Family holidays to Gran Canaria
The third largest of the islands that make up the Canaries, Gran Canaria is the most developed of them and offers a variety of activities and landscapes from the hustle of its capital Las Palmas, lovely beaches as well as the tranquillity of the hinterland, steep highlands, mountains and woods. And as for the weather; absolutely perfect all year round!
Family days out and attractions in Gran Canaria
Young and old alike, there is so much to do in this idealist holiday spot and thanks to its climate; it doesn’t matter when you decide to visit as you will certainly have a blast!
Visit at least one of the numerous museums that cover a diverse range of history and topics; all presented in an interesting and informative way that will keep inquisitive minds happy and asking to go to another one! Do check these ones out; The Science Museum, the Canarian Museum, the Christopher Columbus House Museum and the Museum of Guayadeque.
Take a City Sightseeing Tour by bus or a Mini-train tour to discover the modern busy city, panoramic views from the high points and the surrounding streets of the region.
Or how about an amazing trek on board the famous Maspalomas Dunes Camel Saffaris? Kids will truly love a few hours of fun riding on board one of the oldest methods of transport known to man! The humble camel!
Sioux City is another great day out for the entire family. Get set for some Wild Western entertainment with bank robberies, saloon fights, cattle stampedes, rodeos and gunfights at the OK Corral! And don’t forget the amazing interior of Gran Canaria with steep highlands, picturesque small villages, banana plantations and tropical fruit orchards! Do enjoy a tasty fresh treat of fruit salad while reroute!
The island also has so many safe sheltered beaches like Playa del Inglés or Maspalomas; which are perfect for families with little ones; but do take care with the sun and remember to apply sunscreen and wear hats!
And as Gran Canaria is such a family friendly destination, there are plenty of water parks, theme parks, play parks; in fact so many parks and entertainment venues especially for kids - they won’t ever want to leave!
Child friendly accommodation and places to stay in Gran Canaria
When looking at accommodation options in Gran Canaria most of them offer day-care, kid’s clubs and are very child focused; after all this is the island that is the perfect family getaway! Parents can relax knowing that their little or not so little ones will be entertained, looked after and best of all give everyone some time out after all the excitement of the day together! Kids love time out as well you know! Honest! Also do look at bungalow or apartment type accommodation that is also available as these offer space and comfort with the convenience of resort facilities often thrown in as well!
Some terrific hotels and resorts that you may like to check in to further are Playa del Ingles, Maspalomas, Puerto Morgan, Puerto Rico, Playa del Cura, Las Palmas and Puerto de la Cruz. Happy researching!
Family restaurants and local cuisine
At mealtimes, you will find children's menus at the various establishments, as well as practically any of the fast-food franchises that the children like so much.
Obviously being an island in the Mediterranean, fish is really popular in Gran Canaria. Locally caught varieties include tuna, swordfish and sea bass. Do try the Sancocho; it's absolutely superb or fish stew is also often on the menu. For fussy eaters there are plenty of fish and chips to go as well!
Do try tapas; light snacks which are very popular, local and obviously many of the smaller restaurants or cafes offer the real deal when it comes to local traditional foods. It's always a lot cheaper too.
Finally, as there are so many attractions in this island paradise for families, it is best to plan ahead. You will need at least a week to get around them all, and then another one to recoup your energy! That’s a good excuse anyway!
