The Canary Islands, close to the African coast, perfectly combine the sunny golden beaches with particular volcanic areas. They are an excellent travel option for all those who are well informed and looking for a more special recommendation for their vacation. The cluster of Spanish islands is washed by the Atlantic Ocean and belongs geopolitically to the country of Spain. However, the Canary Islands are only 100 km away off the west coast of the African continent. That is why they are a unique combination of Mediterranean and African landscapes. The islands that stand out are Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Tenerife and Lanzarote. Gran Canaria is just 4 hours by plane from Europe (from London, Zurich and Barcelona).
Lanzarote in the Canary Islands – Photo by stella bogdanic from FreeImages
1 Miniature of Continents
The Canary Islands are considered by many to be a miniature of continents. In Lanzarote, the images are reminiscent of the volcanic origin of the islands. To the west of the island is the Timanfaya National Park which is paved with lava and is protected by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve. The landscape of the islands changes drastically in just a few kilometres. Desert areas, tropical beaches, dense forests and more than 60 lakes contribute to the overall landscape.
In winter in the northern mountains, you can see their snow-covered slopes, while at the same time on the south side you can swim on a beach shore. Following the road to the north, in 40 minutes you can reach Tafira by car. There you will find a green oasis, densely palm trees and a Botanical Garden. There are plants that you won’t find anywhere else in the world and hundreds of endemic plants that can be found only in this place.
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The Beaches
The Canary Islands are famous for their beaches (and not unjustly), as they consist entirely of countless golden beaches. Do you want to be on a noisy beach, drinking cold beers and enjoying carefree moments under the sun all day? Do you want to have more privacy, and do you like quieter situations? Here there are beaches for all tastes and for every taste. In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria there are five beaches, the most famous being Las Canteras, where the day passes by surfing and having fun. Nevertheless, if you belong to the second category, try El Confital, whose landscape is wilder, but equally seductive.
the beaches in the Canary Islands – photo by Nelly Freitas
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High Temperature Every Season of the Year
The Canary Islands are known as the islands of eternal spring. They have one of the best climates in the world, with an average annual temperature of 21 º C. Plenty of sunshine and chilly winds contribute to their climate. In winter you will experience it at 20 º C to 22 º C in the northern part of the island. The other three seasons the temperature is between 25 º C and 32 º C. Whatever season you visit the Canary Islands, your suitcase should contain light and cool clothes. Such a bummer, I know.
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Attractions and Activities
Dolphin shows, golf, whale watching, climbing, mountain biking, diving, surfing are some of the dozens of things you can do. If we have to single something out, this would be the first underwater museum in Europe. These are underwater human sculptures made by the British artist Jason Decker Taylor. Using a mask and a snorkel, you can tour this beautiful and unusual museum. The Canary Islands are an ideal destination for every taste; something that few islands can claim. And that tastes offers plenty to eat with these 5 must eats in Tenerife
Transportation to the Canary Islands, on the other hand, is limited. Of course, public transport routes are minimal and don’t cover the entire area of the island. So the best solution for your travels would be a rental car. A rental car will allow you to explore every inch of the Islands, discovering even the last secret of these areas. So if you are looking for car hire in the Canary Islands, Enjoy Travel can offer you dozens of budget car options that will meet all your needs for safe and comfortable transportation on the island.
Surfing is a popular activity on the Canary Islands photo by rubenshito
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You Can Visit More than One Island
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is the most popular of the Canary Islands, receiving more than 3 million holidaymakers each year. It is the capital of Las Palmas and is located in the northern part of the island, in a fantastic location consisting of two bays and their beautiful beaches, Playa de las Canteras and Playa de las Alcaravaneras. Gran Canaria lives for sport, with surfing at the top of its residents’ preferences. Sporters are trekking in the wooded mountain landscape of Tamadaba Natural Park, and road trip fans patiently swing in the dozens of zigzags leading to San Nicolas Harbor.
Tenerife
It houses cosmopolitan cities with historical centres, small villages, rural areas and picturesque fishing villages. The capital is a modern metropolis with imposing buildings, traffic, but also stunning modern architecture. Tenerife is the only island that has a range from traditional to avant-garde restaurants, being the only island with Michelin-star restaurants. A unique culture, a mixture of Spanish and South American with African influences, the days in Tenerife end in an endless journey of colourful fiestas and celebrations.
Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is the oldest island with the most turbulent winds. It is considered an earthly paradise for windsurfers and kiteboarders, but it is also suitable for those who just want to recharge under the sun. The white beaches of Fuerteventura, relatively pristine, are ideal for seclusion in the dunes.
So there you have 5 great reasons to plan your trip to the Canary Islands? Are you making the trip next year?
