Gran Canaria is part of the Archipelago of seven main Canary Islands, situated in the Atlantic Ocean, just 150 miles off the African coast and 800 miles away from mainland Spain.
With an area of 592 square miles, Gran Canaria is almost circular in shape - best described as a square with the corners rounded off. The mountainous terrain of the island is due to its volcanic origin, although there are no longer any active volcanoes on Gran Canaria. The most popular resorts in Gran Canaria are Playa del Ingles, Puerto Rico & Maspalomas. However, the island has much more to offer and is rich in history. Founded in 1478, the cobbled streets and noble mansions in Las Palmas' old quarter are where Christopher Columbus prepared for his famous voyage of discovery.