Gran Canaria
Part of Spain’s Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is known as a “continent in miniature” thanks to its incredibly diverse landscapes – from golden beaches and rolling sand dunes to dramatic mountains and lush pine forests. With year-round sunshine, charming seaside towns, and a laid-back island atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.
The south of the island is home to popular resorts like Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, where you’ll find lively promenades, beachfront dining, and family-friendly entertainment. Meanwhile, the north and interior offer traditional villages, hiking trails, and cultural sights, including the historic quarter of Vegueta in Las Palmas. Whether you're sunbathing by the sea, exploring volcanic landscapes, or sampling Canarian cuisine, Gran Canaria promises something for every kind of traveller.
Top Things to Do in Gran Canaria:
- Stroll through the Maspalomas Dunes and visit its historic lighthouse
- Relax on the beaches of Playa del Inglés, Amadores, or Puerto Rico
- Wander the cobbled streets of Vegueta, Las Palmas’ historic old town
- Hike to Roque Nublo, the island’s iconic volcanic rock formation
- Enjoy fresh seafood and tapas at a seafront restaurant
- Take a boat trip for dolphin watching or to explore the coast
5* Maspalomas & Tabaiba Princess
In Maspalomas, Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
The Maspalomas & Tabaiba Princess cues up everything from a variety of eateries to a children's splash zone.
This place is two hotels merged into one, which means you get double the facilities. There are a couple of pools to pick from including an adults-only number, and a wide choice of restaurants and bars. You can pick up drinks poolside or in a theatre bar, and the dinner menus range from Italian to Asian.
There's an exotic feel to the main pool area, thanks to over-water bridges, thatched canopies and waterside palms. Gran Canaria's real-life natural highlight, the Maspalomas Dunes, are just a few minutes' drive away, too.
Rooms here are kitted out with Wi-Fi, a flatscreen TV with satellite channels, air-con, toiletries and a hairdryer. The rooms also come with a mini-cooler- just so you're aware, drinks are not provided. Kettles* can be hired at an extra charge.
The Maspalomas & Tabaiba Princess has a cluster of exotic outdoor pools. If you opt for All Inclusive, the restaurant and bar count comes to 10, with themed eateries, pool bars and a theatre-style bar in the line-up. Little ones have a splash zone, and there's a hotel-run kids' club for daytime games. The gym and spa cover workouts and wind downs, respectively.
Maspalomas beach is one of Gran Canaria's most beautiful beaches. It's over two kilometres long, with soft sand and a calm blue sea. You also get stunning views of the mountains and the undulating sand dunes. Families should head to the lighthouse section of the beach. It has a kid's play area and free toilet and baby changing facilities. Plus, if you walk too far towards Playa De Ingle, you might stray onto the nudist beaches.
