A second visit to the same island. I had mixed feelings. This could be boring. But, on the contrary to my thoughts, this versatile island pleasantly surprised us. Again!
One of the main islands among 7 Canarias islands, the Gran Canaria offers a spectrum of activities, sightseeing and a perfect beach holiday for a family. With the best temperature throughout the year; especially in the southern part of island, the sunny weather is apt for beach holiday in late spring/ summer and early autumn.
Art enthusiasts, be ready with your sketchbook, pens/paints to cover few places you visit. I did some experiments with the views I got throughout my journey which you I share here.
On our first visit, we stayed near Maspalomas/ Playa del Ingles which was a great location with nice restaurants just a few metres walk down the sand dunes to a beautiful beach. This time we wanted to try out a different location. We chose Peurto Rico/Amadores beach – a great option for families as it has shallow waters with no big waves. To set a good routine we booked sightseeing rounds in the morning after a lazy breakfast and post lunch was a our time to get into the water.
With an apartment just in front of the beach, it is easy for families to toggle between the accommodation and the amazing water. This area has supermarkets to shop for daily needs.
I could not stop myself from painting this. It looks much more beautiful than in this painting.
Amadores beach has good restaurant options. For vegetarians, there are few Italian restaurants, Tapas and also one called Happy Valley which satisfies tastes of both hungry Indian parents and Italian cuisine loving kids.
For your evenings, I recommend a walk from Amadores to Puerto Rico, the nearest town. This walking route gives great views of sea and the beach. It’s a good 30-minute walk and you can take back a taxi for less than 4 euros.
Puerto Rico is a harbour town which offers boat excursions and activities like Whale/Dolphin watching tours who guarantee an extra trip of you don’t cite any of these creatures during your first tour. It’s highly recommendable as seeing dolphins in their natural habitat.
A trip around the island is always nice if you have a car. Alternatively, you can book a tour.
The main attractions which I can recommend are: going to the mountains for nice view, the Rock Nublo visit. You will spot Aloe vera farms around. If you like natural products, check out their aloe vera products which are very good for treating sun burns after the beach holiday.
Another of my favourites is Maspalomas sand dunes and lighthouse. An early morning stroll will get you good view and some good photos. The temperature is cooler as you walk on the dunes. Around the dunes are the beaches with big waves. Meloneras and Playa del Faro are few to name. These places can also be visited during evenings to watch the sun set magnificently!
Puerto Mogan is another place that merits a half day trip. It is a beautiful town known as Venice of Gran Canaria. It has nice restaurants and you can go for a submarine tour.
Other visits can include: Palmitos Zoo/park, angry bird activity park, Aqualand and other adventure parks like Holiday world. A drive to Las Palmas is well worth the trip. From Las Palmas port, you could take tours to nearby islands like Tenerife.
So go ahead and check out this joyful destination. Happy holidays!
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