Where to stay in Gran Canaria

Hotels

There are many hotels on the island, the vast majority in the southern resorts of Puerto Rico and Maspalomas. Many belong to international chains and are block-booked by package tour operators through the busy summer and wintersun seasons. Several rural hotels are also available within the interior mountain region. Accommodation options range from room only through to all inclusive.

Grading: All hotels in Gran Canaria are graded from 1 to 5 stars, with the exception of one ultra-luxurious hotel graded 5-star L (Luxury) and small country hotels graded 1 or 2 'palms'.

Camping

There are two privately owned campsites on Gran Canaria (one in Mogán and one in Aguimes). There are also many state-run campsites which are free, however you must apply for a permit at least one week in advance. Facilities are basic and you need to bring your own tent. No unauthorised camping on beaches and any areas covered by the Canary Islands Protected Natural Spaces Act is allowed. The website www.grancanaria.com lists each site in Spanish.

Other accomodation

Many self-catering apartments and villas in Gran Canaria are available to rent either direct through the owners or via online rental directories. The level of accommodation available is as varied as the differing hotels with everything from simple studios to 10-bedroom gated villas.

Casas Rurales, Gran Canaria's country cottages, are usually of a very high standard incorporating traditional rustic designs with all the mod cons. They range from one-bed units tagged on to an existing house, to exclusive use of rustic villas with private swimming pools.