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Exploring the Canary Islands – Best Places to Visit

by Tasha Mayberry

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As one of the most popular destinations for UK holidaymakers of all ages, the Canary Islands have equal amounts of natural beauty and adventure no matter the type of holiday you’re looking for. Great weather all year round, diverse landscapes, and plenty of things to do to keep you busy day and night, it’s a favourite for those looking for Winter sun, but it’s also full of cultural highlights that go beyond the tourist resorts.

Of its islands, each offers something different, and it’s well worth visiting a different island if you’ve been here before. You can always ferry between them if you are here for an extended stay too, but if you find the right island for you and your preferences, you won’t have to.

Travel Tips for the Canary Islands

As you plan your journey to the self-declared ‘best climate in the world’, you’ll want to ensure a few things first. Here’s a quick checklist before you book:

Travel Insurance – securing the right travel insurance should be at the top of your checklist. Sometimes, things don’t always go to plan, especially when travelling, so having a travel insurance policy that covers travel delays and disruptions is always a good idea. Cover for medical emergencies and even lost or damaged luggage can save a lot of hassle too and cover any unexpected costs.

GHIC – you may already have one of these, but a valid Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is worth having with you alongside insurance. This is because whilst it will cover state-run hospital treatment and GPs at a reduced fee or for free, your GHIC does not cover you for rescue or repatriation costs as per travel insurance provider Staysure. It also won’t cover you if you are on a cruise and need treatment, so it’s best to stay protected and have both.

Passport – you don’t want to be the person who arrives at the airport only to be refused boarding due to an expired passport. Check that your passport is still valid with at least 3 months left before expiry from the day you plan to return and that it is under 10 years since first issued. If you do need to renew, do this well in advance of your travel date to avoid disappointment!

Tenerife – The Island of Diversity

The largest of the Canary Islands is also its most popular, and anyone who has been before is easily seduced by its diversity. From dramatic volcanic landscapes to beautiful forests and lively coastal towns, if you’re looking for something more adventurous and scenic, you’ll find it in Tenerife.

At the heart of the island stands the Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site dominated by Mount Teide, which is also Spain’s highest peak. It has an otherworldly feel when you are there, completely different to the rest of the island, where you can hike, stargaze on night expeditions, and explore the unique flora and fauna that thrive in its volcanic soil. It’s a must for anyone visiting the island.

Away from Teide, you have the island’s capital Santa Cruz, where you will find sub-tropical gardens and laid-back city life, Puerto de la Cruz on the North coast that is one of the most picturesque and oldest resorts, and Anaga Rural Park that offers stunning forests and mountains that you can walk and explore. There’s so much more that you’ll just have to visit to see for yourself.

Gran Canaria – A Continent in Miniature

Another popular location, Gran Canaria is one of the liveliest Canary Islands, but it isn’t just a place to party and lay on the beach – it offers plenty for families and those looking for nature.

The island is often described as a continent in miniature due to its extraordinarily varied landscapes and climates, with UNESCO declaring Gran Canaria as a Biosphere Reserve back in 2005. This should give you an idea of the stunning natural beauty that awaits when you venture out of the cities. There are miles of white sandy beaches in Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas in the South, where you’ll see vast sand dunes that meet the sea, as well as plenty of green hills and picturesque mountains towards the middle of the island. This is where you’ll find nature reserves and features like Roque Nublo, one of the largest crags in the world that stands at 80 metres tall and offers breathtaking views of the whole island.

The island’s capital, Las Palmas, is a busy city but one with a vibrant history. Its museums, architecture, and the historic district and old town of Vegueta, which is South of the city, offer much to do to enjoy the island’s past. Casa de Colon mansion and Santa Ana cathedral are both highlights here that have stood for hundreds of years. Lastly, the Cueva Pintada Archaeological Park in Galdar, North of the island, offers fascinating insights into the lives of the pre-hispanic inhabitants, where you’ll get to see beautifully preserved cave paintings and ruins. There’s certainly much more than meets the eye in Gran Canaria if you seek it out.

Lanzarote – Black Sand and Famous Art

Many people will think of black sandy beaches at the mention of Lanzarote, and whilst it does have plenty of this to see and feel under your feet, the island is also known for art and design.

The influence of island-born artist César Manrique’s works blend art with nature and can be seen in many places. His home, built over a lava flow, is now a fascinating museum named Casa-Museo del Campesino. Attractions like Jameos del Agua, are one of the most visited, found inside a volcanic cave that has a palm tree garden outside and auditorium inside.

Centuries of volcanic activity give Lanzarote its unique look, with Timanfaya National Park a perfect example. Montañas del Fuego, or Mountains of Fire, offer a dramatic view of the volcanic soil and you’ll get to see geothermal demonstrations such as geysers and more, with various tours available by foot, coach and even camel.

As well as the rugged, volcanic natural beauty, the beaches are plentiful, with Famara beach offering golden sand for miles within the Natural Park of the Chinijo Archipelago. It has dramatic views of the coastline as well as plenty of opportunities for water sports and beach activities along its 6 km stretch. Along with its many small villages such as Yaiza and Haria, you really can find a peaceful, alternative Lanzarote.

Fuerteventura – Beaches Galore

The second largest of the Canary Islands, you won’t find a better location if you are a beach lover or water sports enthusiast. Known for having some of the most impressive beaches in the archipelago, Fuerteventura boasts over 150 kilometres of sandy shoreline and beautiful waters to keep every beachgoer happy. Corralejo Natural Park is one of the most spectacular locations, and Sotavento Beach is one of the most famous, both a world away from the UK.

Beyond its beautiful beaches, Fuerteventura’s former capital, Betancuria, located in a picturesque valley, offers a glimpse into the past. The restored church of Santa María de la Concepción and the archaeological museum are ideal for those interested in island life hundreds of years ago. There’s also the Salt Museum near Caleta de Fuste which offers visitors a glimpse into traditional methods of salt production.

With Fuerteventura another Biosphere Reserve, there are plenty of stunning protected areas to see and enjoy that will make you think differently about the island. It’s not just a haven for relaxation but also for adventure and historical discovery. Its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect escape for those looking to unwind in spectacular settings.

Which Island Will You Visit Next?

If you’ve already enjoyed Tenerife or have explored Lanzarote from coast to coast, that doesn’t mean your Canary Island adventure has to end. As well as the 4 mentioned above, there are plenty more islands to see including La Gomera, El Hierro, La Graciosa and La Palma.

Years of holidays in the Canary Islands are possible without seeing the same things twice, so why not consider a trip back again? If you’ve never been before, what are you waiting for? Discover everything the Canaries has to offer for an unforgettable holiday.