Vacations Gran Canaria | Exclusive vacations Spain

Itinerary

A single base in Las Palmas with a hire car. From historic neighbourhoods and the city beach to the inland areas with mountains, villages and coastal towns in the south and west.

Pace

Leisurely and flexible. You combine short day trips with time by the sea or at the hotel. No long journeys, but something different every day.

Highlights

You start in Las Palmas, where you stroll through the old town and end up at the city beach. From there, you head inland towards Roque Nublo and the mountain village of Tejeda for lunch with a view. In between, you’ll enjoy the greenery of the botanical garden and Parque Doramas. Later, you’ll explore the south, with the dunes of Maspalomas and the colourful Puerto de Mogán. Along the way, you’ll sample local rum and wine, and there’s always time left over for a spot of beach time or an afternoon by the pool.

Accommodation

7 nights at the Santa Catalina Royal Hideaway Hotel in Las Palmas. A peaceful hotel with tropical gardens, a swimming pool and a spa, ideal as a base from which to explore the island.

Profile

For those who want more than just the beach. You enjoy variety: nature, culture and gastronomy, combined with comfort and a top-class hotel.

Day 1: Arrival in Gran Canaria

Your sun-drenched holiday begins upon arrival at Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel. There, you can check in at your leisure and have time to relax in the lush gardens, by the pool or in the extensive wellness centre. You’ll end your first day on the island with a delicious dinner, featuring refined Canarian cuisine and local produce.

Day 2: Exploring Las Palmas

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off for the capital of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas. There, you’ll discover the historic district of Vegueta, visit the Cathedral of Santa Ana and the Casa de Colón museum, dedicated to Columbus. After your walk, enjoy lunch in the charming Triana district and round off the afternoon with a visit to Spain’s most beautiful city beach, Playa de Las Canteras.

Day 3: Roque Nublo, Tejeda and Jardin Canario

Today you head inland. You drive to Roque Nublo, an impressive rock formation with panoramic views. You’ll then visit the picturesque mountain village of Tejeda, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local delicacies, including almond cake. Afterwards, round off the day with a visit to Spain’s largest botanical garden, Jardín Canario, and discover hundreds of exotic, rare and endemic plants.

Day 4: Parque Doromas

After two active days, it’s time for some relaxation. Start your morning at the Santa Catalina spa or soak up the sun by the heated outdoor pool. In the afternoon, you can choose to take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Parque Doramas and enjoy a gourmet dinner in one of the city’s top restaurants in the evening.

Day 5: Maspalomas and Puerto de Mogán

Today you’ll explore the south of the island. Visit the iconic dunes of Maspalomas, known for its desert-like landscape. After your walk, head to the charming and picturesque fishing village of Puerto de Mogán, also known as the ‘Venice of Gran Canaria’. Round off the day with dinner at a restaurant by the harbour.

Day 6: Arucas and Bandama

Today you’ll drive to Arucas to admire the imposing San Juan Bautista Church. Afterwards, visit the Arehucas rum distillery, where you’ll learn more about the production process during a guided tour. You’ll round off the day with a wine tasting at a local bodega in the Bandama region, a volcanic area with ideal conditions for viticulture.

Day 7: Free day

On your penultimate day on the island, enjoy a relaxing day at one of Gran Canaria’s beautiful beaches, such as Playa de Amadores or the exclusive Anfi del Mar. Fancy a bit more action? Then opt for a refreshing water sport such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Prefer to take it a bit easier? Then visit a luxury beach club and enjoy a delicious cocktail by the water. Round off your final day with dinner and a cocktail at a rooftop bar in Las Palmas.

Day 8: Back home

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at the hotel and take the time to enjoy your final moments in Gran Canaria. Depending on your flight time, you may still be able to take one last stroll through the city.

Frequently asked questions about holidays in Gran Canaria

Is a hire car necessary for this Gran Canaria holiday?

Yes, a hire car is strongly recommended. From Las Palmas, you can easily reach the interior, the dunes of Maspalomas and the various coastal towns. You travel at your own pace and are not dependent on limited public transport connections.

When is the best time for this Gran Canaria holiday?

Gran Canaria is an ideal destination all year round. From October to May, you can enjoy mild temperatures and a quieter atmosphere. In summer, it’s warmer and livelier, perfect for days at the beach and long evenings outdoors.

What makes this Gran Canaria holiday different from typical Canary Islands beach holidays?

You’ll explore the island in depth: from Las Palmas and historic districts to mountains, villages and volcanic landscapes. This trip combines nature, culture and gastronomy with a comfortable stay in one place.