This beautiful island is blessed with scenery which is very diverse in nature.

The south is arid and abounds with many spectacular canyons while the north is greener and has many majestic mountains, which combine to create a nature trekker’s paradise and fully justify the island’s description as the 'miniature continent'.

One interesting feature of the island is the 'caminos reales' or royal roads.

These paved tracks were built by the King after the Spanish conquest to connect remote mountain villages with the coast.

They are now being used to attract walkers to the island and make hiking a pleasure. Because it is a small island, it is easy to get away from the main tourist centers.

There is a good bus service which can be used for some walks but a car hire service gives you great flexibility.

The weather in the south of the island makes it as one destination in Europe where you can have a beach holiday in the middle of winter!

One of the most impressive features of the landscape of Gran Canaria is the abundance of spectacular barrancos, or canyons.

These range in size from inconsequential 'barranquillos', smaller versions of the barranco, to vast fissures, such as the Barranco De La Data, which has to be one of the most spectacular on the island.

Are you somebody adventurous? Then go and explore Barranco De La Data up close.

It is best to bring along a guide (and of course a map!) if you plan to undertake the trek. It covers a distance of about 15 km. and includes a moderate climb to a height of 765 meters.

Of course you can always stay in the hotel, slouch on the couch and watch Gran Canaria’s natural wonders on cable TV!