Maspalomas

Undulating dunes and a pristine stretch of beach (a staggering 6 km of golden sands) are what made Maspalomas Spain famous in the first place - that and the fact that some adventurous German tourists started a naturist colony there many years ago! Nudist bathing is fairly popular in the area but is by no means exclusive as there are many family sites with suitability for children where the waters are clear and shallow and safe for toddler bathing.

At its southern end, Faro (meaning lighthouse) marks the most southerly point in Europe, and this arcs in a glittering crescent right along through Playa del Ingles to San Agustin at the far end. The main beachside resort close to the dunes is the Faro area which has plenty of restaurants and souvenir shops. The attractive seafront promenade sees evening strollers enjoying the atmosphere, deciding where to have a drink, or choosing a restaurant for later and this is what Gran Canaria holidays are all about. Maspalomas is one of Gran Canaria's quieter areas and is known for its beautiful landscape. However, you are within walking distance to Playa del Inglés which has many great nightlife options.

This area sees the beginning of the Maspalomas Natural Dune Reserve with three distinct ecosystems, so it's an exceptional natural space. It is amazing to witness the two disparate experiences of tourism and raw nature communing in harmony.