Maspalomas Sand Dunes, Spain

Maspalomas Dunes are one of the most picturesque places in Gran Canaria , representing a piece of sandy desert, which spreads over 4 km along the coastal area of the island. The sand originated from coral reefs crushed into reasonable golden grains of limestone by the grinding action of glaciers approximately more than thousands of years ago. The present ocean dragged them to the shore and ultimately wind accumulated them into dunes.

This site is in close proximity to the eponymous town and attracts many tourists. Around the tower comfortable hotels and beautiful green lawn for golf lovers is so revered aristocratic sport. The dunes are constantly moving, although the movement is absolutely unnoticeable to the eye and is several meters per year. Against the background of azure-blue waters of the Atlantic Sands look extremely colorful in different seasons and together form an incredibly beautiful picture painted by nature. The sand of the more than 32-ft (10 m) high dunes was not blown over from the Sahara - as often presumed – but has maritime origins; it is made of finely grind lime shells of mussels. [First Image credit El Coleccionista de Instantes ]

Image credit roba66

Maspalomas Dunes are the result of crushed coral in the sand, due to the natural chaos caused by the ice age. Since 1994, Maspalomas has got the status of a nature reserve 403 hectares, which continues inland another outstanding park Gran Canaria - La Charco. There remained a unique lake, under pressure dunes periodically changes its coastline.

Image credit McDaveHamburg

Beach area somewhere equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas and showers, but there are wild places for fans of classic holiday in peace and quiet, in the absence of infrastructure. Sand, especially in the middle of the day, it is very hot, so you should take with a beach shoes. Maspalomas Dunes certainly worthy of special attention, and definitely worth it to give them a little time during your stay on the island of Gran Canaria.

Image credit Michal Sleczek

At the western end of this nature reserve you’ll find El Oasis, which is bordered by La Charca, the remains of a sea-water lagoon bordered with palm trees, hosting many species of migratory birds from Europe stopping here on their route to Africa.