Gran Canaria holidays

Far from a fly-and-flop destination, Gran Canaria is all about getting out there and lapping up the good life. Swim in sun-kissed waters, hike among almond blossoms, soak in volcanic spa pools, climb cloud-topped rocks and feast on seafood fresh off the boat.

An effortless mix of nature, nightlife and doing sweet nothing, Gran Canaria holidays are hard to beat.

Beaches, beaches and yet more beaches

Almost 60 kilometres (37 miles) of Gran Canaria’s 263-kilometre (163-mile) coastline is covered with sand.

Home to a whopping 80-plus beaches, you’ll never be short of a spot to shake out your towel and snooze in the sunshine. Due to the island’s volcanic roots, you’ll find a whole kaleidoscope of sand, ranging from perfectly golden to silvery grey and lightly toasted brown.

Cocktails and cafés in the capital

It’s a serious mistake to think that all-inclusive Gran Canaria holidays are only about the beach.

Stretched across two scenic bays, Las Palmas, the capital of the island, is a buzzy city packed with historic sights, al fresco cafes and trendy tapas bars. With two beautiful urban beaches and a chic marina, it’s a cosmopolitan spot to shop ‘til you drop, splash out on cocktails and sit around in the sunshine.

A cheap 2019 holiday in Gran Canaria is easily filled with things to see and do, but the island’s capital Las Palmas warrants a break all of its own.

A playground for grown-ups

Beyond the bright lights of Las Palmas and the luxury beach resorts, Gran Canaria is a natural playground just begging to be explored.

Nature buffs and hikers will be in seventh heaven at Roque Nublo (Cloud Rock), set within the Gran Canaria Biosphere Reserve and surrounded by fragrant pine forests. This iconic chunk of volcanic material is one of the largest free-standing rocks in the world and, with the aid of a few ropes, you can scramble up to its cloud-swirled summit. It’s guaranteed to add some adrenaline to your Gran Canaria holiday.