CONTRASTS OF GRAN CANARIA (FURTHER DETAILS)

General information:
Gran Canaria is a volcanic plateau that has been dramatically eroded over the centuries – it has giant gorges and valleys, and the contrasts in what you can see and experience on the walks is marked.

Lots of flowers to be seen in the valleys in the centre of the island, as well as towns and villages well off the tourist trail. The spectacular countryside cannot be overstated.

Most walks are on narrow paths and trails and those in the northwest are especially colourful with lots of yellow broome, wild violets and daisies.

Walking paths and trails are often rocky and uneven with some steep ascents and descents. Comfortable walking boots with ankle support are essential. Walking poles recommended. Vertigo sufferers should not book this holiday.

Location:
The first hotel is Las Calas - located in La Lechuza – one of the smaller villages in the centre of the island. Clients are here for the first four nights and do three walks (Cruz del Saucillo, Valley and Volcanoes, Lakes and Villages).

This is the central and high forest zone in the heart of the island. It means 'Cloudy Rock' as it is often shrouded in clouds due to its height at 1800m. High hills and savage valleys are criss crossed with trails between ancient villages. Spectacular scenery – the walks stay high although there is significant altitude change.

(Walks: Roque Nublo, Guayaeque, El Juncal, Cruz del Saucillo)

Who would this holiday appeal to?
If you love incredible views, varied walking and fabulous accomodation, then this trip is for you.

If you suffer with vertigo, then please call us before booking this holiday

Similar to which other holidays?
‘Highlights of Tenerife’ is a close match to this holiday, in terms of scenery. Though the walking is slightly harder on Gran Canaria

Possibility of non-standard departures?
We are able to request non standard departures for you, please call our sales team for more details.

Other details:
What is the food like?

Canarian food is based on the simple recipes that have been handed down the years. Lots of fresh vegetables tomatoes/salads and of course seafood – octopus, squid and sea bream all grilled with fresh lemon juice are common as are steaks and jamon Serrano – the thin cut raw ham. The most popular fish are members of the sea bass family – cherne, cabrilla or merluza are common, and you may find grilled swordfish espada a la plancha, as well as calamares (squid), gambas (prawns) and pulpo (octopus). The traditional accompaniment to most meals is papas arrugadas – literally wrinkled potatoes. These are small Canarian potatoes boiled in their skins in salted water, and are absolutely delicious.

The most famous dessert in the Canaries is bienmesabe – a pie made of almonds, sugar, honey, eggs, lemon and sponge cake, often eaten with cream or ice cream. Other desserts are based on the many fruits the islands produce – a common one is platanos a la canaria, or banana flambee.

Coffee in Tenerife can be a bit tricky so the following advice will be useful if you want to order in local cafes. A cortado natural is regular coffee, café con leche is a white coffee with milk, and a cortado leche leche is a coffee with condensed milk in the bottom, then coffee, then regular milk – very sweet.

The island has some lovely wines – both red and white, that pax will enjoy with dinners. All dinners are included at the hotels.