Map of Canary Islands

Located approximately 100 kilometers off the northwest coast of Africa is the Spanish archipelago of the Canary Islands. Although these volcanic outcroppings have been inhabited since pre-historic times, it was the Gaunches who permanently settled the islands around 1000 BC. Over the ages, the Canary Islands have been visited by sailors and tradesman from Carthage, Rome, Phoenicia and the Arab countries. The islands were conquered by Spain and used as a way station for galleons. It was here that ships carrying the Conquistadors would pick up the easterly trade winds that would carry them to the New World. The Canary Islands would defend themselves against British and French invasions in the early 19th Century and play a role in Francisco Franco’s takeover of Spain in the mid-20th. Today, the Insula Canaria, Latin for island of the dogs, are a self governing autonomous community.

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La PalmaLa Palma Of the seven famous Canary Islands that dot the coast of Africa, La Palma is the fifth-largest and one of the most-visited. It is the most north-westerly of the islands. The capitol holds most of the island’s population in Santa Cruz de la Palma. Just like all of its other sister islands, La Palma boast of an origin that is mostly volcanic….. To Explore La Palma click
La GomeraLa Gomera is the second smallest island of the Canaries. The Canaries are located approximately 80 miles off the coast of Africa, but they are, in both province and territories, Spanish. It sits in the Atlantic Ocean, as part of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The capitol is located in San Sebastian. La Gomera, like its sister islands, is mainly of a volcanic origin that provides both natural wonder for tourists and educational value for geologists and scientists who wish to study the famous volcanic plains of the island….. To Explore La Gomera click
El HierroEl Hierro The smallest island in the group is also one of the most beautiful. It is located off of the African coast and is a must see for everyone who loves to travel. You can enjoy El Hierro anytime because it is warm and sunny all year round. The island is stunning with rugged coastlines and mountainous landscape. It is home to some of the most unique animals in the world including the endangered El Hierro Lizard…… To Explore El Hierro click
Tenerife, Canary IslandsTenerife is not only the second most populated island of the Canary Island Chain, but is also one of the most popular with tourists. Each and every year, over four and a half million visitors flock to this island to partake in its unique bounty of culture, natural beauty and entertainment. Whether visitors come to the island to enjoy one of the largest carnivals in the world or the large concentration of cultural attractions, they are sure to leave the island with a huge smile on their face…… To Explore Tenerife click
Gran Canaria, Canary IslandsGran Canaria of the Canary Islands, has a population of over 1 million people. This makes Gran Canaria the most heavily populated island in Spain. The island is located about 93 miles off of the northwest coast of Africa and 838 miles to the south of Europe. The island’s capital is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria which is also both the largest city and the capital of the Canary Islands at large…… To Explore Gran Canaria click
Fuerteventura, Canary IslandsFuerteventura is the second largest island of the Canaries, second only to Tenerife. Home to the longest beaches, sun and surf lovers from around the world flock to the island every year. The island is known as ‘the island of eternal spring’ due to its pleasant, year-round climate. An average temperature of 35 C (95 F) in the summer months is rivaled by an average of 22 C (72 F) in the winter. October sees the highest rainfall, with the rest of the year being fairly dry…… To Explore Fuerteventura click
Lanzarote, Canary IslandsLanzarote is a Spanish Island that comprises the easternmost section of the Canary Islands, off the Coast of Africa. The islands sit in the Atlantic Ocean, and are not only beautiful in both scenery and climate, but they also provide great places to visit, full of culture and history. The island is volcanic in its origin, and the climate is perfect for visiting all year round. Because of the dry climate and subsequent lack of erosion on the island, the eruptions from the volcanoes during the 18th and 19th centuries,….. To Explore Lanzarote click

The archipelago consists of seven main islands plus several smaller ones. One of the main islands is Tenerife. It boasts the highest mountain in Spain and is the country’s most populated island. The mountain is the Teide volcano, a World Heritage Site and the third largest island volcano on Earth. It is on this island that you will find the modern and iconic Auditorio de Tenerife and the major tourist attraction of the Teide National Park. The island of Fuerteventura is a UNESCO biosphere reserve and is the oldest inhabited of the Canary Islands. Gran Canaria hosts the Maspalomas Dunes, a popular tourist attraction. The island city of La Palma is home to numerous museums that display Canary Island artifacts and reveal the storied history of the islands. The other islands are also home to museums, national parks and historic landmarks. Each island displays in its own way the unique history as well as the natural beauty of the flora and fauna of the islands.

Guests will enjoy the unique sport of Canarian style wrestling and the cuisine of roasted fish, the papas arrugades potato dish and, of course, the local mojo sauce which is the ancestral basis for all Latin American and Caribbean mojo sauces.

Due to its location, the Canary Islands have a subtropical climate that produces long hot summer days and cooler winter days. With this marvelous climate, natural wonders and beaches, the Canary Islands are a major tourist destination attracting over 12 million visitors per year.

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El Hierro, Canary Islands


If you are planning a holiday you should travel to El Hierro, Canary Islands. The smallest island in the group is also one of the most beautiful. It is located off of the African coast and is a must see for everyone who loves to travel. You can enjoy El Hierro anytime because it is warm and sunny all year round. The island is stunning with rugged coastlines and mountainous landscape. It is home to some of the most unique animals in the world including the endangered El Hierro Lizard. Unlike most islands, El Hierro is full of large forests that are home to the Canary Island pines and wax myrtles. The thousand year old junipers grow up to 70 centimetres tall and are an amazing sight to see.

Natural Lava Stone Arch, El Hierro, Canary IslandsWhat attracts visitors to the island is the beautiful cliffs and abundant sea life. It is one of the most famous destinations in the world for scuba divers and snorkelers. The island has over 25 diving sites that are recognized all over the world and the visibility is amazing because the waters are incredibly deep. Divers and snorkelers had better take their underwater camera’s because they will see spiny globefish, black sea bream, trumpet fish and black coral. Hammerhead sharks have been spotted along with giant rays, triggerfish and tuna. One of the most popular diving spots on El Hierro is Mar Las Calmas as the sea is very calm.

Other popular activities on the island include rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, cave exploration and wind surfing. If you want to see the entire island you must hire a car or take a taxi. Most of the tiny villages have a personal taxi driver who would be glad to show you around the island.

If you like to hike you must travel to Pozo De Las Calcosas and Charco Manso. Both are located on the north coast of the island and have naturally formed swimming pools. Even the houses are built with stone. Be sure to take your hiking boots as the only access is straight down the cliff on a narrow path.


Valverde is the islands capital and has traditional restaurants where you can dine on fresh fish and traditional tapas. Stay the night at one of the quaint hotels or book a local bed and breakfast.

El Hierro Canary Islands is a holiday that everyone should experience. Grab your partner, your family or your friends and head to one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.

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Lanzarote, Canary Islands


Lanzarote is a Spanish Island that comprises the easternmost section of the Canary Islands, off the Coast of Africa. The islands sit in the Atlantic Ocean, and are not only beautiful in both scenery and climate, but they also provide great places to visit, full of culture and history. The island is volcanic in its origin, and the climate is perfect for visiting all year round. Because of the dry climate and subsequent lack of erosion on the island, the eruptions from the volcanoes during the 18th and 19th centuries, in many ways appears to be the same as it did shortly after it erupted. It is a natural monument to Lanzarote’s history.

Los Hervideros, Lanzarote, Canary IslandsLanzarote is considered in theory to be the first Canary Island that was settled. Phoenicians settled there in 1100 B.C. The first known record of the island is from Pliny the Elder’s writing, in which he names five of the Canary Islands. In 1336 a ship arrived from Lisbon and a fort was erected. In 1402 slavery was brought to the island. For 2,053 days, the island was rocked by a series of violent volcanic eruptions. Since then the volcanoes have been mercifully silent, but their hard volcanic plains are considered a natural wonder for both tourist and geologists alike.

The volcanic origin of the island does not conquer the entire theme, however. There are great beautiful, sandy white beaches like Playa Blanca and Papagayo. Something that sets Lanzarote aside as a unique community is the fact that no high rises can be built and no billboards or unsightly advertisements can be erected that obstructs the natural beauty of the island.

Because of the crisp, clean waters that surround the island 79 miles off the coast of Africa, Scuba Diving enthusiasts find it a perfect place to explore. Manta Diving Lanzarote is an English-owned scuba diving centre that’s both fun and safe. Timanfaya National Park is the place where you can visit to see the incredible volcanic wasteland, a reminder of the power of nature. Fundacion Cesar Manrique is a historic site that was the home of a famous Spanish artist. The Rancho Texas Park is an amusement park that is sure to amuse all ages. The Mirador del Rio is an observation and lookout point, built over several levels into an awe-inspiring volcanic rock cliff. It also overlooks a neighboring Canary Island. The Jardin de Cactus is a giant cactus garden, the perfect natural display for a climate as dry as Lanzarote’s. You’ll find every sort of cacti here, just remember not to touch!


Lodging in Lanzarote is no problem. From the Albatros Club to the Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort, the accommodations are fitting for beautiful island. Las Costas in Puerta Del Carmen is beautiful and located in a quiet, relaxing spot, and the La Bresas resort at the Playa Banca Beach is the perfect getaway.

Lanzarote is a unique place to visit. It gives you both a taste of island living and cultural history.

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Gran Canaria, Canry Islands


Gran Canaria, of the Canary Islands, has a population of over 1 million people. This makes Gran Canaria the most heavily populated island in Spain. The island is located about 93 miles off of the northwest coast of Africa and 838 miles to the south of Europe. The island’s capital is Las Palmas de Gran Canaria which is also both the largest city and the capital of the Canary Islands at large.

The island was first settled as early as 500 BC by the Canarii. Orginally called Tamaran (Land of the Brave), Gran Canaria was conquered by the Kingdom of Castile in 1483. In 1492, Christopher Columbus docked in the Port of Las Palmas en route to the Americas. The island has been a part of Spain since this very early conquest.

Sunset, Puerto De Mogan, Gran Canaria, Canary IslandsThe climate of the city is noted for its variety. The coasts rarely see frost or snow, though the mountain ranges on the inner part of the island do. Some areas of the island see heavy rainfall while other areas see barely any rainfall at all. The southern part of the island is the most favorable during the summer months when the temperature averages in the upper 70s to low 80s F (24-27 C).

If you plan on visiting Gran Canaria, you can count yourself among the 2.2 million visitors to the island each year. Most of the tourists flock to the south coast so, if you’re intending on a less crowded atmosphere, you may want to head to one of the other coasts. While in Gran Canaria, there is much to see and do.

The Palmitos Park is a large bird park located in the south. Visitors can see birds native to the region that they may not see again in their lifetime. The Dunes of Maspalomas are a popular destination as is the lighthouse located nearby. If you love nature, you’ll adore Gran Canaria! With its many rocky outcroppings, mountains and forests, those tourists seeking outdoor adventure won’t be disappointed.

While on Gran Canaria, be sure to visit the town of Aguimes. Located on the eastern part of the island, the town has been restored to reflect the atmosphere of a quiet, traditional island center. Aguimes is home to well-preserved cave dwellings, Guayadeque Ravine and a church built directly into the hillside. The cave restaurants in Aguimes are worth the trip alone not to mention not to mention the scuba diving opportunities at the marine reserve.


The miles of beaches, acres of forest and bustling night life may just make Gran Canaria the best choice of island destinations! No matter what time of year you decide to vacation, you’ll find that the climate supports any and all activities on the island. Whether you stay at a resort or a smaller, more quaint hotel, you’re sure to have the time of your life on Gran Canaria.

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La Gomera, Canary Islands


La Gomera is the second smallest island of the Canaries. The Canaries are located approximately 80 miles off the coast of Africa, but they are, in both province and territories, Spanish. It sits in the Atlantic Ocean, as part of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The capitol is located in San Sebastian. La Gomera, like its sister islands, is mainly of a volcanic origin that provides both natural wonder for tourists and educational value for geologists and scientists who wish to study the famous volcanic plains of the island.

San Sebastian, La Gomera, Canary, IslandsThe inhabitants of La Gomera have several traits linked to their island that are unique to the rest of the Canary Islands. They have a special way of communicating with each other across the deep ravines, or Barrancos, that the volcanic eruptions of the past have formed. This communication system is known as Silbo Gomero, which is a type of whistling dialect unique to that area of the world. Although the Canaries were settled by those who came from Lisbon in 1336, then by Spain later on, the islands still retain their aboriginal heritage. In 1489, the natives that inhabited La Gomera faced defeat at the hands of the influx of settling Spaniards. They fled to the mountains of La Gomera and prayed to their god to deliver them from their enemies. Today, the mountains serve as the center of the island, and archaeologists have unearthed numerous relics and sites that indicate that the site was indeed very sacred to the natives of the island.

An interesting historical fact about this Canary Island is that Christopher Columbus made La Gomera his port of call before he was to cross the Atlantic Ocean in 1492. He was romantically attached to the then governor, Beatriz de Bobadilla y Ossario, and she gave him sugarcane, which in turn became the first to reach the New World.

The climate of La Gomera is generally dry, mirroring its large volcanic landscape. However, the mountains contained within the territory yield a dense, jungle-like climate, while the cliffs can be humid and sweltering.


The North of La Gomera showcases not only the beautiful ocean, but great villages and cities that depict the rich culture of the island. Hermigua is a romantic little village that’s beautiful to visit. The most popular destination in La Gomera, however, is the Valle Gran Rey, which is the legendary valley of the Great King. It’s historical and entertaining. Agulo is not to be forgotten. The valley boasts colonial housing structures and crooked streets that echo of days past, when Spanish settlers occupied the island. Also, due to the strategic placing of the island on the coast, you can indulge in whale-watching. La Gomera has everything from lush, rugged mountain ranges and beautiful blue oceans to misty tropical rain forests and historical points of interest. The volcanic wonders of the island are a great way for any family to examine the power of Mother Nature. La Gomera is a wonderful island to visit.

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La Palma, Canary Islands


Of the seven famous Canary Islands that dot the coast of Africa, La Palma is the fifth-largest and one of the most-visited. It is the most north-westerly of the islands. The capitol holds most of the island’s population in Santa Cruz de la Palma. Just like all of its other sister islands, La Palma boast of an origin that is mostly volcanic. The island itself rises four miles out of the Atlantic Ocean. Out of all seven of the Canary Islands, La Palma is the most volcanically active. Since the Spanish occupied the islands in the 1400s, there have been seven recorded eruptions, the most recent eruption occurring in 1971. Since then there has been at least one tsunami hoax that was broadcast on the BBC radio.

Coastline of La Palma, Canary IslandsDuring the period of European Colonization, the Canary Islands were inhabited by Canarians, or as they were then called, Guanches. However, the natives of La Palma are more specifically referred to as, Auaritas. The original origins of these aborigines are unclear, but it is theorize that they descended from the Berbers of Northern Africa. While many historians believe that the Canary Islands were known to exist by both the Phoenicians and the Greeks, the earliest record of the islands was by the Roman Pliny the Elder. From 1405 to 1493 the natives fought the Spanish settlement in many violent and bloody battles until the natives were ultimately conquered by Spain. Alonso Fernandez de Lugo initially defeated the island’s last king, Tanausu. The island grew to become a prosperous trading post on the way to the New World and drew immigrants from all over Europe.

Much of the tourism that permeates the island are those who come to look at the “Flora and the Fauna,” or the stunning natural beauty of the island. Like the other Canaries, La Palma’s climate is quite dry. However, the terrain ranges from huge mountains and volcanic craters to forests and white sand beaches with blue water. They have a rich variety of plants, insects and animals. Some of the plants are even protected by law.


Roque de las Muchachos is the highest point on La Palma. It is so named after a small group of rocks at the top of the point, which comprise the “muchachos.” It contains an observatory, but the road is closed from sunset to sunrise because car headlights interfere with observations. Garafia is a small region that contains many even smaller towns to visit, such as Santa Domingo de Garafia, Las Tricias, El Tobaldo, Llano Negro, Don Pedro and El Castillo. Puerto Naos is the first of two tourist villages on La Palma. There are lots of restaurants and tourist shops to visit here. There is also a beautiful Black Sand Beach and the Hotel Sol Elite, the best lodging on the island. The most-visited spot, however, is Santa Cruz, the island’s capitol. This city has many winding streets, quaint cafes, shops and attractions. There is even a replication of the famous Santa Maria.

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Fuerteventura, Canary Islands


Fuerteventura is one of the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean just off of the coast of Africa. As with the rest of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura is under Spanish rule but, unlike any other Canary Island, was named a biosphere reserve in 2009 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

The island was first settled by the Maho people of North Africa. These early peoples lived in subterranean dwellings and caves, many of which have been excavated. Relics and pottery found in these excavations have given historians an idea of early life on the island. In 1405, the island was conquered by the French and named Betancuria. It wasn’t until 1927 that Fuerteventura became a part of the Canary Islands.

Coast of Fuerteventura, Canary IslandsFuerteventura is the second largest island of the Canaries, second only to Tenerife. Home to the longest beaches, sun and surf lovers from around the world flock to the island every year. The island is known as ‘the island of eternal spring’ due to its pleasant, year-round climate. An average temperature of 35 C (95 F) in the summer months is rivaled by an average of 22 C (72 F) in the winter. October sees the highest rainfall, with the rest of the year being fairly dry. The Calima sandstorm brings with it high temperatures and very dry air. The Calima often brings African locusts to Fuerteventura which are otherwise not present.

The island is home to a diverse array of wildlife. The threatened Canarian Egyptian Vulture is found here as are wild dogs and cats. Geckos, squirrels and migratory birds are in abundance and a large number of insects reside here. Insects and birds tend to congregate around resorts and other holiday developments, probably because of the ready availability of food and water. Visitors to the dunes of the island may spot the stunning blue banded bee or the caterpillar hunting wasp. Both of which are native to the island.

Tourists to the island should be sure to visit Corralejo; made up of a long beach, sand dune and remote bay. Surfers particularly enjoy Corralejo as its constant, steady winds provide waves year round. Cofete is home to the Villa Winter, a striking home that is bordered by empty beaches making it a rather lonesome residence. Naval buffs will want to visit the site of the SS American Star: in 1994 the ship beached in Playa de Garcey, collapsed to one side in 2007 and finally slipped completely under the surface in 2008.


Even though Fuerteventura is the second largest island in the Canary Islands chain, it is not as attractive to tourists as some of the other islands. This may make it the perfect holiday destination for those that desire a less crowded atmosphere. The long beaches and vast array of wildlife are sure to be attractive to nature lovers around the world.

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Spain’s Regions


Spain’s constituent regions aren’t states or provinces, as in many other countries of the world, but autonomous communities. This political distinction results from the profound differences in culture within the country’s borders. Several of the regions have their own language, all have their own food, and many have their own storied histories as ancient, proud civilizations.

El País Vasco, or Basque Country, is perhaps the most famously independent of Spain’s autonomous communities. The Basque language is notoriously difficult to learn. Luckily Spanish is widely spoken, but any effort to communicate in Basque is appreciated by locals. San Sebastian is the area’s top destination, thanks to its breathtaking Atlantic shores and its reputation as the best producer of the region’s unique food. A local specialty worth sampling is sidra, a slightly alcoholic apple cider.

Spain’s other famously independent region, Catalonia, is located on the country’s eastern shore. Its language, Catalan, is easily learned by Spanish speakers. Barcelona is known for the many structures by famous modern architect Antoni Gaudí, whose style permeates this well-planned regional capital. The beaches of this cosmopolitan city nicely complement the region’s ski resorts to the north and nature reserves to the south.

Andalucia is the intersection of all the finest aspects of Spanish culture, from food to music to architecture. The region invented tapas and is the world’s largest producer of olive oil, while the city of Sevilla is known as the home of flamenco music and dance. This southern region of Spain enjoys a rich Moorish history; sites such as the Great Mosque of Córdoba and La Alhmabra of Granada exhibit the height of Arab art and architecture from the Middle Ages.

El Comunidad de Madrid consists of the city of Madrid and its surrounding towns. Despite being the home of Spain’s central government and the Royal Palace, Cathedral, and Gardens, Madrid is best known for its nightlife. The neighborhoods of Huertas and La Latina are filled with revelers at all hours of the night as they scour the city for the best bars and dance clubs.


Even Spain’s less famous regions have their own defining characteristics. Valencia is the birthplace of paella, La Rioja is famous for its red wines, and the windmills of Castilla La Mancha were immortalized in Don Quixote. One of Spain’s ancient kingdoms, Galicia adds another regional tongue, Galician, to the tally of official languages, and another famous dish, empanadas, to the nation’s cuisine. Aragon, another such kingdom, houses a wealth of historical artifacts from the Middle Ages, while Cantabria is home to more Stone Age archaeological sites than anywhere else in the world. In Navarre’s largest city, Pamplona, locals and tourists alike run through the narrow streets with bulls during the Feast of San Fermin, and with its soaring mountains and dramatic rocky coastline, Asturias is considered the most beautiful part of the country.

Thanks to the linguistic, culinary, architectural and artistic diversity displayed across Spain’s autonomous communities, a trip to this one country can feel like a tour of over a dozen different nations.

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Tenerife, Canary Islands

Tenerife Canary Islands is not only the second most populated island of the Canary Island Chain, but is also one of the most popular with tourists. Each and every year, over four and a half million visitors flock to this island to partake in its unique bounty of culture, natural beauty and entertainment. Whether visitors come to the island to enjoy one of the largest carnivals in the world or the large concentration of cultural attractions, they are sure to leave the island with a huge smile on their face.

One of the best things about the Tenerife is the island has some of the mildest weather in all the world. The island enjoys a mean temperature of 18 degrees Celsius, thanks to the interplay between the warm Trade Winds and the colder Gulf current. This gives the island warm summers that are neither hot nor extremely humid.

One of the first things that tourists will first notice when they land on the Tenerife is the wide diversity of the beaches located there. One of the most popular beaches on the island is El Puertito. This man-made beach is a favorite among sunbathers on the island but is also known as being the centerpiece of Tenerife culture. At this beach, tourists will find antiquated white washed buildings, brightly hued fishing boats and several fish markets. For those looking to take in the quiet fisherman culture of the island will really want to visit El Puertito. Other beaches that are popular on Tenerife include Playa Grande, Playa de los Abriguitos and Playa de Los Cristianos.

Sunbathing and taking in local culture isn’t the only activities available for tourists on the island, however. There are also many activities directed at those who have a passion for the nightlife.Travelers to the island will find many exceptional nightclubs, bars and Tenerife restaurants that will keep a visitor’s itinerary exciting.

The crown jewel of the Tenerife night scene is the annual carnival they hold ever February. This carnival attracts millions of visitors each year and is one of the largest carnivals in the world, second only to Rio de Janeiro’s carnival. Party goers of the Tenerife Carnival will be captivated by the brightly colored costumes, the rambunctious partying and the seemingly endless dancing. Those visitors who are experiencing the carnival for the first time may feel a bit overwhelmed initially, but will soon find themselves drawn into the center of the action.

Other popular tourist attractions on the Tenerife that highlight its unique and natural topography include Teide National Park,Barranco del Infierno (Hell’s Ravine) and Icod de los Vinos. There are also a number of theme parks open to the general public. Some of the most intriquing parks include Loro Parque (Parrot Park), Aqualand Water Park, Las Aguilas Park, Amazonia and Camel Park.

Thinking of heading to Tenerife and the beautiful Canary Islands? Then for more information check out My Destination Tenerife for a more in depth look of the happenings and attractions that await on this island in the sun.

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Canary Islands


Located just off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are a Spanish chain of islands rich in culture and agriculture. The Canary Islands are made up of 7 large island and several smaller islands. Each has its own distinctive landscape, although the climate of the area remains relatively the same throughout. Subtropical in nature, the climate provides comfortable year round temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and sunbathing. The islands of Gran Canaria, La Palma, and Tenerife have more frequent tropical showers, while Lanzarote and Fuerteventura see less rainfall and more sunshine.

Dating back to ancient times, scholars believed that the Canary Islands hid the mythical sunken city of Atlantis. The heritage of the islands has Celtic, Basque, and Nordic roots, although the first true settlers of the area were from the Libyan-Berber tribes of North Africa. Due to the cultural diversity, the islands feature cuisine distinctive to the region including Spanish recipes with African and Latin-American influences. Because of the fertile land and bountiful ocean, fresh vegetables and seafood dishes are right at home.

Those seeking the beach life have plenty of options in the Canary Islands. For golden sand beaches, guests can visit Sotavento on Fuerteventura. Windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions are perfect on this sunny beach. For those looking for unique black sandy beaches, Puerto Naos on La Palma won’t disappoint. Los Cristianos on Tenerife provides calm waves and family friendly fun.


Canary Islands also offer numerous day excursions showcasing the landscape and history of the land. Guests visiting Gran Canaria can travel to the village of Teror and witness for themselves the breathtaking views of the city that is 575 meters above sea level. From there, travel northwest to Santa Maria de Guia and visit the Cenobio de Valeron, a group of caves enclosed by petrified lava. On Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, guests can visit Mount Teide. Mount Teide is the highest mountain in all of Spain and is also a volcano. Traveling by car and on foot, guests will be able to see still active parts of the volcano and witness nature’s fury first hand. On La Palma, prehistoric cave drawings will enthrall guests at Cueva de Belmaco in the village of Mazo. Fuencacaliente on La Palma shows the rugged fertility of the land by displaying its fine vineyards next to its volcanic craters. On the island of Lo Gomera, inhabitants of the different valleys use a whistling language similar to yodeling to communicate with each other.

Diverse in culture, history, geography, and climate, the Canary Islands are worth exploring. Beautiful beaches, volcanic craters, fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables await visitors on these quaint islands. Although a part of Spain, visitors to the Canary Islands will learn about numerous cultures and perhaps leave with a better appreciation of the land and its magic.

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