Gran Canaria has quietly become a sanctuary for Swedish travellers seeking both warmth and familiarity. While known for its golden beaches and world-class surfing, the island also boasts a lively Scandinavian cultural presence, especially Swedish. Nestled in peaceful coastal towns, Swedish cafés, churches, and cultural centres offer a taste of home under the island sun.
Svenska Baren – A Cozy Corner of Sweden in Playa del Inglés
In the heart of Playa del Inglés lies Svenska Baren, a welcoming Swedish bar beloved by both locals and tourists. With Swedish football on the TV, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere, this venue has become a comforting stop for those craving a slice of Nordic familiarity. A beer with friends here feels more like a reunion than a night out.
Its interior, styled with understated Scandinavian charm, complements its warm outdoor seating. Whether you drop by for a quiet drink or to watch a match, Svenska Baren evokes a sense of togetherness that’s hard to resist.
Turistkyrkan – The Scandinavian Tourist Church
The Turistkyrkan, or Scandinavian Tourist Church, plays a vital role in community life. Located in Playa del Inglés, Puerto Rico, and Las Palmas, it offers more than religious services. Here, visitors are welcomed with “fika,” live music, hiking excursions, and Swedish-language worship sessions.
Many travellers return year after year to reconnect at these gatherings. The church’s social calendar ensures that everyone—from long-term residents to holidaymakers—feels a sense of belonging.
Svenska Kyrkan in San Agustín – A Spiritual and Social Hub
Another cornerstone of Swedish culture on the island is the official Svenska Kyrkan in San Agustín. Each Sunday, the church opens its doors not just for worship, but for coffee, cakes, and conversation. Its peaceful courtyard often fills with Swedish expats enjoying classic pastries and catching up on Swedish news.
The church also offers pastoral support and serves as a cultural anchor for those spending longer periods in Gran Canaria. It is, without question, a cherished sanctuary far from the Swedish cold.
San Agustín – Swedish Roots in a Seaside Town
San Agustín holds deep Swedish roots dating back to the 1970s. Known for its laid-back energy and scenic beaches, the town became one of the first spots where Swedes built a community on the island. Bilingual signs, Swedish-run businesses, and cultural festivals still reflect this legacy today.
The annual Swedish Week and Lucia Festival bring both locals and travelers together, celebrating Nordic traditions with music, food, and glowing candlelight. A bronze Dala horse, gifted by the Swedish community, stands as a public symbol of friendship and cultural respect.
The Scandinavian Club of Gran Canaria
Founded over 50 years ago, the Scandinavian Club of Gran Canaria continues to thrive. This club offers a rich calendar of events, from chess evenings to cultural lectures and film nights. While it welcomes all Nordic nationals, Swedes make up a strong portion of its members.
Its facilities include a small library, reading spaces, and group rooms. For anyone looking to connect with fellow Swedes on the island, it is a must-visit hub of activity and tradition.
Loopy’s Restaurant – A Pioneering Spirit
Loopy’s, established in San Agustín in 1972 by Swedish entrepreneur Gunnar Suneson, became a legendary dining venue. Although the original establishment has changed, its impact remains. Loopy’s symbolized the bold Swedish spirit that helped shape the island’s tourism industry. It was more than a place to eat; it was a gathering point for travelers and dreamers.
That legacy continues in the Swedish hospitality found in many of the local establishments even today.
Sunshine and Surf All Year Long
Beyond the community life, Gran Canaria shines as a natural paradise. Thanks to its stable climate, temperatures remain between 20–25°C (68–77°F) even in winter. The island offers perfect conditions for surfing nearly every day of the year.
Popular surf spots near Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas are easily accessible. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned surfer, waves are always waiting. And after a morning in the water, there is no better way to unwind than enjoying a Swedish fika under the palm trees.
Conclusion: A Swedish Oasis in the Atlantic
Gran Canaria blends Swedish warmth with Canarian charm. From traditional church services and familiar food to cultural celebrations and surf-friendly shores, the island has become a true oasis for Swedes abroad.
Whether you’re escaping winter or exploring new cultural landscapes, Gran Canaria is a destination that speaks the language of comfort, adventure, and sun-drenched serenity.
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¡Qué lugar más encantador! Me encanta saber que Gran Canaria no solo ofrece un clima perfecto todo el año, sino también una comunidad sueca tan vibrante y acogedora. Los lugares que mencionas, como Svenska Baren, la Turistkyrkan y el Svenska Kyrkan en San Agustín, suenan como lugares ideales para sentirse como en casa. La idea de disfrutar de un “fika” sueco bajo las palmeras es simplemente irresistible. Sin duda, Gran Canaria es un destino que combina la aventura con la comodidad y la serenidad. ¡No puedo esperar para visitarlo!
¡Muchas gracias por tus palabras! Nos alegra saber que te ha gustado descubrir la faceta sueca de Gran Canaria. Svenska Baren, la Turistkyrkan y el Svenska Kyrkan en San Agustín son lugares emblemáticos que ofrecen un pedacito de Suecia bajo el sol canario. ¡Disfruta de un “fika” sueco bajo las palmeras y de las olas perfectas para surfear en nuestras costas! Estamos seguros de que te enamorarás de nuestra isla y de su comunidad acogedora. ¡No dudes en volver y compartir más experiencias con nosotros en SurfHouse!
What a wonderful place Gran Canaria seems to be! As a tourist, I’m drawn to the island’s perfect blend of Swedish culture and beautiful landscapes. The fact that it has a stable climate, making it ideal for surfing and outdoor activities all year round, is a huge plus. I’m particularly intrigued by the Swedish community on the island, with its vibrant cultural events, cozy cafes, and welcoming churches. The Svenska Baren in Playa del Inglés sounds like the perfect spot to relax and feel at home. I’m definitely adding Gran Canaria to my bucket list – it seems like a little slice of Sweden in the sun!
¡Hola! We’re thrilled to hear that Gran Canaria has caught your attention! You’re absolutely right, our island is a hidden gem that offers the perfect blend of stunning landscapes, a stable climate, and a vibrant Swedish community.
If you’re looking for a taste of Sweden in the sun, you’ve come to the right place! From Svenska Baren in Playa del Inglés to the Svenska Kyrkan in San Agustín, there are plenty of cozy spots to experience the warmth of Swedish culture. And, of course, the surfing and outdoor activities are simply unbeatable.
We’d love to have you visit us and experience it all for yourself! Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Gran Canaria has something for everyone. And who knows, you might just find your new favorite spot to catch some waves and enjoy a Swedish fika under the palm trees.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need more insider tips on what to do and see during your stay. We can’t wait to welcome you to SurfHouse and share the beauty of Gran Canaria with you!
What a wonderful article about Gran Canaria! As a tourist who’s had the pleasure of visiting this beautiful island, I can attest to its unique charm. The blend of Swedish culture with the island’s stunning natural beauty is truly special. I’ve had the chance to experience the warmth of the Swedish community here, from enjoying a cozy fika at Svenska Baren to exploring the scenic beaches and surfing spots. The island’s stable climate and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a relaxing and culturally rich getaway. If you’re looking for a place to feel at home under the sun, Gran Canaria is definitely worth considering!
¡Qué artículo más maravilloso sobre Gran Canaria! Como turista que ha tenido el placer de visitar esta hermosa isla, puedo atestiguar su encanto único. La mezcla de la cultura sueca con la impresionante belleza natural de la isla es verdaderamente especial. He tenido la oportunidad de experimentar la calidez de la comunidad sueca aquí, desde disfrutar de un acogedor fika en Svenska Baren hasta explorar las playas escénicas y los lugares de surf. El clima estable de la isla y su atmósfera acogedora la convierten en un destino ideal para cualquiera que busque un getaway relajante y culturalmente rico. Si estás buscando un lugar para sentirte en casa bajo el sol, Gran Canaria definitivamente vale la pena considerarla.
¡Espero que disfrutes de tu estancia en SurfHouse y que puedas experimentar todo lo que Gran Canaria tiene que ofrecer! ¿Te gustaría saber más sobre los mejores spots de surf en la isla o recomendaciones para disfrutar de un auténtico fika sueco?
What a wonderful post! As a tourist who has recently visited Gran Canaria, I can attest to the island’s unique charm and its strong Swedish connection. The warmth and hospitality of the Swedish community on the island are truly remarkable. From the moment I stepped into Svenska Baren in Playa del Inglés, I felt like I was in a little slice of Sweden. The cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and lively discussions about Swedish football made me feel right at home. I also had the chance to visit the Turistkyrkan, where I enjoyed a lovely “fika” with live music and met some fellow travelers.
The island’s stable climate and beautiful beaches made it the perfect destination for me, and I can see why it’s a popular spot for Swedish tourists. The Scandinavian Club of Gran Canaria and the Svenska Kyrkan in San Agustín are great places to connect with the Swedish community and experience the island’s cultural events.
Overall, Gran Canaria is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of Swedish warmth and Canarian charm. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a sunny and culturally rich destination. Bästa hälsningar från Gran Canaria! (Best regards from Gran Canaria!)
I’m glad you enjoyed our post about Gran Canaria’s unique Swedish connection! It’s great to hear about your own experiences on the island, especially your visit to Svenska Baren and the Turistkyrkan. The warmth and hospitality of the Swedish community on Gran Canaria are indeed something special.
If you’re looking for more surf and sun, Gran Canaria has plenty to offer. The island’s beaches are perfect for a relaxing day out, and the waves are great for surfers of all levels. And when you’re not in the water, be sure to check out some of the local Swedish spots, like Svenska Baren or the Svenska Kyrkan in San Agustín.
Thanks for sharing your experiences, and we hope to welcome you back to SurfHouse and Gran Canaria soon! Tack så mycket för ditt besök! (Thanks so much for your visit!)
What a wonderful post! As a tourist, I can attest that Gran Canaria is indeed a hidden gem. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the island and experiencing its unique blend of Swedish and Canarian culture. The Svenska Baren in Playa del Inglés is a must-visit, and the Turistkyrkan is a beautiful place to connect with like-minded travelers. The island’s warm climate and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal destination for surfers and sun-seekers alike. I’m already planning my next trip back to Gran Canaria!
Thank you so much for your wonderful comment! We’re thrilled to hear that you’ve experienced the unique blend of Swedish and Canarian culture on the island. Svenska Baren and Turistkyrkan are indeed must-visit spots, and we’re glad you’ve had the chance to enjoy them.
If you’re already planning your next trip back to Gran Canaria, we’re excited to welcome you back to SurfHouse! We hope you’ll have more opportunities to enjoy the island’s stunning natural beauty, warm climate, and of course, world-class surfing.
By the way, have you tried surfing on the island yet? We’d be happy to provide you with some insider tips on the best surf spots and schools. Can’t wait to see you back on the island, catching some waves and soaking up the sun!