17 Oct 2008

Palmitos Park, Maspalomas, a family treat re-born

Published in Living in Gran Canaria, News

Gran Canaria is proud of its reputation as an island that attracts families, not just for the sun and beaches, but also for great entertainment. This August that reputation received a big boost when Palmitos Park re-opened to the public, bigger and better than ever. When fire ravaged the south of Gran Canaria in July 2007, one of the hardest hit places was Palmitos Park, the iconic bird, animal and flower park that had been a magnet for families since it opened in 1980. Large areas of the magnificent gardens were destroyed and 70 animals were killed, leaving the park a mammoth task of re-building. Just replacing what had been lost was not an option, the park owners decided to go a stage further and add new attractions to the park and make further commitments to long term nurturing of endangered plant and animal life with an uncreased bredding programme. All the favourite colourful parrots are still here and featured in their own regular shows through the day, as well as similar displays from birds of prey and exotic birds. There is also an orchid house, cactus garden and butterfly house, plus plenty of food and drink stops. Car parking can cope with 600 cars a day and there is easy access by bus from the surrounding areas such as Puerto Rico and Mogan. Maspalomas is in the heart of the tourist south and also boasts 2 large golf courses and excellent night life. It's no wonder it is a popular and thriving area for people to settle down and make a new home. FACTS AND FIGURES