Great Escapes To Gran Canaria: Experience Volcanic Peaks, Golden Beaches & Island Diversity
Step into a sun-drenched Atlantic island of remarkable contrasts, where dramatic volcanic mountains, UNESCO-protected landscapes, lush valleys, and golden beaches sit just a short journey apart. Gran Canaria offers an extraordinary variety of diverse landscapes, from windswept dunes and pine forests to coastal coves and highland villages, all waiting to be explored at an easy, unhurried pace.
With direct flights from most of the UK’s regional airports, the island is effortlessly accessible for a short break or longer escape, bringing year-round sunshine, striking scenery, and a rich blend of nature, culture, and coastal living within easy reach.
Find everything you need to start planning your next getaway!:
Swim In Agaete’s Volcanic Pools At Adult-Only 4* Occidental Roca Negra Holiday With On The Beach
Get To The Stars At Cruz De Tejeda At 4* Parador Cruz De Tejeda With Loveholidays
Enjoy pretty Puerto de Mogán Holiday At Radisson Blu Gran Canaria with easyJet Holidays
Discover Palmas de Gran Canaria – The Stunning Capital Beach At The Gorgeous 5* Occidental Las Canteras With Jet2holidays
Stylish Meloneras Holiday At 5* RIU Meloneras With TUI
Discover A Selection Of Gran Canaria Holidays From Our ABTA/ATOL Protected Partners
4* Parador Cruz De Tejeda
Nestled high in the mountains of Tejeda, Parador de Cruz de Tejeda is a tranquil spa retreat offering panoramic views, refined comfort, and easy access to dramatic volcanic landscapes and scenic hiking routes.
7 Nights Room Only
From £449pp
Including flights
Operated by loveholidays
- Spectacular mountain setting in the heart of Gran Canaria, offering panoramic views across volcanic landscapes and deep ravines
- Peaceful 4-star spa retreat ideal for relaxation, with a calm, adults-focused atmosphere perfect for couples
- Comprehensive wellness facilities including sauna, steam bath, Jacuzzi, hammam, and a range of indulgent spa treatments
- Comfortable, contemporary rooms equipped with modern amenities and designed as a restful base after days exploring the highlands
- On-site restaurant serving buffet-style dining alongside a café and bar for relaxed meals and evening drinks with a view
- Excellent location for nature and hiking, close to viewpoints and trails including access to iconic inland landmarks like Roque Nublo
- 7 nights stay at 4* Parador de Cruz de Tejeda
- Double Standard Room
- Room Only (Bed & Breakfast, Half Board and Full Board available at a supplement)
- FREE Wi-Fi
- Return flights
- ATOL protected
4* Occidental Roca Negra
Perched above the rugged coastline on the edge of Agaete, Occidental Roca Negra is an adults-only coastal retreat with striking sea views, renovated rooms, a tranquil spa, and a rooftop bar ideal for relaxed, romantic stays.
7 Nights From £500pp
Including flights
Operated by On The Beach
- Stunning clifftop location in Agaete with dramatic views over the rugged Atlantic coastline and volcanic scenery
- Adults-only atmosphere offering a peaceful, relaxed retreat ideal for couples seeking tranquillity by the sea
- Recently renovated bright, contemporary rooms designed for comfort and a calm coastal aesthetic
- Tranquil spa facilities including wellness treatments and relaxation spaces to unwind after days exploring the island
- Rooftop bar with panoramic ocean views, perfect for sunset drinks in a serene and sophisticated setting
- 7 nights stay at 4* Occidental Roca Negra
- Classic Room
- Bed & Breakfast
- Return flights
- ABTA & ATOL protected
5* Radisson Blu Resort
Located beside the ocean in Arguineguín, Radisson Blu Resort Gran Canaria offers spacious suites, infinity pools, refined dining, and a relaxed yet contemporary base close to beaches and coastal walks.
7 Nights Bed & Breakfast
From £979pp
Including flights
Operated by easyJet holidays
- Set beside the ocean in Arguineguín, the resort enjoys a peaceful beachfront setting with easy access to nearby coves and coastal walks
- Spacious, contemporary suites feature large terraces and sea views, creating a stylish and comfortable base for longer, relaxed stays
- Multiple infinity pools overlook the Atlantic, offering a calm, uncrowded atmosphere ideal for unwinding in the sun
- A selection of refined restaurants and bars serve international cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and relaxed dining
- A modern fitness centre and wellness facilities, including spa treatments and sports courts, provide space to stay active or fully unwind
- 7 nights stay at 5* Radisson Blu Resort Gran Canaria
- Standard Double Room with Sea View
- Bed & Breakfast
- FREE Wi-Fi
- Transfers
- Return flights
- ABTA & ATOL protected
5* Santa Catalina A Royal Hideaway Hotel
Overlooking lush Doramas Park in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel blends historic elegance with contemporary luxury, Michelin-starred dining, a rooftop infinity pool, and indulgent wellness experiences.
7 Nights Room Only
From £1,037pp
Including flights
Operated by Jet2holidays
- Elegant 19th-century landmark overlooking the lush gardens of Doramas Park in the heart of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- Refined rooms and suites blend timeless architecture with contemporary luxury, creating a sophisticated city retreat
- Rooftop infinity pool and wellness spa provide a tranquil escape with elevated views across the city and coastline
- Exceptional dining experiences include two Michelin-starred restaurants alongside stylish spaces for relaxed drinks and fine cuisine
- Ideally positioned close to the marina, cultural attractions, boutiques, and the vibrant atmosphere of Gran Canaria’s capital
- 7 nights stay at 5* Santa Catalina A Royal Hideaway Hotel
- Deluxe Room
- Room Only
- FREE Wi-Fi
- Private transfers
- Return flights
- ABTA & ATOL protected
5* Riu Palace Meloneras
Positioned within lush seafront gardens in elegant Meloneras, Riu Palace Meloneras combines contemporary style with twin pools, ocean-view terraces, refined dining, and a relaxed atmosphere, just a short stroll from Maspalomas Beach and its iconic rolling dunes.
7 Nights Half Board
From £1,060pp
Including flights
Operated by TUI
- Set on the seafront in elegant Meloneras, the hotel enjoys direct access to a scenic promenade and is just a short stroll from Maspalomas Beach
- Two expansive pools are nestled within beautifully landscaped gardens, creating a tranquil setting for sun-soaked days and ocean-view relaxation
- Contemporary rooms are styled in soothing tones, offering a refined and comfortable retreat with a distinctly modern feel
- A choice of buffet and à la carte dining is complemented by stylish bars, perfect for relaxed evenings and leisurely meals
- A well-equipped gym and indulgent spa facilities provide space to unwind, recharge, and maintain your wellness routine throughout your stay
- 7 nights stay at 5* Riu Palace Meloneras
- Twin Room with Balcony or Terrace
- Half Board
- FREE Wi-Fi
- Transfers
- Return flights
- ABTA & ATOL protected
Discover the Many Faces of Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is well known for gorgeous, golden sand beaches. But it offers far more than its iconic southern coastline. Beyond its resort shores lies a striking variety of landscapes and atmospheres. From the cultural energy of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and the dramatic mountain heart of Caldera de Tejeda – declared a World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, to the rugged northwest coast of Agaete and San Nicolas. Each region reveals a different rhythm of island life, all within easy reach.
Meloneras (South)
Set along a sun-drenched coastline, Meloneras offers Gran Canaria at its most polished. Stroll the elegant promenade, tee off beside the ocean, or relax in world-class resorts. Moments from the sweeping Maspalomas Dunes, it’s a seamless blend of natural beauty, indulgence, and contemporary coastal sophistication.
Puerto de Mogán (South West)
Tucked between rugged cliffs and a tranquil marina, Puerto de Mogán is one of Gran Canaria’s most picturesque enclaves. Wander flower-lined canals, dine waterside, or unwind on its golden beach. With boutique charm, sailing excursions, and a slower pace of life, it’s a refined escape blending coastal beauty with understated elegance.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (North East)
A vibrant coastal capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria pairs cultural depth with urban beach life. Wander the historic streets of Vegueta, browse galleries and boutiques, or relax along the golden sweep of Las Canteras Beach. It’s an effortlessly stylish blend of city energy, heritage, and oceanfront living.
Agaete (North West)
Framed by volcanic cliffs and the Atlantic, Agaete offers a wilder, more authentic side of Gran Canaria. Swim in natural rock pools, savour fresh seafood by the harbour, or explore lush valleys inland. With its laid-back rhythm and untamed scenery, it’s a refreshing counterpoint to the island’s southern shores.
Cruz de Tejeda (Centre/Summit)
High in the island’s mountainous heart, Cruz de Tejeda reveals a dramatic landscape of deep ravines and pine-clad peaks. Follow panoramic trails, discover traditional villages, or pause at scenic viewpoints above a sea of clouds. It’s a striking contrast to the coast, where nature, heritage, and tranquillity take centre stage.
Do Something Different In Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is an island best discovered through contrast — from volcanic peaks and tranquil villages to golden beaches and Atlantic adventures. Whether exploring at your own pace or seeking moments of quiet discovery, these experiences reveal the island’s natural beauty, cultural depth, and effortless sense of escape.
Fun Days Out For The Family
From immersive wildlife parks to high-energy attractions, Gran Canaria offers a playful mix of discovery and adrenaline. Dive beneath the ocean, encounter exotic species, or embrace full-throttle fun—each park reveals a different side of the island, blending imagination, nature, and entertainment in memorable, often unexpected ways.
Adventures that surprise, delight, and entertain:
- Poema del Mar Aquarium – A striking oceanarium showcasing Atlantic and global marine life through vast panoramic tanks
- Palmitos Park – Lush botanical gardens with birds of prey, parrots, and exotic wildlife
- Aqualand Maspalomas – The island’s largest waterpark, with high-speed slides, wave pools, and family-friendly attractions
- Holiday World Maspalomas – A lively leisure complex with rides, bowling, dining, and evening entertainment
- Submarine Adventure – Descend beneath the waves on a real submarine to explore underwater landscapes
- Angry Birds Activity Park – A colourful outdoor playground inspired by the iconic game
- Sioux City Park – Step into a Wild West film set with live shows and cowboy theatrics
- Hangar 37 – A large-scale airsoft arena offering immersive, tactical gameplay experiences
Sun, Sand & Iconic Shores
From sweeping golden dunes to calm coves and vibrant city beaches, Gran Canaria offers an extraordinary coastline of contrasts. The island’s beaches range from lively resort hubs to tranquil bays and urban stretches, each shaped by Atlantic light, volcanic landscapes, and a year-round warm climate ideal for relaxation or exploration.
Coastal escapes where golden sands, calm waters, and vibrant promenades meet the Atlantic’s endless horizon:
- Maspalomas Beach – The island’s most iconic stretch, framed by vast rolling dunes and open Atlantic sands
- Playa del Inglés – A vibrant, energetic resort with nightlife, water sports, and endless golden shoreline
- Las Canteras Beach – A stunning urban beach with calm waters, surf breaks, and a lively promenade
- Meloneras – Polished and sophisticated, backed by luxury resorts and an elegant seafront walk
- Amadores Beach – A sheltered, crescent-shaped bay with clear turquoise waters and soft sands
- Puerto Rico Beach – A family-friendly resort beach with calm waters and marina views
- San Agustín Beach – A quieter, relaxed escape ideal for slower-paced seaside days
- Puerto de Mogán Beach – A picturesque small bay set beside a charming harbour and canals
Nature, Landscapes & Island Wilderness
From volcanic peaks and ancient forests to desert dunes and ocean cliffs, Gran Canaria reveals a remarkable diversity of natural landscapes. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island is a living mosaic of ecosystems, where dramatic viewpoints, star-filled skies, and tranquil gardens create a constant sense of discovery and space to breathe.
Moments shaped by light, landscape, and stillness:
- UNESCO Biosphere Reserve – Nearly half of Gran Canaria is protected, showcasing extraordinarily diverse landscapes from volcanic summits and pine forests to ravines, cliffs, and coastal dunes
- Roque Nublo – One of the island’s most iconic viewpoints, rising 1,813 metres above sea level amid dramatic volcanic terrain and sweeping cloudscapes
- Dark Sky Experience – Tejeda & highlands – A certified Starlight Foundation destination, clear mountain air reveals exceptional stargazing under some of the clearest skies in Europe
- Botanical Garden “Jardín Canario” – Spain’s biggest botanical garden. A tranquil showcase of endemic flora from Macaronesia set within lush landscaped grounds
- Parador de Cruz de Tejeda – A unique mountain retreat offering immersive stays surrounded by rugged peaks and panoramic views
- Tejeda – A picturesque village nestled in volcanic scenery, offering direct access to hiking trails and dramatic viewpoints
Active Escapes, Sea & Mountain Adventure
From Atlantic swells and coastal winds to rugged volcanic trails, Gran Canaria is a natural playground for year-round activity. With diverse terrain and reliable conditions, the island invites both thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore by sea, shore, and summit—always framed by striking natural scenery and open horizons.
Energy, movement, and adventure in every direction:
- Surfing – Atlantic coast breaks – Consistent waves along the north and west coasts offer ideal conditions for beginners and experienced surfers alike
- Windsurfing & Kitesurfing – Pozo Izquierdo & coastlines – World-class winds create some of Europe’s most reliable spots for wind and kite sports
- Paddle Surfing – Calm bays & beaches – Glide across sheltered waters in places like Amadores and Puerto de Mogán
- Deep Sea Diving – Atlantic underwater landscapes – Explore volcanic reefs, wrecks, and marine life beneath clear Atlantic waters
- Hiking – Inland trails & volcanic peaks – Traverse dramatic routes through ravines, pine forests, and high-altitude viewpoints
- Mountain Biking – Rugged island terrain – Ride challenging trails across valleys, ridges, and forested mountain paths
- Sports Fishing – Offshore Atlantic waters – Head into deep waters for big-game fishing, from tuna to marlin, in rich Atlantic currents
Gran Canaria, An Unscripted Island
