Puerto de Mogán in Gran Canaria has been named the best resort in the Canary Islands by Which?, with consistent 25°C temperatures in November and direct flights from Cardiff Airport from £83.
Resort Rankings and Appeal
For decades, sun-seekers have flocked to the Canary Islands for sunshine and coastal escapes beyond summer. In Christmas 1957, a Swedish Transair AB aircraft landed in Gran Canaria with all 54 seats occupied, marking the start of package tourism in the region.
Last year, a record 18.4 million holidaymakers visited the islands, a sharp rise from 69,000 in 1960. With a four-hour flight from the UK and peak season from late November to early April, the archipelago's popularity continues to grow.
Why Puerto de Mogán Stands Out
Among the eight principal inhabited islands, Puerto de Mogán secured the top spot in Which?'s rankings. The comparison publication praised its Andalusian-style houses, canals, and scenic old town, awarding it four stars for scenery.
"No one would claim this is anything but a resort, yet development has been sensitive," Which? wrote, noting the Radisson Blu hotel opened in 2017 and the Michelin-starred Los Guayres restaurant at Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa.
Travel and Winter Weather
TUI operates direct flights from Cardiff Airport to Gran Canaria Airport, with fares from £83 in November. The drive to Puerto de Mogán takes about an hour, and Global Bus Line 91 tickets cost under £10.
December brings average daytime temperatures of around 22°C, dropping to 17°C at night, with sea temperatures near 21°C. The resort, nicknamed "Little Venice," features a sheltered beach, Friday market, and waterfront dining options.
