The Five Best Hotels in Gran Canaria, Spain
Boasting a rugged coastline, beautiful beaches and enough water sports, theme parks, restaurants and bars to keep even the most demanding holidaymaker entertained, Gran Canaria is one of the Canary Islands most popular destinations. Thanks to its abundance of low- cost resorts and a promise of guaranteed sunshine, the island is a hot- spot for families and couples looking for a cheap package holiday in the sun. The island doesn’t just cater to those on a budget, however: in recent years, a new crop of 5* and boutique hotels has sprung up, offering a taste of luxury to those who can afford it. With such a vast range of accommodation options on offer, it can be hard to decide where to stay. To help you choose, let’s look at a rundown of the 5 best hotels in Gran Canaria.
Hotel Riu Palace Meloneras
The main draw of Hotel Riu Palace Meloneras is its location; situated just 800 meters from Maspalomas’ renowned sand dunes, the hotel has some of the most beautiful scenery in Gran Canaria at its doorstep. The interior of the hotel is almost as spectacular as its backdrop. Further to a complete makeover in 2014, the hotel will stun guests with its dramatic architecture, neo baroque style, huge chandeliers and mirrored walls. The hotel’s stylish décor is matched only by the strength of its facilities, which includes 5 pools, immaculately maintained gardens, and a fabulous wellness center.
Highlights of the available treatments include an Aftersun Aloe Vera Massage (guaranteed to help you relax after a hard day sunbathing) and a detoxifying Algae Body Wrap. Meanwhile, gourmets are sure to appreciate having their pick of four excellent restaurants. Magnolia offers a buffet style breakfast and dinner, while Ocean’s View serves up a choice of afternoon snacks. Guests who prefer an a ’la carte experience may prefer to dine at fusion restaurant Krystal, or the hotel’s Spanish option, Espanol. With plenty of entertainment to keep the kids happy, the hotel makes a great choice for young and old alike.
Seaside Balm Beach
Seaside Balm Beach was designed by famed architect, Alberto Pinto. Located in peaceful Maspalomas, the hotel offers easy access to the area’s famous dunes and a five mile stretch of sandy coastline. Aside from its stunning setting, guests will love the hotel for its range of excellent facilities. As well as providing an on-site spa, sauna, steam room and freshwater pool, the hotel also hosts daily tai-chi and yoga classes. A resident tennis coach is on hand to help tennis fans improve their game, while gym bunnies have the opportunity of some one-on-one coaching with the hotel’s personal trainer.
If the thought of all those activities leaves you hungry, you’ll be pleased to know the hotel offers a great selection of restaurants offering a choice of local and international cuisine. After- dinner drinks can be taken at one of the hotels two bars: the lively Bar Africano or the elegant Bar Salón. During peak holiday season, the hotel offers a full activities program for kids, while its Mini Kids Club is available all year round. There’s also a dedicated children’s pool complete with water polo goals. Whether you’re travelling with a family or alone, the Seaside Balm Beach is guaranteed to make a great base for your holiday.
Lopesan Villa del Conde
Situated in the upmarket resort of Meloneras, Lopesan Villa del Conde makes a great option for holidaymakers looking for the best Gran Canaria has to offer. Facilities include an onsite spa offering excellent views across the Atlantic (along with a full range of treatment options), a private seawater Jacuzzi and sun terrace. Guests can also take advantage of the well- equipped gym, or try their luck on the putting green.
As the sun goes down, guests have their pick of five bars. Rum fans should be sure to try the Akoran bar’s house special, Melonera, a delicious rum cocktail with coconut and melon liquor, and just a splash of pineapple and peach juice. With a kid’s club, kid’s pool, and family- friendly evening entertainment, the hotel makes a great option for both families and couples.
Radisson Blu Resort, Gran Canaria
An easy going yet luxurious hotel, the Raddisson Blu Resort opened its doors in 2012. Designed by Norwegian studio, Sias Contract, the hotel’s decor has a distinctly Scandinavian flavor, with clean lines and minimalist styling. Onsite facilities include a bijou spa with Finish sauna, whirlpool Jacuzzi, and more pampering treatments than you could dream of. For guest’s intent on more active pursuits, the hotel offers a choice of tennis, volleyball and pádel courts.
When it comes to wining and dining, the sophisticated Pool Bar offers a great selection of cocktails, along with an extensive lunch and snack menu. Guests may also like to sample some of the treats on offer at the hotel’s 222°SW Bar & Grill, sister restaurant to one of the island’s best restaurants, La Aquarela. With 2 pools and a dedicated kid’s club, the hotel is equally suited to families and singles.
Hotel Costa Canaria
Holidaymakers looking to escape the hustle and bustle would do well to consider the Hotel Costa Canaria. The hotel enjoyed a complete makeover in 2014, and is characterized by its classic, feminine style. Guests in need of some R&R will appreciate the hotel’s luxurious spa, which comes complete with sauna, Turkish bath, heated pools and a range of pampering treatments. While Sun worshipers recline on the rooftop solarium, sporty types can take in a game of boules, tennis or volleyball in between sessions at the on-site gym.
Nature lovers are also well catered too, with extensive, perfectly kept gardens. If you go for a stroll, be sure to keep an eye out for the colorful local Monk parrots, who are known to nest in the gardens tall palm trees.Food lovers will be pleased to know the onsite restaurant offers an excellent selection of Spanish specialties and local produce, with both meat lovers and vegetarians equally well catered too.  It’s worth noting that the hotel caters to a mature clientele only, so is not suitable for families with younger children (although older teens of 16+ are welcome).
