Gran Canaria, the third largest of the Canary Islands, is located a little over 130 miles from the African coast and remains a Spanish possession. Its capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria with a population of about 800,000 is one of the largest cities in Spain and although the primary language is Spanish many people living and working in the areas most visited by tourists is also fluent in English and German.

A key element in the economy of Gran Canaria is its tourism, which is particularly popular along most of the island’s southern coast where a majority of its resorts are located. There is also a system of highways which encircle the island and goes up into the mountain area, however the easiest way to tour the entire island is to take one of the modern bus tours.

The northern part of the island has a cooler climate than the southern part which because of its large number of beach resorts that offer various types of entertainment and beach activities receives most of the visitors.

One of the better known features on the island is the Maspalomas sand dunes which are a natural protected area and a home for some rare species of lizards, rabbits and plants. Nearby is another recognized attraction which dominates the area, the Faro de Maspalomas, a very tall lighthouse built in 1886.

La Charka, bordering the upmarket locale of El Oasis at the western end of the nature reserve, is of interest to bird watchers as several species of migratory birds on their way to Africa stop for a rest at the remnants of a sea-water lagoon edged with palm trees.

The beach at Playa de San Agustin is smaller with darker volcanic sand and is well protected from the waves. With its gentle slope and traditional ambience, bars, and restaurants all along the beachfront, it is ideal for snorkelling, swimming and other diving activities.

The port at the Municipality of Mogan in lively Puerto Rico which is very hilly and steep, has a horse shoe shaped beach from which many yachts and boat trips come and go. It is also known as Little Venice because of it canals. Playa Taurito on the southwestern side of the island has another tranquil lagoon which neighbors Puerto de Mogan.

Gran Canaria Holidays are amazing for both sun lovers and culture aficionados.