Unforgettable Canary Islands breaks

Canary Islands destination guide

The archipelago is made up of seven islands: Lanzarote El Hierro, Fuerteventura, La Palma, Gran Canaria and Tenerife, La Gomera. The islands are renowned for their sunny climate and sandy beaches, although they have developed an unwarranted reputation of simply offering a great nightlife and winter accommodation. Despite the fact that the weather is idyllic year-round and the beaches are abundant, the islands have loads more on offer. Volcanic in origin, the majority of the islands are perfect for hikers.

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Each island has its own unique allure, so your interests should determine where you travel. Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are quite flat in comparison to other islands and therefore lack good hiking paths. The latter is great for art enthusiasts and anyone interested in volcanoes; the former is a tanner's paradise with more than 140 beaches. Fuerteventura is additionally renowned for its outstanding windsurfing.

Tenerife and Gran Canaria and are the most densely inhabited islands and provide a good blend of hiking, tourist resorts, beaches, picturesque villages and lively cities. The islands to the west are smaller, calmer and lack golden sand; however the fine black sand beaches are still fascinating. La Palma provides the best opportunity for hiking, with two excellent treks.

If you want to get a feel for genuine Canarian culture, then El Hierro and La Gomera are great options, predominantly with the traditional cuisine and handicrafts.

EATING AND DRINKING

Great gastronomy can be found throughout the Canary Islands – both local and international. Here are five recommended restaurants.

1. Restaurante Los Roques (Tenerife) - One of the best restaurants in Tenerife with great food and wonderful service
2. Meson el Monasterio (Tenerife) - Great gastronomy provided in an old monastery field
3. Regulo (Puerto de la Cruz) - Canarian cooking in an old house with a great atmosphere and service
4. Samsara (Gran Canaria) - Occidental cuisine restaurant which mixes traditional products and oriental tastes
5. La Cabaña (Lanzarote) - Top quality international cuisine in Puerto del Carmen.

CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS

There are many opportunities for you to discover the history and culture of these seven islands. Here are five recommended cultural attractions.

1. Masca Valley (Tenerife) - Beautiful former pirate village in the bottom of the valley in Tenerife.
2. Cueva-de los Verdes (Lanzarote) - Caves formed by the eruption of the volcano Monte de la Corona and it's an incredible piece of natural architecture
3. Santa Ana Cathedral (La Palmas) - The first church in the Canaries built on the orders of Los Reyes Catolicos after the conquest of Canary Island
4. Cesar Manrique Foundation (Lanzarote) - Home of the Spanish artist Cesar Manrique

THINGS TO DO

With each island possessing its own unique characteristics you will be almost spoilt for choice when it comes to recreational activities. Here are 5 things to do during your stay.

1. Manta diving (Lanzarote) – Enjoy diving in the beautiful waters of Lanzarote
2. The Caldera de Taburiente (La Palma) - National park in the island of La Palma which contains "La Caldera de Taburiente", a mountain arch with a curious crater shape
3. Playa-Canteras (Gran Canaria) - One of the best urban beaches in Gran Canaria
4. Pedelec Mountain Biking (Fuerteventura) - See the incredible volcanic landscape around Corralejo by bike.
5. Palmitos Park (Gran Canaria) - Botanical garden and aviary on the island of Gran Canaria with exhibitions of dolphins and birds and many other activities