31/03/2026
🌴 Gran Canaria:
A Holiday of Two Halves 🌴
Our recent trip to Gran Canaria gave us the perfect mix of authentic local charm and luxurious relaxation.
We started our stay in the north of the island, choosing Santa Catalina, around 40 minutes from the airport. We wanted to experience real Spanish culture, away from the typical tourist hotspots, and it did not disappoint. The town has a lovely balance of city life and beach vibes, with a genuinely local feel.
The weather here was a little windier and cloudier, although the sun did make some welcome appearances. One of the absolute highlights was our gorgeous boutique hostel. This was not your typical backpacker stay. Think beautifully styled rooms, an incredibly comfortable oversized bed, TV, and en suite. It was a real hidden gem for around £55 per night.
Another standout experience was the famous Ruta de Pinchos every Thursday evening. Tucked away on a charming street, locals gather for drinks and delicious pinchos ( tapas served on cocktail sticks). At around €4 each, it was fantastic value and such a great way to soak up the atmosphere.
Getting around was effortless thanks to the local buses, which were reliable, easy to use, and very affordable.
For the second half of our trip, we headed south to Playa del Inglés, where the island transforms into a classic holiday destination. Here we stayed at the stunning Barceló Margaritas, in the adults only Royal Level, and it truly felt like paradise.
From the moment we arrived to find chilled cava waiting on ice, everything was impeccable. The suite was beautifully designed, the sunbeds were incredibly comfortable and thoughtfully arranged, and the pool was one of the warmest we have ever experienced. The whole space had a calm, zen-like atmosphere that made it impossible not to relax.
We were only away for 4 nights but it honestly felt like a week because of how chilled the Adults only area was.
Gran Canaria really does offer the best of both worlds. Whether you are looking for culture and authenticity or pure indulgence and comfort, this island delivers.