If you’re after a superb Spanish holiday, a trip to one of the many Spanish islands is in order. The Canary Islands sit just off the coast of north-western Africa, and the islands enjoy an amazing climate throughout the year along with excellent activities and adventures abound.
There are seven islands included in the archipelago:
- Lanzarote
- Fuerteventura
- Gran Canaria
- Tenerife
- La Palma
- La Gomera
- El Hierro
Each island comes with its own culture, so guests can experience something completely different on every one.
To understand just how amazing these islands are, let’s look at the four most popular ones in more detail:
Lanzarote
This island is most famous for its incredible landscape. It was caused by a mammoth volcanic eruption on the island in 1730, which caused a huge mountain to erupt from the earth. Lava covered almost a quarter of the island, causing the beautiful black sand beaches that can now be found in Lanzarote.
Beaches
Lanzarote is home to some of the Canary Islands’ finest beaches, including a combination of black sand and pale sand beaches. It’s thought that Lanzarote’s finest beaches are located around Punta del Papagayo in the south of the island, and Caleta de Famara in the north.
Attractions
Possibly the biggest and best attraction on Lanzarote is Timanfaya National Park, where you can easily see the effects of the island’s volcanic history. There’s a visitor centre in the park, along with walking routes that follow the ancient lava trails.
Fuerteventura
This is the most historic of the Canary Islands. Fuerteventura has an incredibly diverse landscape and much effort is being made to save the many endangered animals living on the island. It’s also full to the brim with beautiful beaches.
Beaches
Fuerteventura has around 150 beaches to choose from, so you won’t be short of options. Surfing is incredibly popular on the west coast of the island, but you can also try out the beaches in the south-east which are ideal for those after a spot of sunbathing.
Attractions
Betancuria Church is a stunning example of Spanish baroque architecture and is well worth a visit. The island’s sand dunes in the north, which are called Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo, are a sight for sore eyes, looking uncannily like those found in the Sahara.
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is one of the most-visited Canary Islands and is packed with a mixture of attractions and things to do, so you’ll never have a dull moment when staying there. Whether you choose to relax on the beach, surf or check out the local attractions, you’re guaranteed a good stay.
Beaches
While there are many beaches in Gran Canaria, the favourites for locals and tourists alike are definitely Las Canteras beach and Playa de Maspalomas. At Las Canteras beach you can swim in the still, clear waters of the ocean as if it were a swimming pool thanks to the island’s breakwater. Playa de Maspalomas is home to stunning sand dunes and an absolutely huge beach stretching as far as the eye can see.
Attractions
The Viera y Clavijo Botanic Garden in Gran Canaria is the largest in the whole of Spain and has international importance for its careful attention to endangered flora and fauna. In the centre of the island you’ll find Roque Nublo, the remnants of the ancient volcano that helped to form Gran Canaria over four million years ago.
Tenerife
As one of the hotspots for British tourists, Tenerife has long been on our radar for amazing holidays. It’s not just nightlife and beaches you can look forward to in Tenerife though, as there are also some beautiful national parks, towering volcanos, excellent hiking trails and opportunities for whale and dolphin watching.
Beaches
Playa de San Roque is a fantastic surfing beach in Tenerife that’s incredibly popular with all those that visit. Families will enjoy Playa de Las Vistas. For something more secluded though, choose El Bollullo, which can only be accessed by a bus ride, a walk and a climb down some steep steps. The views over the Atlantic are well worth it though!
Attractions
Mount Teide is Spain’s tallest peak and a dormant volcano. You may ride the cable car to the summit to see the sights, Or, you might face the difficulty of ascending to the summit. The Taganana and Parque Rural de Anaga national parks are also a treat. Siam Park, a family friendly water park is well-worth a visit as well.
Canaries activities
Each island will come with its own set of activities that can be pursued during your stay, but as a general rule you can try:
Scuba diving
Surfing
Kayaking
Jet Skiing
Cycling
Paragliding
Fishing
Quad biking
… and much more!
The Spanish islands as a whole make for amazing holidays, so whether you decide to stay in the Canary Islands, Balearic Islands or any of the other islands, you’ll have a fantastic time.
