Nestled in the crystalline waters of the Atlantic Ocean lies a hidden gem that’s just a short trip from mainland Europe – the Canary Islands. With a total of seven islands, each boasting their own unique blend of culture, landscapes, and activities, it’s no wonder why this Spanish archipelago is a must-visit destination for travelers. From the rugged volcanic terrain of Lanzarote to the lush greenery of La Palma, visitors are guaranteed to be mesmerized by the beauty of the Canary Islands. Join us as we explore what makes this tropical paradise stand out and why you should add it to your travel bucket list.
The Canary Islands is a popular destination among the glitterati for a reason. The autonomous community of Spain boasts of seven main islands, each with its own unique attraction. However, Tenerife, with its warm hospitality and popular cultural immersions, is a big attraction for most vacationers seeking a relaxing and indulgent vacation with a sprinkling of romance, gastronomy, nature-centric fun with family.
Be it romance, culture, nature-centric adventure sports, relaxation with rejuvenation, gastronomy, carnivals, shopping, golf or beach fun – Tenerife is a perfect destination to a holiday that your heart desires. Tenerife offers a wide range of activities that cater to all age groups.
For beach lovers, Tenerife is known for its stunning beaches, such as Playa de las Américas, Playa de las Teresitas, Playa Jardín (with its unique black sand) and El Médano. Whether you want to relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the turquoise waters or enjoy some water sports, Tenerife’s safe and spectacular beach life is perfect for all.
Golf enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Tenerife is home to several golf courses with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains. Golf Costa Adeje offers 27 holes designed by renowned golf architect José Gancedo. Other popular options include Golf Las Américas, Buenavista Golf, Sendero Las Salinas and the highly popular Amarilla Golf, perfect for families to tee-off.
Tenerife’s gastronomic culture is rich, with influences from Spain, Africa and Latin America. Local dishes such as papas arrugadas, gofio or seafood paella, grilled fish, and mojo sauce are must-try for all visitors. The island is also known for its incredibly popular local wines. A food tour is a must-do activity as it offers a chance to explore the diverse range of Tenerife’s culinary offerings.
The island offers a calendar full of festivals and events throughout the year, including one of the largest in the world – Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. You can enjoy colorful parades, music, and dance performances during this time. Tenerife’s colonial town of La Laguna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit attraction. Its Bell Tower offers a fabulous 360-degree view of the entire town.
Nature lovers can explore Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. Take a cable car to the summit and hike the trails. Stargazing tours are highly recommended for astronomy enthusiasts. Tenerife is also one of the best places in Europe to go whale and dolphin watching. Book a boat tour and spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Apart from Tenerife, the other islands in the Canaries are also worth a visit. Lanzarote is known for its unique volcanic landscape, with black sand beaches, rugged mountains, and unusual rock formations. Fuerteventura is famous for its stunning beaches, with miles of golden sand and turquoise waters. La Gomera is famous for its traditional whistling language, which has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. La Palma is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush forests, volcanic landscapes, and clear night skies for stargazing. The island is also home to several hiking trails, including Caldera de Taburiente National Park, which offers stunning views of the volcanic crater. El Hierro, on the other hand, is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, known for its ancient visitors and healing properties of the water from Pozo de la Salud, a well in Sabinosa.
In conclusion, the Canary Islands are the perfect destination for anyone seeking a relaxing and indulgent vacation with a sprinkling of romance, gastronomy, nature-centric fun with family. Whether you visit Tenerife or the adjoining islands, the Canaries offer a range of activities that cater to all age groups. To know more about the Canary Islands, visit www.spain.info and follow their social media handles on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
