Happy TravellerWelcome to Maspalomas, a breathtaking tourist resort located in the southern part of the beautiful island of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and amazing attractions, Maspalomas is a true paradise for travelers. From its pristine beaches to its world-class resorts, this city has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the wonders of Maspalomas and discover why it should be at the top of your travel list.
Maspalomas, once a humble hamlet, has transformed into a thriving tourist destination. Its name is believed to have originated from either a settler and soldier from Majorca or a Genoese friend of Alonso Fernandez de Lugo. Today, Maspalomas is a result of an ambitious development project that took place in 1961, which served as a model for tourist development in other Canary Islands.
One of the things that sets Maspalomas apart from other tourist resorts is its unique personality. Unlike other locations that follow a resort-like development model, Maspalomas has evolved into a fully equipped town with a wide range of infrastructure and public institutions. You’ll find private clinics, hospitals, schools, shopping centers, convention centers, casinos, golf courses, sports centers, and even a Summer University. Maspalomas truly caters to all your needs and provides a one-of-a-kind vacation experience.
Accommodation options in Maspalomas are plentiful, with a variety of choices to suit every traveler. The urbanism concept of the city focuses on horizontal expansion, offering bungalows and a sense of space. It’s no wonder that Maspalomas is a popular winter destination for foreign tourists, especially those from north-European countries. The city attracts visitors from Sweden, Norway, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, and more. It has also gained recognition as a world-renowned destination for LGBT tourism.
One of the highlights of Maspalomas is its luxury hotels along the coast, particularly between Maspalomas and Meloneras. These hotels showcase remarkable architectural designs, with notable examples being the Lopesan Villa del Conde and the Lopesan Costa Meloneras Hotels. The latter even features a replica of the Church of San Sebastián from Agüimes, creating a unique atmosphere for guests.
Maspalomas is not only a tourist destination but also a hub for various institutions and events. It serves as the base for Gran Canaria’s only English language newspaper and has hosted the World Tourism Organization’s World Tourism Day. The city is also known for its gay-friendly atmosphere, with many establishments catering to the LGBT community. The Yumbo Centrum, located in Maspalomas, hosts Gran Canaria’s major Pride celebrations in both summer and winter, attracting attendees from across Europe.
When it comes to landmarks and geography, Maspalomas boasts several iconic attractions. Punta de Maspalomas, the southernmost point of the resort, is dominated by a majestic lighthouse, El Faro de Maspalomas. Built in 1890, the lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding ships traveling between Europe and the Americas. Another must-visit spot is the Maspalomas beach, a 12-kilometer stretch of stunning coastline. The beach is flanked by the Maspalomas Dunes, a natural reserve that is home to diverse wildlife, including birds, eels, and guppies. Exploring the dunes and visiting El Charco, a natural lagoon, is a memorable experience.
Transportation in Maspalomas is convenient, with the Faro de Maspalomas bus station serving as a hub for bus services operated by Global Transport. These buses provide connections to other tourist resorts, towns in the south of the island, and even the island capital, Las Palmas. While plans for a rail link connecting Maspalomas to Gran Canaria Airport and Las Palmas exist, they have not been confirmed due to funding issues.
Maspalomas is a city that truly captures the essence of a dream vacation. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, exploring unique landmarks, indulging in luxury accommodations, or immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, Maspalomas has it all. Start planning your trip to this extraordinary destination and prepare to be captivated by the charm and beauty of Maspalomas, Gran Canaria.
