A stunning holiday island, only a four and a half hour flight away from the UK, could be just the perfect destination for a quick winter getaway, away from the gloom and doom of Britain’s rainy, sunless skies.

Those hoping to escape the less-than-ideal UK winter weather, look no further, because we’ve got you covered.

A sunshine holiday island nearly circular in shape — let’s call it our little circle of joy — could be just what you need to feel alive again after a long-spell of Britain’s drab winter.

Known as a ‘miniature continent’ due to the vast variety of varying landscapes and marked contrasts found within the island, this Canary Islands hotspot is blessed with an enviable climate and rich cultural heritage.

Oh, and did we mention the beaches? Kilometres upon kilometres of stunning white sand beaches in the south — or the slightly darker, more volcanic ones up in the north — each serving as the ideal getaway for UK residents who are just looking to thaw themselves while sipping on refreshing beverages.

It’s not even just the beaches. This stunning island has spectacular fishing villages as well as quaint inland villages laced in culture, traditions, and history — ripe for the enthusiastic traveller’s picking.

With daytime temperatures soaring to 21C in February and March (a welcome change from the UK’s 4C average), the island of Gran Canaria is a traveller’s paradise for more reasons than one.

Affordable holiday island prices

Flight prices in February are currently hovering between the £30-£60 range towards the end of the month, with a direct flight on February 24 (which includes one carry-on bag) from London Stansted Airport to Gran Canaria Airport costing just £38.

If the affordable flight prices aren’t enough to entice you, perhaps the cost of drinks will. A pint of beer in several establishments across Gran Canaria will set you back only £2 and if that wasn’t enough — there are many pubs offering the famous Canary Islands Happy-Hour €1 pints (converts to roughly £0.87, and no, this is not a fever dream).

Beaches of Gran Canaria

Dunes of white sand stretch lazily across Gran Canaria’s beaches in the south, while dark sand volcanic beaches dotted with small coves amaze travellers in the north.

Las Alcaravaneras and Las Canteras, sandy beaches that flank Las Palmas, Gran Canaria’s largest city and main port, are all major tourist attractions catering extensively to travellers.

Other well-known beaches on the island include the golden sands at Maspalomas, stretching out into Playa del Inglés, surrounded by white sand dunes and breathtaking scenery.

Slightly quieter family beaches can be found at San Agustín, Amadores, and Puerto de Mogán — ideal for getting away from the crowds.

Yet for those looking to dive right into the action, the tourist enclave of Puerto Rico — famously known for having the best climate in Spain — is the perfect destination.

Anfi del Mar, Playa de Taurito, and Meloneras Beach are also excellent options for travellers to explore.

Things to do

White sand beaches contrasted with green ravines and postcard-perfect villages — that is the beauty of Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands.

Natural pools, hidden coves off dramatic coastlines, wild beaches, and lively cities — there’s something for everyone on this sunshine island, all you have to do is look. Watersports are a big draw for visitors, with some of the clearest and bluest waters in the world seen from the island’s beaches.

Magnificent natural rock formations, volcanic calderas, breathtaking cliffs and lovely inland villages — all add to Gran Canaria’s allure. Roque Nublo, the 80-meter volcanic monolith rock is another attraction for those looking to explore more than just the beaches of this island.

Another major highlight is the ‘Dragon’s Tail’ in the Tamadaba Natural Park offering unmatched panoramic views of the island in the north west. The Inagua Reserve — home to the Gran Canaria blue chaffinch found only on this island — is yet another unique and exciting draw of this holiday destination.

Charming villages like Tejada, Artenara, Fataga, and stunning towns such as Santa Lucía de Tirajana and Agüimes are also well worth a visit.

Gran Canaria is resplendent with charm, entertainment, energy, and scenic views —  making it the ideal destination for your next getaway.