Just off the coast of Africa and the third largest island in the Canary Islands chain, Gran Canaria is not far from better known Tenerife. Though it is the third largest of the islands, Gran Canaria is the most populated. But don't let that discourage you from choosing it as your vacation getaway. Of the island's 230 kilometers of coastline, over 60 consist of exquisite beaches.
Tourism on the island has been increasing over the last few years - large numbers of holidaymakers from the Spanish mainland return year after year. The Germans and Swiss make up a big percentage of the tourist population, with the British and Irish not far behind. It's a terrific family holiday destination with something for everyone to enjoy.
The beaches are noted for their white sand and crystal clear waters. Especially notable are the massive Maspalomas beach with its seaside sand dunes and the marvelous hidden beach of Guigui. Las Canteras beach is located in the capital of Las Palmas and tends to be much livelier, though still family friendly.
Some tourists prefer to stay put at their favourite beach, while the more adventuresome will seek out a variety of beaches during their stay. Either way the number of activities and water sports available keeps everyone happy and relaxed. It's worth remembering that because of the great all year round weather in Gran Canaria holidaymakers can enjoy the beautiful beaches whatever month they year around.
Accommodation can be found near almost every beach on the island. Whether your taste runs to luxury hotels or a self catering apartment or villa, you will find what you are looking for.
Consider the more rustic accommodation too. They can range from quaint country houses to 18th century estates to colonial mansions and should not be overlooked. They are accentuated by the natural settings, whether on high cliffs or in the middle of a forest preserve with a panoramic view, these off-the-beaten-track facilities offer unforgettable experiences.
For the sports minded holidaymaker, many of the hotels in Gran Canaria offer a variety of sports activities, including golf, tennis, paddling, sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving.
If you have a hankering for something a little less genteel and a bit more risky, go with the pros and enjoy gliding, paragliding, hang gliding and solo rock climbing. The instructors are experts, and while they take most of the risk out of these sports, it will definitely feel adventuresome and probably leave you wanting another go around defying gravity.
In recent years Gran Canaria has become a mecca for sports teams seeking exactly the kind of climate the island supports. As a result it is not unusual to see professional sports teams and sports clubs training their members for competitions. Many national, international and regional events are held on the island each year. If you just like to watch sports, Gran Canaria also hosts a number of spectator sports including soccer, basketball and racing.
If golf is your thing, you can play literally year around. Gran Canaria's golf history goes all the way back to 1891 when its first golf course was opened. It was built in what is now the central zone of the capital city of Las Palmas. In 1957 the course was relocated to Bandama, but still retains the name of Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas. Gran Canaria really is a pioneer when it comes to golf and can claim to have introduced the sport to Spain. Today there are numerous golf courses and endless sunny days to enjoy them for holidaymakers.
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Gran Canaria holidays and flights information is available with yourgrancanaria.net who include airlines offering cheap flight to Gran Canaria deals for this summer. The travel site also has other cheap holidays in Gran Canaria information.
