Discovering Gran Canaria: A Mixed Bag of Beauty and Grime
Spain is renowned for its stunning islands, and among them, Gran Canaria has captured my heart. However, my experience wasn’t without its pitfalls, particularly in one resort that left much to be desired.
The Allure of Spanish Islands
From the sun-kissed Balearics to the volcanic landscapes of the Canaries, Spain offers a plethora of holiday destinations that cater to every type of traveler. While many Brits flock to Greece and Turkey during the summer months, I firmly believe that Spanish destinations stand out for their rich culture, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality.
This year, my family and I decided to explore Gran Canaria, a Canary Island I had yet to visit. Having previously enjoyed the unique charm of Lanzarote and the tranquil vibes of Fuerteventura, I was eager to introduce my kids to a new adventure. Gran Canaria, the second-most visited Canary Island after Tenerife, is particularly popular among Germans and Scandinavians, especially during the winter months.
Choosing Our Base: Playa del Inglés
In planning our family holiday, I conducted extensive research on where to stay. We settled on Playa del Inglés, a resort that, despite its name suggesting a more authentic experience, is known for its long sandy beach and vibrant atmosphere. I thought it would be the perfect family-friendly spot, offering plenty of restaurants and activities.
Playa del Inglés was concrete and grubby
A Disappointing Resort Experience
Unfortunately, our stay in Playa del Inglés turned out to be less than enjoyable. While I’m not one to turn my nose up at a holiday destination, I found the resort to be rather grimy. The inland areas were dominated by concrete structures, and we encountered unpleasant sights that detracted from the experience. In fact, I found Benidorm, often criticized for its touristy nature, to be cleaner and more organized in comparison.
The beach itself, while expansive, was marred by the overwhelming presence of shops and restaurants. The terraces obstructed views of the sand dunes, and the constant pressure from restaurant staff trying to lure us in was exhausting. It felt impossible to enjoy a peaceful stroll without being bombarded by sales pitches.
The Beach: A Mixed Bag
Even on the beach, the high-pressure sales tactics persisted. Within minutes of laying down our towels, we were approached by vendors selling everything from beach blankets to fake designer goods. It was a far cry from the relaxing beach experience I had envisioned.
Exploring Beyond Playa del Inglés
Fortunately, Gran Canaria is easy to navigate, thanks to its excellent bus network and accessible roads. While I wouldn’t recommend driving on the island’s more treacherous mountain roads, the main road, GC-1, offers a pleasant driving experience.
A mere 30-minute drive from Playa del Inglés brought us to Puerto de Mogán, a stark contrast to our resort. Often referred to as the “Venice of the Canaries,” this picturesque area features charming canals, whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers, and a welcoming harbor. The atmosphere was family-friendly, and the beach, while busy, felt serene and inviting.
Nearby Mogán was still touristy but felt more welcoming
A Taste of Authenticity in Las Palmas
The northern part of Gran Canaria, particularly the capital city of Las Palmas, offers a more authentic experience. With its colonial architecture, small museums, and vibrant shopping centers, it’s a delightful day trip. Recently, the city has gained attention as a filming location for the Apple TV show Pluribus, showcasing its diverse landscapes.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria had a more authentic feel
Balancing Tourism and Local Life
Gran Canaria’s tourism strategy is commendable; by concentrating tourist activities in specific areas, residents can enjoy their daily lives without constant interruptions from tourists. This thoughtful planning allows visitors to explore more authentic parts of the island with ease.
Whether you’re looking to relax on a sunbed or immerse yourself in Canarian culture, Gran Canaria offers a balanced experience. While I’ve found a new favorite destination, I’ll certainly be avoiding Playa del Inglés in the future.
