Gran Canaria’s natural environment offers up plenty of unique and impressive locales. The self-reported all-time favourite destination of tourists is the dunes of Maspalomas: THE symbol of the island.

Sections of the dunes have been designated as natural conservation areas and are no longer passable. A number can still be summited without special permission, however, and yield a fantastic view of the sea from the "top".

The Guayadeque ravine on Gran Canaria’s southeastern side is home to a historic cave dwelling and represents a real treasure trove for the reclamation of island history, the site for the discovery of many relicts and even mummies from pre-Hispanic times.

In the heart of the island lies Roque Nublo in impressive surroundings with artistic rock formations and a fascinating view into the craggy landscape. Even a brief hike across this fleck of earth promises unforgettable vistas and fairy-tale memories.

In the very middle of Gran Canaria’s colourful capital, Las Palmas, stretches the lively "Playa de las Canteras" city beach, an El Dorado for divers and surfers.

Las Palmas’ lively inner city is always open to curious visitors. Spain’s seventh largest city offers the most diverse range of cultural sites, such as the Columbus House, which revives the journey and island stay of Christopher Columbus. Shopaholics will also discover a wealth of opportunity in Las Palmas! In addition to numerous shopping centres and promenades, there are also local markets selling traditional products.

The idyllic harbour city of Puerto de Mogán nestles into the rocky coastline on the island’s southern section. From here, you can experience absolutely beguiling views of the southern shoreline from a charter boat - you might even discover the local dolphin or whale population.

Puerto de las Nieves is a small fishing village in the northwest offering visitors an array of national culinary delights. There is also a truly lovely beach, saltwater pools with crystal clear water, and a unique underwater landscape.

The village of Dorf on the island’s north side is a fascinating locale with historic charm and religious significance: from here, the holy virgin, or "Virgen del Pino", protects the island, its inhabitants, and, of course, its visitors!

Gran Canaria is the place for a happening nightlife! Choose from a number of dance clubs, like those in the capital, open-air festivals, or the casino: no one’s come up short for fun on Gran Canaria. La Vegueta, the capital’s historic quarter, is absolutely worth an evening’s visit. There are a host of offerings to suit every taste.

The island’s largest religious festival is the annual "Fiesta de Nuestra Senora del Pino", in Teror, which honours the holy virgin. Each community brings a particular kind of offering to show respect for the patron saint.

Experience historic local culture in Gáldar’s "Cueva Pintada" museum and archaeological park, in the northern section of Gran Canaria - the beginning of a compelling journey into the island’s past.

Gran Canaria is also a real paradise for golfers. It was recognized by the International Golf Travel Market in 2013, distinguishing it as the best European golf destination! The year-round mild climate makes for the best conditions for bogeying the ball with iron on one of the 9 golf courses.

Gran Canaria has a heart for hikers, too! There is a huge selection of extended outings in gorgeous natural landscapes, whether as a group or solo hike. A particularly worthwhile hike is on the northern half of the island, leading from San Pedro to Tamadaba. It takes about 2.5 hours and covers 8.5 kilometres. You’ll summit the "Camino de los Romeros" pilgrimmage path, pass a romantic waterfall, enjoy a long view of the valley of Agaete, and even wonder up close at the caves of Gran Canaria’s ancient inhabitants.