Gran Canaria is an island which makes up one of the seven known as the Canary Islands. It's the third largest island of the archipelago.

It's the most populated and developed island of the seven.

The capital of the island is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

The island is very unique in that it has various possibilites in climate. Due to its geographical position, landscape, and fortunate trade winds the island is generally known for its mild climate year round.

In Gran Canaria, peculiarly, you can roll around in the snow on the island's highest peak during some winters.

Later, drive an hour and reach the beach to sunbathe or explore the desert like sand dunes in the Maspalomas Natural Reserve.

Such diversity has given Gran Canaria the nickname of "Miniature Continent".

Area:
1.560 km2

Coastline:
236 kilometers, nearly 60 kilometers of that are beaches

Highest point:
Pico del Pozo de Las Nieves, aproximately 1,949 meters above sea level.

Capital:
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or just Las Palmas for the locals.

Island Population:
practically 1,000,000

Official Language:
Spanish

Money:
Euros

Climate:
average temperature 23º C: Get today's weather forecast.

In the 15th century, Spain began its conquest and colonization of the islands. Today, the Canary Islands form an autonomous community of Spain.

Culture:
The Gran Canarians like to describe themselves as having the hearts of Latin Americans and the education of Europeans. This is what I love about the people of this island.