Our Irish opinion of visiting the tourist attractions that Gran Canaria, Spain has to offer.
Link to video image montage of our entire Gran Canaria visit:- https://youtu.be/aBT4X2JfNSg
Travellers to Europe have been faced with soaring temperatures in recent days. This coincides with the most popular time of the year to visit Europe, travel industry insiders say that while extreme weather has caused travel disruptions in the past, particularly in countries not set up to withstand it, this extreme heat can also cause heat exhaustion deaths.
“Is the climate crisis already here?, and will it manifest itself everywhere in the Mediterranean with greater disasters in the coming years?.”
It adds credence to the long held theory that travellers at this time of year will in future consider more northerly European holiday destinations into the future.
(This blog is not meant to be critical of Gran Canaria as a future holiday destination)
The over riding influence during our recent 2 week trip to Gran Canaria was the extreme high temperatures we experienced for the entire holiday. We visited during July 2023. The whole of North Africa and Southern Europe experienced an un-seasonal heat wave during this time. Normally, at that time, temperatures would be in the high 20’s centigrade. However, during our trip we experienced temperatures in the high 30’s and even into the low 40’s centigrade.
These extreme temperatures are not really conducive to a comfortable sun holiday. Instead, a northern European holiday maker is advised to stay out of the direct rays of the sun between the hours of 11:00am and 17:00 during the hottest part of each day. Allied to the lack of any cooling winds, the only really comfortable place to spend peak heat hours is in the shade on the beach or alternatively indoors in air conditioning.
Likewise, taking any of the huge variety of tourist trips was not an option for us. However, based on our previous visits to Gran Canaria we can still relate our overall observations of the island experience and make recommendations based on our previous trips to the island.
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain 2023
Gran Canaria is one of the eight volcanic Canary Islands in Spain, it is located off the northwestern coast of Africa, in the Atlantic Ocean. Even though geographically it is closer to Morocco and the African continent, it is part of Spain but not classed as part of the EU.
We have visited Gran Canaria and the other Canary Islands many times during our Irish winters. Generally in the months of September to March, the actual timing depending on the severity of the Irish weather. The climate, during these months, is always temperate and sunny and ideal for a beach style winter break from Ireland.
These trips, to any of the islands of the Canary Islands, would be regarded as a rest and recuperation type holiday with relatively very little activity required.
Our recent trip was for 14 nights, staying in the five star El Greco hotel in Puerto Rico, which is situated on the south west coastline, about a 45 minute transfer from the airport.
We have stayed in the El Greco hotel many times over the years. It is a wonderful hotel, situated right across the road from the beach. We dined out every night in a different restaurant - Italian, French, Chinese, Thai and traditional Spanish cuisine. All our meals were excellent and reasonably priced in comparison to Dublin prices. The hotel typically has a very high concentration of Northern European guests.
Day trips are available to all the tourist spots on the island if a visitor wants to get a sense of this small island within the Canary island group situated on the Eastern edge of the Atlantic almost abutting Africa.
After 14 nights at the 5 star El greco Hotel we flew directly back to the cold and wet of Dublin.
Our Observations from our July 2023 trip:-
- The island of Gran Canaria is very multicultural;
- It is a duty-free island……..part of Spain but not in the EU;
- You need to ware flip flops on the beach when the weather is very hot………..unless you prefer you get your feet burnt;
- The islanders are very accustomed to tourists and tourist interactions and are very friendly;
- If you hire a car, the road infrastructure is good, particularly the main coastal route circumnavigating the majority of the island’s coastline.
- If you visit during the winter months of October to March, be prepared for inflated prices to match Scandinavian tourists’ disposable incomes;
- They have all kinds of restaurants as a result to their multicultural resident and tourist population, and the quality of local cuisine is generally very good;
- Due to the ‘all year round good weather’, foreign property ownership is on the rise;
- If you intend to reside long-term on the island, be sure to reside in a residential area and not a tourist area. The reason for this is two-fold (1) cheaper to reside in residential locations (2) life in a residential area conforms better to a standard working week type life style. Life in a tourist area is generally denoted by tourists burning the candle at both ends, usually noisy;
- The island caters for all tourist budgets from 1 star to 5 star;
- If wheel chair bound the footpaths can be a real challenge, featuring lots of areas of weather destruction to the tile covering and dangerously steep roadside sloping;
- Supermarkets on the island are very well stocked;
- The island has embraced renewable energy production from both wind and solar;
- Travelling from an EU 27 member States country, the Canary Islands are classed as duty-free, as such, perfumes and cigarettes etc are considerably cheaper than those available within the EU.
Things to do while visiting Gran Canaria:-
Visit the unique Maspalomas Dunes
Probably the most beautiful place in the south of the island is the Maspalomas Sand Dunes, covering over 400 hectares. It might be said that the sand arrived here from the Sahara, but that is not true. The sand was deposited during the ice age and the wind created the dunes you see today.
The dune system is one of the most important natural spots in Gran Canaria and it has suffered degradation with a constant loss of sand, mainly due to urban development and human impact. To protect the dunes, Gran Canaria is limiting access to the public. People can still visit the dunes but only via the marked walking paths.
Puerto Rico, where we based ourselves is in the south-west of the island. We stayed in El Greco Hotel, where we had a really lovely two-bedroomed bungalow, nestled in a tropical garden and across the road from the beach, with AC, a small but well fitted-out kitchen, a pool and a poolside jacuzzi. Walk out to the Puerto Rico beach from where a lovely beach promenade will lead you along the cliff face to a man-made bay – Playa Amadores. Take a dip or just chill in the warm sun, then grab something to eat and soak in the energy of the drowning sun.
Visit close by Puerto de Mogan. If you’re here in early summer, everything will be in full bloom. The white houses have colourful edges, which match the endless sea of flowers. The swimming here in the bay and the marina are great and not too crowded.
Stroll around Las Palmas old Town
Las Palmas is the main city in Gran Canaria, and it is the largest city in the Canary Islands. This city, with more than 500 years of history, has a lot to offer. One of the best things to do in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is to stroll around the old town which is divided into two parts: Vegueta and Triana.
Vegueta was the original settlement where life in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria began. In this part of the town, you will find the main historical buildings and museums. Did you know that Christofer Columbus lived here for a short while before heading to America. His home is now a museum, called Casa de Colon, and it is open to the public. The best way to explore Vegueta is to join the walking tour with a local guide.
Triana is the posh side of Las Palmas and it is the shopping Mecca of the region, with its vast array of shops, restaurants and markets.
The most impressive building in Las Palma is the Cathedral of Santa Ana. For a small entrance fee you can go up the bell tower to have a panoramic view of the city. For those who cannot make the stairs, a lift takes you to the top as well. The Cathedral of Santa Ana was the first church on the Canary Islands and it is worth visiting,
Things to do in Las Palmas
Climb the Santa Ana Cathedral for a different perspective of the City;
Visit the Museo Casa de Colón;
Visit the Vegueta and Triana neighbourhoods;
Visit the colourful houses of San Juan from the San Roque neighbourhood;
Relax in the warm sand of Playa Grande beach;
Stroll along the Las Canteras seafront;
Enjoy the sunset from the Mirador de la Cruz;
There are photo opportunities all around Las Palmas.
For the wine lovers
Bodega Señorío de Cabrera is a small hillside vineyard located on the outskirts of Telde on the east side of the island. Be sure to take the tour and tasting, it is well worth a visit.
Sample Delicious Rum at Arehucas Rum Distillery
Located next to the Arucas town, you will find Arehucas Rum Distillery, one of the oldest rum cellars in Europe which has been producing rum since 1884. It started as the sugar factory San Pedro and later became a distillery.
Arehucas Rum Distillery now produces some of the finest rums in Europe and it is worth a visit.
San Pedro, the only coffee plantation in Europe is situated in Finca los Canstanos. Be advised that the opening hours are limited. Be sure to take the tour and tasting, especially if you’re an avid coffee drinker.
A sense of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain 2023
The official currency of Gran Canaria, Spain is the Euro.
If you get an opportunity during your travels in Gran Canaria, hike to the summit of Pico de las Nieves, the highest peak on the island.
Our general experience of the people from Gran Canaria, Spain is that they are very friendly and they all seem to have a particular liking for small children. The taxies are very reasonable and frequent. The shops and the restaurants are all clean, up to date and very inviting. The street sellers were non pushy and in no way intimidating. Once in the hotel itself, El Greco, it could not be faulted for service and the general excellent of the guest experience.
Recommendations for Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain 2023
There is no language barrier, if you speak only English. The vast majority of both young and old Spaniards speak English.
So it lends itself to undertaking trips that can be self directed. The hire cost of a car is very cheap in comparison to Irish prices.
Our must see recommendation for a trip to Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain 2023:-
(1) Our visit to Gran Canaria’s multitude of excellent restaurants is the highlight of our trips there.
(2) Our second choice would a hire car self directed tour the island. The island itself is very small and a complete circumnavigation is eminently possible in one days driving, even allowing form generous stops on the way.
(3) If you are eating out in Puerto Rico, our recommendation is to eat at Fusion Nube restaurant.
“You should travel away from home, to really appreciate the value of what you have at your home, on your return.”
/*************************************************************************
In the spirit of staying abreast of the new emerging generative Artificial Intelligence products, we asked ChatGPT to write a Blog for us about Gran Canaria. For the purpose of comparison, here is the question we posed to ChatGPT and its answer in return.
A Chatgpt AI generated blog text
Our command line question that we posed to ChatGPT:-
AI Query:- write a travel blog on Gran Canaria in the style of https://www.justretired50plus.com
ChatGPT’s answer to our query:-
Title: Exploring Gran Canaria: A Tropical Paradise for Adventurous Souls
Introduction:
Welcome to the vibrant and breathtaking island of Gran Canaria! Nestled in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this enchanting destination offers a world of adventures, picturesque landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you seek golden beaches, dramatic mountains, or bustling towns, Gran Canaria has something for everyone. Join me on an unforgettable journey as we delve into the heart of this captivating island and discover its hidden gems.
Day 1: Embracing the Island's Natural Beauty
Our adventure begins with the exploration of Gran Canaria's natural wonders. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Roque Nublo, a magnificent volcanic rock formation that stands proudly amidst lush forests and breathtaking views. As you hike up to its summit, you'll feel a sense of accomplishment and awe as you take in the panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Afterward, head to Maspalomas, known for its stunning sand dunes and pristine beaches. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, feel the soft sand between your toes, and bask in the warm sunshine. Don't forget to capture the perfect sunset photo as the golden hues paint the sky in a mesmerizing display.
Day 2: Discovering Historic Towns and Charming Villages
Today, let's immerse ourselves in Gran Canaria's rich history and authentic culture. Start by visiting the charming old town of Vegueta in Las Palmas, the island's capital. Wander through its cobbled streets lined with colonial-style houses, visit the impressive Cathedral of Santa Ana, and explore the intriguing museums showcasing the island's past.
For a taste of local life, venture to the picturesque village of Teror. Admire the traditional Canarian architecture, visit the Basilica de la Virgen del Pino, and explore the bustling Sunday market where you can sample delicious local produce and handcrafted souvenirs.
Day 3: Unleashing the Adventurer Within
Gran Canaria is a paradise for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Today, let's embrace our adventurous spirit and explore the island's diverse landscape. Embark on a thrilling off-road jeep safari through the rugged interior, where you'll witness stunning canyons, lush valleys, and hidden villages.
If you're up for a challenge, head to the picturesque village of Tejeda and hike to the summit of Pico de las Nieves, the highest peak on the island. From the top, marvel at the sweeping views of the volcanic terrain, rolling hills, and shimmering coastline that stretch before you.
Day 4: Indulging in Culinary Delights
No travel experience is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Gran Canaria offers a delectable fusion of flavors influenced by its Spanish and African heritage. Start your culinary adventure by sampling the island's traditional dish, papas arrugadas, wrinkled potatoes served with mouthwatering mojo sauces.
For seafood lovers, head to the coastal town of Puerto de Mogán and indulge in a seafood feast at one of the charming waterfront restaurants. Savor the freshest catches of the day while admiring the picturesque harbor views.
Conclusion:
Gran Canaria truly captures the essence of a tropical paradise, combining natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, embarking on exciting outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the island's vibrant culture, Gran Canaria offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. So pack your bags, prepare for new discoveries, and let Gran Canaria's enchantment unfold before you.
/*************************************************************************