Gran Canaria: The miniature continent

Travelling to the Canary Islands means discovering a different side of Spain, on the shores of the Atlantic. Of the seven islands in the Canary archipelago, Gran Canaria is the third largest after Tenerife and Fuerteventura. Nicknamed the "miniature continent", Gran Canaria stands out for the diversity of its climate and landscapes, but above all for its fabulous beaches of white sand and black lava, as well as its magnificent natural areas. Like the rest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria enjoys a subtropical climate, better known as "eternal spring", which leaves a diverse and impressive flora and fauna all year round.

Since 2005, almost half the island of Gran Canaria has been recognised by Unesco as a biosphere reserve, as have the islands of La Palma and Lanzarote, El Hierro and, later, Fuerteventura. Made up of a variety of ecosystems, these reserves are areas where solutions are promoted to reconcile the conservation of biodiversity with the sustainable presence of mankind. They represent "sites supporting science for sustainability" and are internationally recognised as part of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MaB) programme.

To the north, the Agaete district is surrounded by fertile banana-growing valleys. To the east lies Las Canteras beach, bordered by a magnificent coral reef, just above Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the island's capital. In this cosmopolitan city open to the sea, the beaches are a must, as are the duty-free shopping areas.

Further inland, to the east of the Doramas rural park, lies the municipality of Teror, a place of great historical and natural value, with a vast religious heritage. Further south is Roque Nublo. This 80-metre peak, which rises to 1,700 metres, is a sacred place for the Guanches (the original community), as is the Roque Bentayga and the other areas that make up the Sacred Mountains. Together with the Risco Caído, they form the cultural landscape of the island of Gran Canaria.

Crossing the island and following the south-west road, we find Mogán, a welcoming and peaceful place where you can still feel the atmosphere of a typical Canarian seaside resort, as well as La Aldea de San Nicolás, Santa Lucía, with Puerto Rico and Arguineguín a little further down the road. Continuing towards the southern tip of Gran Canaria, you will find the Maspalomas dunes, a unique natural area dotted with long golden sandy beaches, the historic Maspalomas lighthouse and many other activities that make Gran Canaria such a rich destination.

Whether you're looking for a place to relax or a place to party, Gran Canaria really does have a lot to offer. Its natural spaces, picturesque corners and the mix of cultures that is so characteristic of the island are real gifts to be discovered on your next visit. There are also dozens of beaches, a whole network of cultural spaces, a rich gastronomy and a carnival bursting with joy, colour and fun.

So come and discover the island and risk falling in love with it, its people and its exceptional landscapes. The "miniature continent" awaits you, so visit it from top to bottom and enjoy the "eternal spring" of the Canaries. The time spent here, even if it passes quickly, is eternal.