A Guide to Gran Canaria Spain. Tenerife and Las Palmas Environment. Gran Canaria is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe. There are many reasons that explain this popularity apart of course of its world famous beaches. The main one might be the combination of microclimates, unique in the world. The landscape, the winds, the sea and the geographic situation on the 28th parallel, 60 sea miles from the African coast, defines the climate on Gran Canaria, island of volcanic origin and rich in contrasts. "Mini-continent" is perhaps the best qualified word to express the variety of landscapes in Gran Canaria, completed with a tourist infrastructure of first category. Both making the island attractive to visit at any time of the year. In fact, most tourists come in the winter time, avoiding the low temperatures in their home countries. Gran Canaria (1 560 km2, population of over 800 000) is the perfect choice for your "second home" in a warmer climate, whether a sun worshipper, avid golfer, fishing enthusiast, gourmet, or you prefer energetic hiking in volcanic mountain landscape and lush vegetation. The capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is the largest city of the islands and is well-known as an international city with exciting shopping opportunities and a rich cultural life. The climate on the southern coast is often referred to as the best in the world, and naturally, this is where most UK and Northern European residents prefer to live. Famously known as Spain's 'miniature continent', due to its diverse landscape and micro-climates, Gran Canaria is the third-biggest of the Canary Islands. Gran Canaria contains a mixture of towns, villages and seaside resorts, with the island's capital being Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, a bustling city on the northeastern coast, known for its historic old quarter district and its endless selection of restaurants and bars. Combined with the superb year-round sunny weather and mild climate, Gran Canaria's beaches are one