About Gran Canaria
While best known for the plentiful resort developments that hug the island’s coastline, outside of the joys of a package holiday, Gran Canaria has much to offer the intrepid traveller. The island's landscape ranges from the green and verdant north of the island through a mountainous interior to the desert-like south. The coastline is interspersed with white sandy beaches and purpose-built holiday resorts but there are well developed trails for hiking and cycling throughout the island with water sports of all kinds available on the coast. Las Palmas, the island’s capital, also boasts a vibrant cultural scene and an active nightlife.
Flights to Gran Canaria from Cork Airport
Things to do here
Casa-Museo de Colón
This museum documents Columbus’ voyages and features exhibits on the Canary Islands’ historical role as a staging post for transatlantic shipping.
Las Palmas
Las Palmas, Spain's seventh largest city, is as busy as you’d expect but the historic centre, though small, is interesting. The city itself has an eclectic mix of locals and tourists and is home to a great variety of excellent bars and restaurants.
Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo
About 9km southwest of Las Palmas, this botanical garden is Spain’s largest covering 27 hectares. It hosts a broad range of flora from across the Canary Islands including many rare and endangered species. The displays are in English and Spanish.
Catedral de Santa Ana
The spiritual heart of Las Palmas, the cathedral was begun in the early 15th century, soon after the Spanish conquest, but took 350 years to complete. You can take a lift to the top of the bell tower for a fantastic view of the city and the…