Puerto Mogan Holiday

In total contrast to lively Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas, the picturesque town of Puerto Mogan is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. Set at the tip of the Mogan Valley, on the foot of a rocky outcrop looking out to sea, Puerto Mogan is based around a pretty yacht-filled marina. The old town is a cluster of quaint, typically Mediterranean houses and whitewashed cottages, which climb up a steep hillside.

The main resort also has a village-like appeal with buildings emblazoned with bougainvillea and overhanging geraniums lining the narrow streets. Aptly named 'Little Venice', a canal runs through the resort, spanned by a criss-cross of enchanting footbridges, while the harbour-front simmers with quayside restaurants and bars.

Beaches

Sheltered by high cliffs, Puerto Mogan boasts a small, gently shelving beach whose striking black volcanic sands spill out into turquoise seas.

Shopping

Head down to the marina where you'll find a host of boutiques and souvenir shops. However, for a day of real retail therapy it's well worth heading up to Gran Canaria's capital, Las Palmas, where you'll find a host of shops and shopping malls selling everything from inexpensive gifts to international haute couture.

Nightlife

While Puerto Mogan is home to a host of waterfront bars and a disco, generally speaking it's a fairly quiet resort. Most evenings are spent enjoying a good meal or a quiet drink out along the quayside as the sun, streaked with red and gold ribbons, drops below the horizon for another day.

Local Specialities

Puerto Mogan's harbour-front overflows with restaurants, many selling locally caught fish. For a real taste of the Canaries, try 'morena frita', fried morena fish served with 'papas arrugadas', wrinkly potatoes baked in their skins with salt. Another popular dish is 'sama frita', fried pieces of sama drizzled with 'mojo verde', a green sauce made from oil, coriander and garlic.