You would think that Gran Canaria and the Canary Islands were named for the infamous yellow Tweety birds which dwell there, but in reality canaria is derived from the Latin word for dog. When the first Europeans arrived on this island it was filled with large dogs, pictured on the Coat of Arms of the Canary Islands today.
Sourced from Google
Almost perfectly round, Gran Canaria is the third largest island in the archipelago and also has the third highest elevation at Pico de las Nieves . It is the second most populous of the islands and its city Las Palmas de Gran Canaria jointly makes up the capital of the autonomous islands along with Santa Cruz de Tenerife. One third of the island is considered a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and its diverse landscapes have justified its nickname as a ‘continent in miniature’.
+El Jardin Botanico showcases the phenomenal greenery that grows on the island
+In Monumento Natural de Bandama you can hike to the base of Caldera Bandama or drive to the adjacent summit of Pico de Bandama for exceptional views
+Cuatro Puertas is a network of cliffside caves and wonder world for archeologist buffs
+Plaza Santa Ana showcases a concentrated zone of Spanish colonial architecture
+The quintessential hike of the island, Roque Nublo is a volcanic monolith surrounded by stunning scenery
+The highest point on the island is Pico de los Pozos de la Nieve and you don’t have to hike to see it
+Maspalomas Beach is the main resort hub in the south of the island with 1,000-acre dunes
+Lola Restaurant is an intimate dining experience in an unsuspecting locale
+Paseo de Canarias has an immaculate tiled alleyway honoring the traditions of the archipelago
+There are many natural sea water pools at Las Salinas Agaete swimming in
+Charco Azul may not be the biggest waterfall on the planet, but it is incredible to see one at all on a desert island
+The dragon tale of Mirador el Paso Marinero is an unforgettable sight and drive
+The journey is the destination when hiking to deserted Playa Guigui
+Molino de Viento is a windmill surrounded by kitschy larger than life kitchen appliances
Closest Islands: Fuerteventura & Tenerife