Gran Canaria has so much to explore beyond its glorious beaches
WITH golden beaches and year-round sunshine, Gran Canaria is a classic fly-and-flop destination.
And yet its capital, away from the beaches in the south, has plenty to offer those looking for a great-value city break.
Christopher Columbus stopped here on his way to America in 1492.
These days it’s a working city with an atmospheric historic quarter, thriving port and lively shopping districts.
WHY SHOULD I GO?
There’s not just one but five beaches in the city. Las Canteras has more than three miles of golden sand on the western side of the city.
El Confital, to the north, is wilder, rugged and famous for surfing. On the other side is Las Alcaravaneras, in front of the port, ideal for sunbathing and sports.
To the south are La Laja and San Cristobal, both much quieter.
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ARE THESE STREETS MADE FOR WALKING?
The pedestrianised cobbled streets of the historical quarter of Vegueta are lined with traditional colonial buildings, complete with flower-filled balconies.
At its heart is the Cathedral of Santa Ana, the first church in the Canaries, dating from 1500.
Climb to the top of the tower for an extensive view over the city.
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In the north of the city, there’s a wooden walkway from La Puntilla to the Isleta Peninsula, now a protected wild landscape.
After a dip in the sea at El Confital, take a trail upwards to the tiny village of Las Coloradas, just below the highest mountain in Las Palmas.
A couple of restaurants here offer good local food and great views of the city.
ANYTHING FOR BUCKET LIST?
Just behind the cathedral is the Casa de Colón, where Columbus was received by the governor before setting off on his voyage.
The impressive exterior has imposing wooden balconies and an ornate entrance.
Inside is a museum dedicated to Columbus’ life and travels featuring a crucifix from his first voyage.
Just 20 minutes’ drive from the city is an extinct volcanic crater, the Caldera de Bandama, the site of the last eruption on the island over 2,000 years ago.
It’s 200m deep and 1,000m wide. Visit at dawn when the caldera is full of mist and lava is glowing.
WHERE SHOULD I EAT?
Vegueta and Triana are the places where locals go to eat tapas.
Stroll through the area, stopping for wine and tapas wherever you fancy.
In the north of the city, the Mercado del Puerto has an excellent mix of tapas bars and food stalls.
Explore the streets behind the beachfront restaurants where cafes and bars offer remarkably good value meals.
I FANCY A DRINK
Every street has a neighbourhood bar, with the Vegueta area having the best selection.
You’re more likely to find craft beers and designer cocktails in the north of the city.
The island is home to nearly 40 different grape varieties, with 24 only found here.
The Gran Canaria Wine Route features ten wineries as well as restaurants and hotels.
Within easy reach of the city are Hoyos de Bandama and the smaller Señorío de Cabrera.
Both offer tastings with a selection of local cheese and sausage.
North of the city, in Arucas, rum has been produced for over a hundred years.
Guided 45-minute tours of the Arehucas Distillery include a tasting of rums and liqueurs.
WHERE SHOULD I STAY?
The classy Hotel Santa Catalina, built in 1890, has hosted royalty, film stars and presidents.
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Close to the historic centre and Las Canteras beach, it’s now been completely refurbished and Brad Pitt was a recent guest.
Come for a sundowner on the roof by the pool, or for dinner in one of its stylish restaurants.
GO: Las Palmas
GETTING THERE: Jet2, Ryanair, easyJet and Tui fly direct to Gran Canaria from London and many regional airports.
Prices in October start from £67 return. See .
STAYING THERE: Rooms at the Hotel Santa Catalina from £166 per night.
See .
Or try the Lumm Hotel from £83 per night. See lummhotel.com. Near the historic quarter, the Occidental Las Palmas has rooms from £83.
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