Imagine if there was a place where the temperature averaged 23℃ all-year round, the sun shone every day, and there was an endless network of quiet, smooth roads for cycling, varied trails for running, and golden beaches ringed with blue sea for swimming.
Well, this place exists, and it’s called Gran Canaria. Whether you’re a cyclist, runner, swimming, or all three, Gran Canaria is the perfect location to spend time pursuing the outdoor activity you love.
Whether you’re training for a triathlon, looking to take part in one of the island’s sporting events, or simply want to enjoy the fantastic weather for a weekend, there’s something for everyone.
Read on to discover why Gran Canaria is a paradise for outdoor-lovers and athletes alike.
A calendar full of events
If you’re a cyclist interested in challenges, Gran Canaria hosts a number of world-class events. At the start of the year, there’s events like the tough Free Motion Desafío La Titánica race and the popular Epic Gran Canaria competition.
In December, there’s the epic TotalEnergies Gran Fondo Pico de Las Nieves and the Gran Canaria Bike Week, which will see you exploring the incredible roads and mountains that the island is famed for.
But it’s not just fantastic cycling roads that the island is known for. Combined with perfect swimming and running conditions, it’s also an ideal place to train or participate in a triathlon. In fact, it’s been heralded as the best triathlon destination in the world. So, whether you’re aspiring to complete your first triathlon or a seasoned competitor, check out the Anfi Challenge Mogán Gran Canaria triathlon on 26 April 2025.
Go your own way

Aside from big calendar events, Gran Canaria offers opportunities to get outside every day of the year. If you fancy exploring at your own pace, you can choose from a wide selection of rental bicycles and equipment from Free Motion Bikecenter, who can also give you advice on the best routes, and offer guided group rides suitable for a variety of levels as well.
Free Motion Bikecenter has a network of shops on the island which can supply rental bikes along with clothing, spare parts, and maintenance, so you’ll have access to everything you need while you’re on the island.
With steep climbs, switchbacks, exhilarating descents, and ever-changing landscapes, Gran Canaria is the perfect place to explore on two-wheels, and one of the best ways to discover the best the island has to offer is by getting in touch with local tour specialists I’m Pedal.

They know every mile of road on Gran Canaria, and create and personalise private tours and routes that will give you the best possible cycling experience while you’re on the island.
Whether you’re setting yourself the challenge of conquering some of the island’s fierce climbs or want to cruise through the beautiful scenery and explore the quiet roads, I’m Pedal will be able to create something for you.
The perfect sporting partner

If you’re training for a competition or seeking an idyllic place to relax and recover, there’s no better place than Gran Canaria.
Aside from year-round sunshine and comfortable temperatures, the island is well-equipped with comprehensive sports therapy services, from physios to world-class medical professionals such as those at Hospitales Universitarios San Roque, so you can be assured of your safety throughout your stay on the island.

And of course, there are many luxurious accommodation options, many of which have facilities such as heated swimming pools, jacuzzis, and massage services, so you can perform and feel at your best.
You can check out some of our accommodation picks on Gran Canaria that are ideal for sports and ath-leisure trips to the island, complete with state-of-the-art gyms, swimming pools, and recovery facilities.
Find out more

You can find out more information about Gran Canaria’s excellent cycling, running, and swimming experiences and accommodation options at Gran Canaria Tri, Bike & Run.