Maspalomas
Maspalomas is best known for its magnificent sand dunes, protected as a nature reserve. Part of the original expanse was destroyed in a flurry of construction in the 1960s and 1970s many plant and animal species were lost at that time, but the authorities are working to reintroduce them. Today Maspalomas is one of the Canary Islands' largest resorts, butt it's still easy to find a peaceful spot in which to enjoy the sun away from the tourist crowds. Maspalomas's distinctive 19th-century...
Beaches
This is an unrivalled place to sunbathe, bordered by the dazzling dunes see pp18-19 . Don your snorkel and swim with the fish in the crystalline waters of the capital's 3-km 2-mile golden beach. A rocky reef known as La Barra, The Bar keeps the waves back, making this a superb place for families to swim. Further south, the reef ends and surfers take advantage of the breaks. If you prefer to Las Canteras stay dry, take a gentle stroll along the promenade, stopping in La Puntilla for a seafood...
Museo Canario Las Palmas
Early Canarian history is a mysterious and fascinating subject that is given in-depth coverage in this excellent museum. The collection presents the most respected theories concerning the origins and practices of the Guanches, allowing you to reach your own conclusions. While most of the objects were unearthed on Gran Canaria, there is also detailed information on the primitive cultures of the other islands. You can check your e-mail and sip a coffee at Ciber Siglo XXI on C Reyes Cat licos. You...
General Index
AC Hotel Las Palmas 59 Acaymo Mog n 61 Acusa 83, 84 Agaete 78 churches 39 ermitas 39 restaurants 79 Agaete Valley see Valle de Agaete Aguas Dulces 45 Ag imes churches 38 drives 50 hotels 113, 114 Old Quarter 89 restaurants 60, 91 air travel 103 Albergue Centro Internacional de Windsurfing Pozo Izquierdo 116 Albergue La Hoyilla San Nicol s de Tolentino 116 Albergue Tejeda 116 albergues 107 alcohol, measures 109 Alfonso, Antonio Tonono 47 La Alquitara Las Palmas 71 And n Verde 84 animals 43 Anno...
elO Things to Avoid
The only way to avoid these pests completely is to steer clear of the tourist resorts. Sometimes you can make it work to your advantage, if they're offering free tickets to an attraction you want to visit, but given the amount of time you have to spend listening to their spiel, it generally isn't worth it. More than a few holidaymakers are fooled by the seemingly cool or cloudy weather, and end up getting terribly sunburnt. Follow the locals' lead and head indoors for a long lunch or a siesta,...
La Cumbre
La Cumbre - the Summit - is the mountainous heart of the island. Worlds away from the sun-and-sand image of the Canaries, Gran Canaria's highest peaks are often shrouded in mist, and snow is not unusual in winter. The two most recognizable rocks, Nublo and Bentayga, were considered holy ground by the Guanches. Now sparsely populated, the region has maintained local traditions more than any other part of the island. Enjoy some unrivalled vistas and hearty food - and don't miss the aboriginal...
elO Campsites and Hostels
This friendly, well-run site in the remotest region of the island has cabins and caravans as well as space to pitch tents. Facilities include swimming pools, a restaurant and a bar. It's close to the start of the Guiguf hike see pp82-3 , and a short walk from a quiet, pebbly beach. d Tasartico to Playa del Asno road Map A4 928 89 04 93 There are three campsites in this group, one on the coast and two further up the ravine, all with good facilities and well located for the southern resorts...
elO Best of the rest
Spain's first golf club was originally located in Las Palmas, but later moved to a new site at a more prestigious location, in Bandama. Nearby is another fine course, El Cortijo, host to international competitions. Both are open to non-members on weekday mornings. Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas Ctra de Bandama s n, Sta Br gida. Map E3. 928 35 01 04. www.real clubdegolfdelaspalmas.com El Cortijo Autov a del Sur, km 6.4, Telde. Map F3. 928 684 890. www.cortijogolfcenter.com Begun in 1519, this...
Places to Eat
Set right on the seafront, this friendly place offers old favourites such as squid and octopus alongside more original choices like gooseneck barnacles. Playa de Sardina Map C1 928 88 32 96 Closed Sun D, Mon Barbecued meats in a cosy rustic setting. Leave space for dessert - the rice pudding arroz con leche and cr pes are divine. GC43, km 1.3 Map D2 928 62 23 23 Closed Sun D, Mon, Tue The meat dishes stand out at this welcoming and child-friendly restaurant with wonderful views. Monta a de...
elO Gran Canarian Plants
A subspecies of the legendary dragon tree Dracaena tamaranae was discovered on Gran Canaria in 1972. With just 20 known examples, it is one of the rarest trees in the world. Despite its thinner, more pointed leaves, it strongly resembles the common dragon tree, and shares its renowned red sap, known as dragon's blood'.' A sighting of these endemic copper- or deep-red-coloured flowers Isoplexis chalcantha, Isoplexis isabelliana is a treat, since they are now so rare. Two species of foxglove...
Teror
A visit to Teror is a must, not only for its exquisite Canarian architecture, but also because of its historic and religious importance. An independent parish q since 1514, Teror is one of the oldest urban centres on the island. Its religious t connections date back to the time when the Virgin Mary was sighted under a 0 pine tree in a nearby forest. The Madonna of the Pine later became the island's O patron saint, and pilgrims travel from near and far to pay homage and bring gifts. The...
Hikes and Drives
Village of Fataga Ag imes to Maspalomas Village of Fataga Ag imes to Maspalomas via Temisas, Santa Luc a and Fataga drive Break up this winding drive with stops at quaint pueblos Temisas see p89 and Fataga, and at the mirador viewpoint on the road to Maspalomas. A detour takes you to the La Sorrueda reservoir and on to the Fortaleza de Ansite, south of Santa Luc a. Map E4-D6 Take the road out of Lomo Magullo towards Los Arenales. A clear path leads you along the lush ravine, where a stream...