Beautiful Canary Islands destination took my breath away - it's only 4 hours from the UK

Ahead of my trip to Gran Canaria, I did the usual research for places to visit on the popular Canary Island.

Among boat trips, activities and visits to the beach, there was one destination on the island that received excellent reviews for its beauty. When I finally experienced it for myself, I could immediately see why.

Bursting with colour and vibrancy, Puerto de Mogán is a picturesque town and marina situated along the coast of Gran Canaria. It boasts a port filled with clean, white boats, glistening water and a breathtaking view of the sea.

There are restaurants and trinket shops along the marina and a bustling market selling a little bit of everything, from hand made jewellery, to food, fashion and more.

I felt like I was walking through a small town in Greece or the Caribbean as I popped in and out of boutiques and strolled along the stone streets. Bright, colourful bougainvillea adorn each corner of the pristine, whitewashed buildings.

It’s no wonder Puerto de Mogán is known as the Little Venice of the Atlantic, as canals and bridges can be found further inland.

I had lunch al fresco in a small, authentic restaurant on the seafront after a day of shopping in the town’s market, enjoying a tapas platter and taking in the sounds and smell of the sea, which was just moments away.

Puerto de Mogán is a small fishing village that sits at the foot of a cliff on the southwest coast of Gran Canaria. The original resort was built in the 1980s. A charming new marina was built out from the existing shoreline and fishing harbour where you can take boat trips from for a spot of fishing or dolphin spotting.

The golden sand on the south-facing beach was imported from the Sahara and the water in the bay is protected by a breakwater which makes it ideal for families with children and anyone wanting to have a gentle, safe swim in the sea. There’s plenty of amenities on the beach such as sunbeds and parasols and jet skis and pedalos are available for hire.

Puerto de Mogán emerged as the best resort, scoring an impressive 90 per cent based on member reviews. The survey evaluated eight key criteria, including beach quality, scenery, food and drink, accommodation and value for money.

This "peaceful, beautiful place" also received three stars for its tranquil atmosphere. Following suit with top marks is Playa Blanca, crowned the highest-rated in Lanzarote with a 77 per cent thumbs-up, reports the Manchester Evening News.

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