If you’re feeling the winter blues and simply can’t wait till your summer holiday, then consider Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, a sun-kissed haven that’s a mere four-hour flight from the UK. Blending vibrant urban life with golden beaches, it’s an ideal winter escape that will hopefully see you through the cold snap!
January in Las Palmas is refreshingly mild. Daytime temperatures average 19°C to 21°C, dipping to around 16ºC after dark. Skies are mostly clear, with just a few light showers across the month. This stable climate means you can swap your winter coat for light layers: think breathable fabrics and maybe a cashmere shawl for cool evenings.
Playa de Las Canteras is the city’s crown jewel. Its golden shore stretches for 3km, framed by a natural reef that keeps the waves calm. Morning swims and snorkelling sessions here feel tropical – water temperatures settle comfortably around 20°C. Just beyond the sand, the city’s promenade bustles with joggers, cyclists and evening strollers. Rent a bike or join a group walking tour along the coast to spot local murals and hidden coves.
Las Palmas has plenty of history and art for the intellectually inclined. Wander through Vegueta, the UNESCO-listed old town, where cobbled streets open onto grand plazas; or Casa de Colón where you can trace Columbus’s voyages. In January, you might catch a flamenco show or a live jazz night at a tucked-away tavern – check local listings for pop-up performances.
For foodies, this city doesn’t disappoint. Start your day with a tostada topped with local mojo sauce. For lunch, try ‘papas arrugadas’ (wrinkled potatoes) served alongside fresh fish or grilled octopus. And don’t miss ‘gofio’, a toasted grain flour that appears in soups, desserts, and even home-made ice cream. Finish with a glass of sweet Malvasía wine as the sun sets over the Atlantic.
