The Canary Islands

The Canary Islands lie in the Atlantic Ocean, off the Moroccan coast. The volcanic islands are the mountain tops of a submerged mountain that began to form around one hundred and eighty million years ago. The hotspot that provided this is still active, which means that the volcanoes on the islands can be productive and the undersea mountains are still growing.

The Canary Islands were probably built around 3000 BC and inhabited for the first time by settlers from North Africa. In the 15th century, the Spaniards conquered the islands of the then-inhabitants, who were called the Guanches. They still lived in caves, wore goat skins and made attributes of earthenware and stone. Therefore people say that the Stone Age in this region lasted until the 15th century.

 

The Islands

The Canary Islands are one of Spain’s most beloved tourist spots. Their stunning cuisine and picturesque volcanic backdrops draw 12 million visitors a year to their stunning islands.

Discover the islands’ multicultural heritage through a visit to one of the Canary Islands’ museums. This vibrant melting pot of Spanish, European and South American influences provides visitors with an immersive learning experience.

 

Discover the Unspoilt Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have earned a reputation as an idyllic tourist spot, but these volcanic islands offer much more than sun, sea and sand. This breathtaking group of volcanic islands boasts cultural activities, stunning landscapes and an irresistible gastronomy and wine scene that are sure to please any palate.

La Palma, for instance, boasts some of the finest wine in the world. Not only is it produced here but these ancient vineyards haven’t been affected by phylloxera as many European ones have.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a stunning archipelago that has something for everyone. From its vibrant British nightlife and white sandy beaches to the diverse range of natural landscapes, Tenerife should not be missed!

Tourists flock to the island’s popular resorts, but those with an adventurous spirit can explore off-the-beaten-path towns and villages that line its rugged mountain ridges. For instance, visit La Laguna, home to one of the island’s oldest churches.

Loro Parque, an aviary that houses rare and exotic birds, is another must-see. Additionally, this museum provides an insightful look into Canary Islands’ natural and archaeological history.

Lanzarote

Lanzarote, a volcanic island located off the coast of Spain, is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning beaches, landscapes and small villages.

The island of Tenerife is renowned for both its stunning natural landscape and vibrant culture. Some of the most picturesque spots to visit on this island include Teguise, which dates back centuries ago and boasts some delightful craft shops and bars.

Take a ferry to La Graciosa, just across the channel, for some of the Canaries’ most stunning beaches. You can book tickets online ahead of time for added convenience.

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura, the second-largest island in the Canary Islands, is renowned for its stunning beaches and tranquil atmosphere. It’s also a popular spot to enjoy wind sports like surfing and waterskiing.

Its name derives from the Spanish words for “strong” and “fortune,” about the strong winds that sweep across the island. The island’s landscapes and geological formations have been sculpted by volcanic eruptions over 50 million years ago, providing visitors with a breathtaking sight that will leave them speechless.

One of the best activities to do in Fuerteventura is exploring its historical sites. Take the Coronel’s Route tour in La Oliva, explore Betancuria town founded by Jean de Bethencourt or hike up Tindaya mountain for an unforgettable adventure!

La Palma

La Palma, one of the Canary Islands’ most captivating islands, offers an idyllic haven for hikers, stargazers and beachcombers alike. Protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, La Palma boasts stunning natural landscapes.

The main attraction is the breathtaking Caldera de Taburiente National Park, one of Spain’s four national parks. Here, you’ll find plenty of activities to choose from: scenic hiking routes to the Cascades of Colours waterfall and Mirador de la Cumbre for spectacular views.

The island also offers an array of cultural attractions, such as Parque Arqueologico El Tendal. Here, ancient caves give visitors a rare insight into the lives of Benahorit Native Americans.

l Hierro and La Gomera

La Gomera and El Hierro are two of the ‘unsung Canaries’, offering vast expanses of unspoiled landscape. Wander through laurel forests, climb craggy peaks or explore an exceptional biosphere preserve.

In addition to breathtaking views, Garajonay national park boasts an array of fascinating wildlife. This includes the largest laurel forest in the Canaries and more than 40 endemic species including plants, birds, insects, mammals and reptiles.

Other attractions include Barranco de Arure, a stunning hike that leads to the waterfall of the same name; Valle Gran Rey is another breathtaking valley featuring terraces and Canary Islands pine trees that blend seamlessly with the blue ocean.

Gran Canaria

If you’re a lover of nature, Gran Canaria has plenty to offer. From long beaches to mountain interiors, this island truly has something for everyone.

Agriculture was once the major source of income on this island, but nowadays tourism provides most of the island’s income.

Tamadaba Natural Park

Tamadaba Natural Park is one of Gran Canaria’s most unspoiled regions and a prime tourist destination for adventurers. With an expansive pine forest, cliffs and valleys boasting picturesque views as well as abundant biodiversity, Tamadaba Natural Park provide everything you need for an unforgettable stay.

There are plenty of hiking trails to explore in Tamadaba’s natural park, but one of the most popular is Camino Fin del Mundo which takes you from Casa Forestal waypoint up Pico de la Bandera’s crest in just over an hour. This hike will give you a bird’s eye view of Tamadaba’s rugged West Coast from above.

Hikers can camp at Llanos de la Mimbre, a wide esplanade equipped with bins, drinking water and a camping area under the canopy of Canarian pine trees. Here you can have an enjoyable staycation with family or friends while dining beneath this magical canopy of fragrant trees while admiring beautiful landscapes from its highest point.

 

Los Azulejos

If you’re looking for an amazing photo opportunity with mountains in all their vibrant colours, the Fuente de Los Azulejos should not be missed. This lesser-known hiking route has been declared an Asset of Geological Interest by Spain’s Geomining Technological Institute due to the vast amounts of igneous stone it contains.

Additionally, visitors have a rare chance to observe the blue finch, an endemic species of Gran Canaria that faces extinction.

Los Azulejos in Gran Canaria offers stunning views of the sun and stunning landscapes from their tops. You can also explore troglodyte dwellings carved into the rocks as well as a chapel dedicated to Virgin de la Cuevita located inside one of these caves.

If photography is your passion, a tailor-made day tour with an experienced local photographer is the ideal experience. Not only will you take stunning photographs on this tour, but you’ll also hone your skills as a photographer as well.

Bentayga Mountain

Roque Bentayga, situated within Tejeda volcano caldera in Gran Canaria’s centre, is one of the island’s most stunning geological formations. It also holds archaeological significance due to its almogaren on its east face – a place for ritual and worship.

Indigenous people have carved this rock face, which is now a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning natural splendour. There is also a visitor centre and museum on site.

Furthermore, there is an abundance of rock art from Canarian aborigines such as Libyco-Berber alphabets and geometric symbols. These discoveries shed light on their culture before it was forced into assimilation by Spanish conquerors.

The mountain is accessible through the Network of Protected Natural Spaces and offers many hiking trails. Although the ascent is somewhat steep, taking about 30 minutes to reach the top, you won’t regret it for anything – the view is worth all the effort!

Barns of Guia

Gran Canaria boasts many remarkable resources that make it stand out. One such example is the Caves of Valeron, ancient collective barns which have been preserved as an archaeological park.

In Guia, we can find many stunning buildings that showcase various styles. One such example is the Columbus House Museum – an impressive architectural treasure.

Visitors to Vegueta should not miss visiting the Church of Lujan Perez, located nearby. Its architecture blends Gothic and Neoclassical styles.

Guia region boasts several natural pools. Most of them can be found in the north of the island where the coastline is more volcanic. Notable examples include Las Salinas de Agaete, La Laja in Las Palmas and Roque Prieto in Guia.

 

History

The Canary Islands’ birth dates back to 8-12 million years earlier, with the advancement of a volcanic range of mountains underwater in the Atlantic, which at various periods emerged
forming the archipelago.

The Canary Islands have a rich cultural heritage, dating back thousands of years. Ancient peoples of North Africa such as Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans were familiar with them – they are even mentioned in classical writings as ‘The Fortunate Isles’ or Atlantis, an ill-fated island.

The Guanches were the earliest inhabitants of these islands, arriving as far back as 1000 BCE. Genetic and linguistic analysis indicates they were decedents of Berber people from North Africa who spread across North America.

Later, Spanish and Portuguese navigators visited the islands, bringing with them a variety of crops and other products. Sugar cane became a major cash crop, while tropical agriculture has remained an important source of income ever since.

Due to this diversity, the Canary Islands have hosted many different cultures throughout history. Although now part of Spain, they still retain their unique culture and language.

There is an official Canarian Spanish, but local dialects can also be heard in rural areas. Indeed, Silbo – a whistle language protected since 1999 and understood by most residents of La Gomera – has been preserved.

The Canary Islands are divided into six main islands, each with its distinct character. Tenerife stands out due to its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife scene; other major islands include Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and La Palma.

Tourism

The Canary Islands are one of the world’s most beloved tourist destinations. These idyllic islands boast stunning beaches and warm temperatures year-round, as well as four national parks filled with fascinating wildlife species.

The tourism industry in the Canary Islands is vital to local and regional economies, due to its high levels of employment. Furthermore, it serves as a lucrative source of income for families and small business owners alike.

The Canary Islands welcome an average of 13 million tourists annually, which is not surprising considering they are close to the equator and enjoy a subtropical climate all year long.

While many visitors to The Canary Islands come for their beaches, others like to explore other attractions and activities. Popular activities include visiting Tenerife and Gran Canaria’s capital cities, touring museums, taking tours of natural wonders or shopping at local boutiques.

Whale watching is another popular activity that can be done from virtually all the islands. It’s an incredible chance to witness this rare species up close and can be a memorable part of any trip to The Canary Islands.

For a more authentic Canary Island experience, consider venturing off the beaten path and exploring less popular islands or areas that aren’t necessarily resorts or tourist-focused. These places tend to be quieter and secluded than their more bustling counterparts, making them great opportunities to soak in the culture of The Canary Islands.

For instance, the Lido Martianez in Puerto de la Cruz is an incredible natural saltwater pool designed by Cesar Manrique and situated in the old town. It offers seven pools, changing facilities, subtropical plants and trees, a huge fountain with a jacuzzi, restaurants and more – all within an attractive urban oasis.

Beaches

The Canary Islands are renowned for their beaches and dramatic volcanic landscapes, making them a prime destination for beachgoers. From powdery white sand to black-sand coves, the islands have something to appeal to everyone’s taste.

Fuerteventura is one of the best islands for a relaxing beach holiday, boasting expansive natural sand beaches that rarely get overrun due to their size. Popular spots include Playa del Cotillo – boasting some of Spain’s finest sand – and El Bollullo, where red crabs often venture onto the dark sand.

La Gomera is another island worth visiting for its stunning black sand beaches, and La Valle Gran Rey (“Great King Valley”) has become a tourist destination. Notably, Playa de Papagayo has been rated the best beach in Spain.

You can get to La Gomera via ferry from Tenerife or Gran Canaria with Fred Olsen Express or Naviera Armas; alternatively, you may fly with local airlines like Canaryfly or Binter Canarias.

La Gomera boasts some of the finest restaurants in the Canary Islands. San Sebastian de La Gomera’s Los Chozos Restaurant serves light snacks and refreshments to guests enjoying their vacation on the beach or poolside sun loungers. Its rustic decor and traditional Canarian cuisine make it a perfect spot for a casual dinner during your Canary Islands vacation.

Climate

The climate of the Canary Islands is generally mild, making it a desirable destination year-round. This mildness is partly due to their proximity to the equator and influence by warm ocean currents.

The Canary Islands are renowned for their warm and sunny summers, with temperatures averaging 18-24degC throughout the year. On average, there are ten hours of sunlight each day during these months.

The Canary Islands enjoy protection from prevailing winds and a relatively constant temperature, earning them the nickname “Islands of Eternal Spring”.

Winter in Tenerife and Gran Canaria can be pleasant; even with occasional showers, the sea remains warm enough for swimming. Unfortunately, rainfall rates are much higher on Fuerteventura and Lanzarote’s northern islands than their southern counterparts in Tenerife or Gran Canaria.

It is important to remember that the Canary Islands are a biodiversity hotspot, with many endemic species being threatened by invasive pathogens. Angiostrongylus cantonensis, for instance, has spread rapidly across these islands and has hurt many indigenous animals.

The Canary Islands boast an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, more than any other European country. As a result, these idyllic islands have become popular holiday spots for families and those searching for an affordable yet beautiful beach holiday.

Temperatures in the mountains tend to be cooler than expected, so tourists often opt for lightweight cotton and light clothing to stay cool. The rainfall here is usually low by European standards, but it’s wise to bring along some lightweight rainwear just in case.

Language

The Canary Islands are a Spanish-speaking region located off the coast of Africa. It’s renowned for its stunning beaches and fascinating history that dates back centuries.

The Spanish spoken in the Canary Islands is similar to that spoken elsewhere in Spain and South America, but it has its distinctive characteristics. Its pronunciation is more sensitive than other accents, and its language is marked by its sensuality.

There are several Latin American words that have become part of the Canarian Spanish dialect. For instance, “quininegua,” meaning potato in English, has now taken on a new meaning in Canarian Spanish.

Another Latin American term is “guagua,” which refers to a bus in the Canary Islands. This has been adapted into a Canarian phrase with slightly different pronunciations.

Canarians have adopted many nautical words into their vocabulary. These include “jalar,” which translates to pull, attract or eat; “manejar,” which describes driving a car; and “millo,” which is how they say corn.

Additionally, Canarian Spanish has adopted many English words. These can be particularly observed in its use of slang and colloquial vocabulary, where many English terms have been replaced with their Canarian equivalents.

One of the most captivating aspects of Canarian Spanish is its linguistic variety. This can be observed in both pronunciation and lexical forms between Canarians and Spaniards, as well as influences from Latin America and Britain that have been blended into Canarian Spanish. While these subtle changes may take some getting used to, they are easily picked up with practice if you pay attention closely.

A traditional local dish

Food is a widely crucial part of the Canarian culture, as well as there, are some amusingly called delicacies on a deal such as ‘Mojo’– a sauce which may be orange, red, or environment-friendly depending on its components. An additional normal Canarian food is called ‘ropa vieja’ which implies ‘old clothes’– a recipe of chicken as well as beef blended with potatoes and also garbanzo beans!

 

Lido Martianez

In the old town of Puerto de la Cruz, you will certainly discover the outstanding natural seawater swimming pools designed by the popular architect/landscaper Cesar Manrique. The breathtaking Lido Martianez includes 7 pools, changing centres, subtropical trees as well as plants, a substantial water fountain, a jacuzzi, play area tools, restaurants, and also an underground casino and gambling enterprise.

If you are looking for a diverse, cultural experience, considering a trip to the Canary Islands may just be worth your while.