Places to see in Gran Canaria

If you can tear yourself away from the beach, pool or even sunlounger, Gran Canaria has so much to see; it's not known as a continent in miniature for nothing.

Most people will arrive at the airport and travel south to resorts such as Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés and Meloneras, for fun in the sun. This last resort is fast becoming the fashionable centre of Gran Canaria, attracting visitors who aspire to a little more than just sun and beaches on a holiday. In addition to luxurious accommodation, beautiful surroundings, casinos, an 18-hole golf course and fabulous restaurants, this chic resort offers a host of designer shops and perfume shops selling all the best known makes at unbeatable prices. The resort’s beachside promenade is a beautiful spot for a walk along the ocean-front and a lively place for an evening of good food, live music and very trendy company. Travelling north can be just as rewarding, however, not least because of the cosmopolitan delights offered by the capital city Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

Also worth visiting in the north are the towns of Arucas and Gáldar. Arucas has perhaps the prettiest town centre on the whole of Gran Canaria, with the Gaudiesque church of San Juan Bautista being an excellent example of its classic architecture. Gáldar apart from its all-round loveliness, boasts the ideal square - Plaza de Santiago. Every town should have one.

Further west lies Agaete and its harbour, Puerto de las Nieves. Handy for catching a ferry over to Tenerife, there are also some excellent unspoilt beaches to enjoy along with a good selection of restaurants serving simple and ever so delicious, fresh fish dishes.

The Valle de Agaete is a delight to drive through on your way to San Nicolás de Tolentino - although the road does get quite windy.

Those who can rise above carsickness will enjoy some stunning vistas as the road heads southwards to the pleasant resorts of Puerto Rico and Mogán - perfect for families with young children or for the older traveller. Here, you can unwind in peace without the pulsating nightlife on offer at the other holiday destinations in the south.