You know what?
...Gran Canaria is known as 'the small continent' for the great variety found there.

Let's take a look...

The Island is almost circular; 50 km. across and crammed with long, steep winding cliffs that end in the sea. Large stretches of beach and black sand creeks cover most of it.

And the weather?

The Island is divided into two dramatically different climatic zones: the humid north-central filled with beautiful green valleys, craters and other volcanic wonders; and the arid south, with desert-like landscapes where you'll find great places to swim and sunbathe on the huge beaches. Average temperatures change from 17oC in winter to 24oC in summer.

The 'Pozo de La Nieves' is the highest part of the Island (1,949 metres), surrounded by the peaks 'Roque Nublo' and 'Roque Redondo'. Descending to the coast you'll find green valleys, swaying palm groves, crags, craters...

In winter, these inner peaks will probably be snow-capped, while you enjoy the sun on the beach.

 

 

Is it true Las Palmas is the most cosmopolitan city in the Canary Islands?

That's right! It's situated on the northeast tip of the Island, and offers everything of a big city: museums, squares, parks, theatre, etc. It's surrounded by two long beaches, 'Las Caletas' to the north, and the 'Alcaravaneras' to the south.

The interior of Gran Canaria hosts steep highlands, small villages with white houses and red roofs, banana plantations and orchards of tropical fruits.

 

Where's the biggest tourist area?

On the southern tip. You can enjoy huge famous beaches like 'Playa del Inglés' o 'Maspalomas', surrounded by the empty dunes and kilometres of sand.

In short, if you like variety, don't miss visiting this Island.