Gran Canaria Ferries

Gran Canaria, a volcanic island brimming with adventure, beckons you, intrepid explorer. Prepare to hike through lush forests, scale impressive rock formations, and descend into photogenic canyons. For the thrill-seeker, this island also offers world-class surfing, diving, and paragliding. And when the sun sets, you can explore charming villages and the vibrant capital, ripe with local cuisine and culture. Get ready to discover how every corner of Gran Canaria holds a new surprise.

Arriving at Gran Canaria is convenient and exciting, as the island's primary entry point is Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), located near the eastern coast, nearly 12 miles (19 km) from the capital city, Las Palmas. The airport is well-connected, with numerous flights from major European cities, making it easily accessible for travellers from around the world. Las Palmas can also be reached by sea, with ferries arriving from other Canary Islands and the Spanish mainland, offering a scenic approach for those travelling by water.

Maspalomas: Witness the breathtaking Dunas de Maspalomas, a vast expanse of golden sand dunes that resemble a desert landscape, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a camel ride.

Vegueta, Las Palmas: Wander through the historic heart of Las Palmas, Vegueta, with its charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and the impressive Santa Ana Cathedral.

Pico de las Nieves: Hike to the highest point on the island, Pico de las Nieves, for panoramic views of the entire island, often revealing Tenerife and Mount Teide in the distance on a clear day.

Playa de Las Canteras, Las Palmas: Enjoy the vibrant urban beach of Playa de Las Canteras, known for its calm waters protected by a natural reef, making it ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding.

Puerto Rico: Experience thrilling watersports in Puerto Rico, from jet-skiing and parasailing to deep-sea fishing and boat trips to spot dolphins and whales.

Agaete: Savour fresh seafood in the picturesque fishing village of Agaete, and then take a scenic drive up to Artenara, a stunning mountain village with cave houses and incredible vistas.

Barranco de las Vacas: Embark on an adventurous hike through Barranco de las Vacas, a dramatic and colourful gorge that offers a unique geological spectacle, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Cueva Pintada Museum & Archaeological Park, Gáldar: Delve into the pre-Hispanic history of Gran Canaria at the Cueva Pintada Museum in Gáldar, where you can explore ancient cave dwellings with preserved painted murals.

Finca Los Castaños, Agaete: Take a fascinating tour of Finca Los Castaños, Europe's only coffee plantation, located near Agaete, and indulge in a fresh cup of locally grown coffee.

Destilerías Arehucas, Arucas: Discover the art of rum making at Destilerías Arehucas, one of the oldest and largest rum distilleries in the Canary Islands, offering informative tours and delicious tastings.

Spring (March-May): Perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather. It's an excellent time for hiking, exploring, and enjoying the island's natural beauty.

Summer (June-August): The peak season, with hot temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It’s ideal for beach lovers and those seeking a lively atmosphere. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Autumn (September-November): Another great time to visit, with warm temperatures and fewer crowds. It's especially good for water sports and exploring the island's cultural attractions.

Winter (December-February): The island transforms into a ‘winter sun’ destination, with mild temperatures and occasional rain showers. It's a popular time for golfers and those seeking a quieter escape. The exception is Carnival at the season's end, when the capital comes alive with feathers, floats, and festivities.

Official Language: The official language spoken across Gran Canaria is Spanish. However, due to its popularity as a tourist destination, English, German, and other European languages are also widely understood in many areas.

Currency: Gran Canaria, being part of Spain and the European Union, uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. So, no need for complicated conversions if you're coming from another Eurozone country.

Ancient Inhabitants: Gran Canaria was originally inhabited by the Canarii people, who left behind a fascinating legacy of cave dwellings, intricate rock carvings, and unique cultural traditions. You can delve into their history at archaeological sites like Cueva Pintada.

Colonial History: The island was fiercely resisted by its native inhabitants during the Spanish conquest in the late 15th century. It finally became part of the Crown of Castile in 1483, significantly influencing trade routes between Europe and the Americas.

Nearest Neighbours: Gran Canaria is one of the central Canary Islands. Its closest island neighbours are Tenerife to the west and Fuerteventura to the east, both easily accessible by ferry.

Not the Largest Island: While often feeling expansive due to its diverse landscapes, Gran Canaria is actually not the largest of the Canary Islands. That title belongs to its western neighbour, Tenerife.

Unique Coffee Production: Believe it or not, Gran Canaria is home to the only coffee plantation in Europe. Finca Los Castaños, located near Agaete, offers a unique opportunity to see coffee growing and taste local brews.

Carnival Extravaganza: One of the most vibrant cultural traditions in Gran Canaria is its spectacular Carnival. These celebrations are held annually, especially in Las Palmas and Maspalomas, renowned for their dazzling parades, flamboyant costumes, and lively street parties.

Filming Location: Despite the urban legend, the enormous dunes in Maspalomas weren't used as a film set in the original Star Wars movies. However, the 1962 fantasy Ulysses Against Hercules was shot here. The sixth instalment of the Fast and Furious franchise was also filmed in Gran Canaria, along with the 2014 Ridley Scott biblical epic, Exodus.

Notable Births: Gran Canaria has produced some famous figures, including the renowned Spanish novelist Benito Pérez Galdós, who was born in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

Gran Canaria spans approximately 602 sq mi (1,560 km²), making it the third largest island in the Canary archipelago. Its diverse landscape offers a variety of transportation options, from public buses operated by Global to rental cars and taxis. The compact nature of the island allows travellers to enjoy both mountain and beach experiences in a single day.