Canary Islands

Canary Island Resorts Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura

Formed from a huge volcanic range, many of the Canary Islands have been populated since the fifteenth century. Comprising islands including Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Fuertventura and Tenerife, the area is situated off the north west coast of Africa, close to Morocco, in the Atlantic Ocean.

A major tourist destination for many Europeans, who are drawn by its warm summer weather, (which can average around 24°) and its mild winters, the Canary Islands offer many contrasting landscapes and activities, to suit those either looking for a fun-packed holiday or a relaxing break.

You can find four of Spain’s seven major National Parks here, including one of the most well-known – the volcanic crater of Mount Teide, in Tenerife. Watersports enthusiasts also flock to this area – Corralejo in particular, being considered one of the best regions in the world for windsurfers.

The subtropical climate means there is an abundance of fresh fruit, vegetables and seafood on offer. Traditional cuisine is a mix of Spanish, Portuguese and North African dishes, with stews, cereals, peppers and chillies having a strong influence.

For those looking to get away from it all for a while, the less populated islands of El Hierro and La Gomera are well worth a visit. However, should you feel the need for a spot of retail therapy, the bustling cities of Las Palmas on Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz on Tenerife offer all the facilities of any modern city.