Like a miniature continent Gran Canaria has a diverse landscape, ranging from the vast rolling sand dunes at Maspalomas, to a lush sub- tropical interior of deep ravines; banana plantations, majestic rocky slopes that give way to beautiful pine forests and breathtaking sea cliffs that are home to rare species of birds.
It's an island where you can still come across sleepy villages like Fataga where cobbled streets and white washed houses remain largely untouched by tourism. Or be amazed by the valley of a thousand palms. At the islands centre is the beautiful volcanic peak of Pozo de las Nieves, which is snow capped all year round. Along the coast you'll find quiet fishing villages, sizzling beaches, lively resorts and the cosmopolitan capital of Las Palmas which is a mecca for bargain hunters, best buys are leather, wickerwork and pottery.
The south of the island is a playground of modern resorts with sparkling blue sea and glorious golden beaches, and an endless choice of restaurants, bars, and night-clubs. Gran Canaria's coast has several good marinas at Las Palmas, Puerto Rico and Puerto Mogan. There are haul-out facilities at all of them as well as at the commercial harbour Arguineguin.