Behind the tourist traps: A look at the real Gran Canaria

Make sure you're the first to know everything about Gran Canaria with this guide to the best routes off the beaten track. Victoria from is here to let you know all about her insider tips and top five places to visit.

Victoria's Gran Canaria blog started out with a very clear goal: to make sure people visiting or living in Gran Canaria got to hear about all the best events, attractions and adventures on the island. Most of these revolve around active pursuits.

"Gran Canaria is the perfect destination for couples and families who enjoy the great outdoors, whether that be hiking a trail in the lush green parts of the island or soaking up the sun at one of the beautiful sandy beaches," she explains.

Just ten minutes' drive from our Radisson Blu Resort, Gran Canaria takes you to Amadores Beach, in the south of the island, while 15 minutes in the other direction leads to Aqualand in Maspalomas, which Victoria describes as "splash-tastic family fun."

For new arrivals who want an overview of Gran Canaria, Victoria recommends the hop on, hop off open-top bus tour of Las Palmas.

"You will get a general view of the city, as an audio guide will highlight points of interest. Browse the shops in Triana and grab a bite to eat at one of the side street cafés or restaurants."

The island also has several significant cultural sites worth a visit. "One which I recommend you visit is The Painted Cave. ‘Cueva Pintada' is a museum and archaeological site in Galdar,” she says.

"A guided tour will show you how the Guanches lived on the island and the museum displays many of the findings from digs. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the island, there are discoveries of ruins along a few parts of the coastline too.”

With so many attractions to choose from, is it possible to pick a top five? Here's Victoria's run-down of her favorite days out on the island:

"Pack a picnic (and a jacket) and head to the pine tree-covered Las Mesas in the mountains of Gran Canaria. If you go in wintertime you may even see some snow!"

"Known as Little Venice, Puerto de Mogán is a beautiful little gem on the southwest coast of Gran Canaria. Stroll around the resort and enjoy a meal or dessert at one of the beach view bars and restaurants. Gelatomania has many flavors of ice cream and even dairy-free sorbet."

"Close to the fishing village Arguineguín, El Pajar is, in my opinion, the place to visit for seafood. Beachfront restaurant Bar Playa El Boya does delicious sardines, octopus and squid, to name a few."

"North of Gran Canaria is where you will find Agaete. There is a pebble beach with platforms to take in the sunshine and a parade of restaurants to enjoy a meal. If you fancy a day trip over to Tenerife, this is where you catch the Fred Olsen boat."

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"Is there anything more relaxing than having dessert or a cocktail as you watch the sunset? Pingüino Soul does amazing crepes (I love the Nutella ones!), or Café de Paris near the lighthouse has the best apple pie on the island. The large promenade in Las Meloneras is great for walking off those after-dinner treats and also has some great shops for jewelry and designer clothes."

With these great tips you're sure to have an experience like no other on your next visit to Gran Canaria. Thanks Victoria!