Gran Canaria The Canaries may be Spanish but they're a long way from Spain.
A thousand miles from Madrid and cast adrift in the Atlantic, they're actually closer to the coast of Africa, and like
Africa, are bathed in hot, hot sunshine. Dubbed the 'islands of eternal spring', temperatures in the Canaries rarely
fall below 20c in the winter and 25c in the summer. So regardless of season, you're pretty much guaranteed the sun will
have his hat on. As for the islands themselves, you're probably familiar with Gran Canaria's reputation as a land
of fun in the sun. Famed for its golden sand dunes and tropical forests, getaways to Gran Canaria have definitely got that
exotic edge. From camel riding in the desert to plunging down ravines, it's all about about adventure here, and if you're
after some nightlife and duty-free shopping, there's bundles of that on tap too.
Playa Amadores Cool crushed shells give this quiet resort's beach a unique flavour, with a wooden promenade of beach bars and restaurants
lining the curved shore. A really simple holiday setting, with little to do but relax and let the world go by at its own pace.
Playa Amodores is only a short drive away from the more lively Puerto Rico. Backed by dramatic mountains, the main attraction
in Playa Amadores is the large sweeping man-made beach. The prevailing mood in this resort is one of relaxation.
Playa del Ingles Back in the 1950's a local businessman, Alejandro del Castillo dreamt of a purpose
built tourist resort, soon, Playa del Ingles was born and it has bloomed into two square miles of accommodations, bars, restaurants
and nightlife. Today, Playa del Ingles is a popular holiday destination with everything you need for a fun, sun-soaked holiday.
The 7km beach stretches towards the stunning sand dunes of Maspalomas and has everything needed for an adrenalin filled rush
of watersports. Dull moments and Playa del Ingles simply don't go together, that's because, as Gran Canaria's
largest resort, this big, built-up town is so choc-a-bloc with amusements and diversions it's difficult to know where
to start.
Puerto Rico Holidays don't come more fun-packed or sun-packed than this. Set
in a narrow rocky valley, with apartments and hotels terraced up its steep sides, Puerto Rico is a family favourite that's
filled with things to do, and its position on Gran Canaria's south-west coast means it basks in superb sunshine too. With
calm waters and cashmere soft sands, you'd never guess the resort's popular beach was man-made. Get here early to
grab a prize spot, or head for the two public swimming pools surrounded by sub-tropical gardens, just behind the sands.
