Gran Canaria, the third largest Canary Island, almost circular in shape with an average diameter of 30 miles, rises to 6,400 ft above sea level at its highest point. The varied landscape embraces desert scenery, barren cliffs cut by deep gorges, magnificent mountains, fertile tropical valleys and stunning sandy beaches.

A popular year round destination with European visitors in search of a sunny climate, the Island plays host to some of the Canary Island's most popular holiday resorts. Playa del Ingles, Maspalomas, San Agustin and the cliffside resort of Puerto Rico are the most frequented. Each resort offers a something for everyone appeal through its own individual brand of atmosphere ranging from the bright lights and boisterous nightlife of Playa del Ingles, the stunning scenery of Puerto Rico, the quiet relaxation of the southern resort of San Agustin and the golfing paradise of Maspalomas.

Best time to visit: All year round. The island enjoys a warm climate 365 days of the year.

Essential experiences: The island's 538 sq miles can be explored by tour bus, jeep or hired car; various theme parks include Sioux City, Wild West theme park, Aqua Sur water park, Camel Safari park, Palmitos animal park and crocodile park; organised cruises aboard yachts or old schooners or a day's sailing around the whole island; Las Palmas, a sizeable city and port, offers the best shopping opportunities and has some good duty-free bargains; La Vegueta is the historic quarter where Columbus called en route to the New World.

In a few words, Gran Canaria is: Crazy nightlife, vibrant resorts, stunning scenery, gay holidays without the stigma, fantastic holiday activities and lots to see and experience.

Whatever your perception of this Canary Island, whether it be a holiday destination full of fun packed action or a guaranteed sunshine retreat, to the millions of tourists that visit Gran Canaria year after year, it remains one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations and a sun-soaked haven for all.