Gran Canaria is something of a dream destination for families. The island’s sense of adventure appeals to all ages with activities stretching from the rugged interior landscape, to the golden swathes of sand and cobalt waters on the island’s fringes. So, if you’re seeking more than poolside relaxation this year, fulfil your wanderlust on the island of Gran Canaria.
Surrounded on all sides by the vast Atlantic Ocean, Gran Canaria’s seafaring adventures rival anywhere on earth. Set out for a day of dolphin and whale watching on board one of the many wildlife spotting excursions and get ready to feel your pulse quicken at the sight of a tail fin or as you catch glimpse of a breaching whale. If you prefer your time at sea to be a little more leisurely, speak to your Travel Counsellor about arranging a private yacht trip with champagne on board for the adults.
The seabed surrounding the volcanic island is a treasure trove of peculiar marine life: puffer fish, sea horses, octopus and trumpet fish amongst countless other species. Get beneath the surface and explore at sites suitable for a range of abilities from total novices to experienced divers. Whether you choose to snorkel or scuba dive, the crystal-clear waters allow for excellent visibility. In Anfi, you can even walk beneath the surface in with the help of an underwater breathing helmet, allowing you to get up close the abundant marine life.
Whether you like your beach days to be laidback and relaxed, or packed full of excitement, you’ll find a sandy spot that matches your idea of heaven. Maspalomas beach with its spectacular dunes makes for an amazing day of adventure. Beaches like Playa del Inglés, Puerto Rico, Anfi and Amadores play host to all manner of water sports to entertain the whole family. Take the active option and head out on a kayak to create your own little tour of the coast, or soar up into the skies, parasailing behind a speed boat to get some of the best views of the island.
Puerto Mogán Beach is a great spot to visit if you’re looking to unwind a little. Away from crowds, the beach has much more of a local feel and is well-suited to families.
Widely referred to as a ‘Continent in miniature’, Gran Canaria packs a lot into its relatively diminutive land mass. Almost half of its area is included in the Biosphere Reserve, which protects the natural diversity of microclimates and landscapes. Head out on a day’s hike and you can pass through fragrant pine forest, meadows of wildflowers, some of which are endemic to the Canaries, and arid mountain slopes with an otherworldly aesthetic. Set a check list of animals to spot on your journey starting with the giant lizard and the blue chaffinch and see how many you can tick off.
As night falls, you’ll see the blue skies of day become an endless blanket of stars. Declared a Starlight Tourist Destination, Gran Canaria hosts a network of observation points where visitor and locals alike head to for getting the best views of this awe-inspiring spectacle. All of the stars of the Northern hemisphere can be seen from the island year-round, as can 80% of those from the Southern Hemisphere. We recommend checking out the views from Degollada de las Yeguas.
Across the 1,100 archaeological sites documented across Gran Canaria, you’ll find a window into the island’s ancient past and the indigenous population that inhabited it before Spanish influence. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the boundaries of the Gran Canaria Risco Caído and Sacred Mountains Cultural Landscape are home to over a thousand cave etchings depicting symbols of fertility. Elsewhere in the island, there are over one hundred Cultural Interest Sites for you to visit, each bearing its own story of how it helped forge Gran Canaria’s culture.
This seven night river cruise through Central Europe connects some of the continent's most historic cities in one well paced route. Sailing on the five star MS Riviera Radiance from Budapest through Slovakia and Austria, with guided tours included at every stop, full board dining and a drinks package, it is one of the most relaxed and rewarding ways to see this part of the world.
This fourteen night fly and drive takes a family of four from Vancouver on the Pacific coast through the heart of the Canadian Rockies to Banff. With flights from Dublin, 14 days car hire and a wildlife trip in Jasper included, the route is built to show you the best of British Columbia and Alberta, with enough time at each stop to actually enjoy it.
Five nights in New England at Halloween, split between Boston and the town that made the season famous. This trip is built for families who want something different, a mix of history, ghost tours, witch trial stories and autumn atmosphere, with car hire included and everything within easy reach. Late October is the perfect time to be here.
