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What's it really like ? Transfer time: Approx 35 minutes Location: Note: Sonnenland is an inland suburb of Maspalomas with no beach of its own. Maspalomas is extremely popular with German and British visitors who want to be close to limitless activities and still have a bolt-hole. Catering for the mass holiday market the area's low-rise accommodation sprawls eastwards from the famous dunes (above) until eventually merging with its raucous neighbour, Playa del Ingles. These are family orientated resorts comprising many attractions within walking distance or a taxi ride from most of the accommodation. Beaches: 3 km of near-deserted sand dunes on the doorstep with a smaller section catering for basic holiday needs, sun loungers, etc. Without doubt one of the best beaches in the Canaries and a worthy winner of the prestigious 'Blue Flag' for cleanliness. Naturists favour some of the more secluded spots among the dunes but don't be surprised to find some mingling with other bathers. The sea breeze can be quite bracing at times. Days out: Perfect for golfers with a handy 18-hole course and a new course due for completion in 2005. Two water parks and 'Holiday World' are both close by. Camel rides across the sand dunes are very popular. Further afield is the 'cowboy' town, Sioux City and the Caldera de Bandama volcano. Shopping complexes in the centre of the resort are supplemented by lots of tourist shops dotted about. Electrical goods are cheap but make sure they're compatable with the voltage back home Nights out: Low-key bars, with the odd one providing 'live' music and some quality restaurants along the sea front For a bit more action jump in a taxi to Playa del Ingles 2km away from the centre of Maspalomas. You may want to take a late picnic and watch the spectacular sunset from the edge of the dunes - but don't stray too far in the dark! Bucket and Spade Brigade: Good choice for families, although with such a variety of attractions on the doorstep it could turn out to be an expensive one! The Aqualand water park has a good variety of slides suitable for most ages and a wave pool. It's cheap to get to in a taxi. 'Holiday World' offers traditional funfair rides including dodgems and a big wheel. The beach is superb but it gets crowded and the sand is hot. Also be aware that naturists favour certain spots along the beach. |
