Why you should train and race in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria has long held a reputation as the go-to winter training island for athletes. Positioned just 150km from the African coast, this Spanish outpost is blessed with year-long warm temperatures – averaging 23°C – making it a welcome destination to train and race at any time of year.  

Aside from basking in year-round warm sun, Gran Canaria offers triathletes multiple other gains. Gran Canaria Tri, Bike & Run includes a variety of elevations, ideal sea conditions for open-water swimming and safe and modern road conditions for cycling as some of the island’s greatest benefits. Tranquil beaches, superb accommodation and winding trails make the island a wonderful family destination too.

With over 10 years of experience, Gran Canaria Tri, Bike & Run can help you find the ideal hotel, as well as information on the variety of endurance events. Medical support is also available — partnerships with Hospitales Universitarios San Roque in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Hospitales Universitarios San Roque in Maspalomas ensure the health and recovery of athletes. 

Read on to discover why and where you should train in Gran Canaria.

Swim, run, cycle

The island is a paradise for triathletes. Gran Canaria Tri, Bike & Run can advise cyclists on its 229km of cycling friendly roads. Those who have ridden here will testify to the immaculate condition of its winding roads and mercifully little traffic. Riders can enjoy spectacular views across mountains, ravines and coast.

With 236km of coastline, swimmers can expect warm waters, even in February when temperatures are on average 18°C. The sea surrounding Gran Canaria is the Atlantic, which offers a superb setting for swimmers and triathletes looking to increase stamina.

Runners in search of variety are spoilt for choice on the island with the pick of forest trails, mountain-top views, pretty villages and technical trails.

Run to the top of the island’s highest peak, Pico de las Nieves at 1,913m, or take in ocean views on a technical challenge as you ascend Camino de los Romeros.

Time to race

Blessed with idyllic conditions to swim, bike and run, it’s no surprise that the island is host to several major sporting events every year. Annual highlights include:

Epic Gran Canaria: Taking place between 9 and 11 February 2024, this 2-stage race will get your legs warmed up for the challenges ahead this year.

Anfi Challenge Mogán-Gran Canaria: Taking place on 20 April 2024, this popular event offers a variety of challenges across the disciplines.

Gran Canaria Bike Week, La Cicloturista: A week-long event in early December, which celebrates its 36th anniversary in 2024.

Gran Canaria Tri, Bike & Run hold partnerships with several event organisers, including Challenge Gran Canaria, DG Eventos and Entrenar.pro.
Extend your trip by joining a tour with Free Motion Bikecenter, another partner of Gran Canaria Tri, Bike & Run, or ditch your road bike for the day and rent a mountain bike to explore some of the island’s rugged trails.

Where to stay

One of the biggest selling points of Gran Canaria as a prime destination for athletes is the superb accommodation. Many offer heated pools, spas and restaurants that cater for the needs of athletes. 

Others feature fully equipped gyms, bike workshops, muscle recovery therapy, and bike and technical equipment rental.

Check out these athlete-friendly hotels on Gran Canaria:

1. Gloria Palace San Agustín Thalasso & Hotel — Expect panoramic views and incredible health features, including hydrotherapy pools and spa services. 
2. Resort Cordial Santa Águeda — Relax and recover at the steam bath and sauna facilities at this tranquil seafront hotel. 
3. Seaside Sandy Beach — Indulge in luxury at this 4-star hotel with fabulous restaurants and an onsite spa. 
4. Anfi del Mar — Make yourself at home at this sprawling resort complete with 18-hole golf course and wellness centre.
5. Suites & Villas by Dunas — Expect comfort and space in your own suite and access to the onsite cycling center. 
6. The One Luxury Apartments — Escape to your own oasis at this collection of private, 5-star apartments

Plan ahead

Gran Canaria’s diverse range of landscape, elevation, warm waters and constant sun make the island a natural playground for athletes and an ideal place to race and train. 

With a variety of events throughout the year, athletes from around the world flock to this paradise island to challenge their limits, while families can enjoy the beaches and superb accommodation.