If you’re thinking of coming to the Canary Islands, you should know that accessible tourism in Gran Canaria is a true example for every accessible destination around the world.
Although Gran Canaria benefits from the underlying conditions of 3S tourism (sun, sea and sand), it has been assisted through the effort of different entities so that the island has been actively involved in implementing and monitoring accessibility measures.
Accessibility in Gran Canaria is actually possible thanks to the work of several hotel chains like Dunas Hotels & Resorts, whose commitment to people with disabilities has made all its hotels and resorts wheelchair friendly.
Moreover, southern Gran Canaria has been developing all over the years as an accessible tourism destination and today is one of the leading international examples of a tourist that integrates all kinds of accessible services such as transport, sport, leisure activities, beaches, restaurants, shopping centres, etc.
It is noticeable how the tourism chain works in this destination and offers a wide range of possibilities to make the stay in Gran Canaria safe, comfortable and enjoyable for all. This includes, for instance, the assistive service for people with disabilities in Gran Canaria airport, the different options for transport, including the adapted taxis called Eurotaxis.
Therefore, disabled travelers have the guarantee that this ‘miniature continent’, as Gran Canaria is also known due to its endless and varied landscapes, has evolved over time to continuously remove barriers and encourage accessibility in the tourism sector.
Accessible Hotels in Gran Canaria
This kind of accommodation also known as adapted hotels must make their goods, services, and facilities accessible to customers with disabilities. Thus, accessible hotels include features that ensure guests of all abilities have a comfortable stay.
Accessibility Checklist for Hotel Accommodation in Gran Canaria
Nowadays, accessibility isn’t standardized in the hotel industry and can be easily interpreted in different ways. Rather than look for wheelchair friendly hotels in the Internet, it’s important to have your criteria and needs ready and deal with the hotel directly.
The reason is that hotel websites often show that they have accessible rooms, but their definitions may differ widely and they may not be designed to meet everyone needs. In order to enjoy your accessible vacation to the fullest, some things to ask a hotel are the following.
Common Areas
- Level or ramped access to public areas
- Elevator to above ground accessible accommodation
- Ground level/lobby level accessible washroom
- Automated door opening
- Step free access (level or ramped) and/or lift access to main entrance
- Designated handicap parking with a priority location in the parking lot
Rooms
- Lower hanging space in closet
- Raised toilet
- Grab bars in bathroom
- Wheeled shower chair and/or wall mounted shower seat
- Roll in shower
- Maneuvering space on each side of the bed – 90 cm
- Lever type door handles
- Mid-height light switches and power outlets
- Wider entry and bathroom doorways – external 80 cm, internal 75 cm. Easy to open
What are the Best Accessible Hotels in Gran Canaria?
Booking a hotel is one of the most stressful parts of planning a trip. There are many factors to consider including cost, amenities and location. It is even more challenging for wheelchair users who have to evaluate each hotel thoroughly to ensure it meets their unique needs. To make it easier, next are the best accessible hotels in Gran Canaria.
Mirador Maspalomas by Dunas
Mirador Maspalomas by Dunas is the perfect hotel to enjoy the eternal summer in complete relax. This all-inclusive hotel in Gran Canaria has everything the disabled visitor is looking for. In addition, this family hotel in Gran Canaria is ideal for children thanks to the hotel mascots Duni and Dunita and the animation team.
Persons with reduced mobility can enjoy accessible holidays in its adapted rooms with plenty of services just a few minutes away from the famous Maspalomas Beach, Maspalomas Dunes, Maspalomas Pond, Maspalomas Lighthouse and Meloneras Beach, among others.
Suites & Villas by Dunas and Maspalomas Resort by Dunas
Suites & Villas by Dunas and Maspalomas Resort by Dunas remind of a village in the middle of paradise. Furthermore, they are ideal hotels for sports lovers, such as golf or cycling, not to mention their Wellness Center with lots of treatments like pedicure, manicure, peelings, massages, etc.
Their bungalows and villas fully equipped are ideal for those who want to get away from routine and relax with the privacy they deserve and the maximum comfort. Is there a better plan than strolling through their beautiful gardens with the birds chirping in the background? Probably not...
Don Gregory by Dunas
Don Gregory by Dunas is an adults only hotel in Gran Canaria located in San Agustín Beach, next to Las Burras Beach and Playa del Inglés Beach. Its Nordic style invites to relax and enjoy the sun by the solarium while drinking a select cocktail.
One of its most interesting features of this beachfront hotel in Gran Canaria is that it has direct access to the beach, so disabled people can easily enjoy the sand in no time. Additionally, its large and complete buffet is a must for those who enjoy eating the delicacies of the world.
Bottom line, a big hotel chain like Dunas Hotels & Resort will be your best option. It has policies for accessibility in place and abide by strict guidelines, as it is a property that tends to be renovated more often and features more updated technology. Don’t hesitate to contact its customer service representatives who can help you if any problems should arise.
