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The Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean, consist of seven islands that are 100 miles away from the north-west coast of Africa and are known for their sunny climate.
Most well-known for its consistent supply of vitamin D and stunning beaches comparable to the Balearic Islands, the geological wonders of the inland landscapes surpass even the vibrant atmosphere of the nearby coastal cities.
The Spanish islands, each as dynamic as the next, offer endless active pursuits, beaches from which to bathe in the sea and cultural adventures to cement their popular position as the place to get away for Brits – five are even listed as Unesco biosphere reserves for their unusual flora and fauna.
Whether tucking into elevated plates of tapas, hiking steep lava fields or doing some serious stargazing, the Canaries masterfully balance budget travel with Michelin-quality luxury for trips that are sure to surprise you.
From popular vacation destination Lanzarote to lesser-known La Gomera, discover where and how to locate warm weather escapes for both winter and summer on the Canary Islands – only a four-hour flight away from the UK.
Discover more about traveling to the Canary Islands.
Tenerife is located between the Sahara and the Atlantic and typically experiences sunny weather.
Tenerife is located between the Sahara Desert and the Atlantic Ocean. It boasts lush tropical forest paths in Parque Nacional Las Cañadas del Teide, opportunities to venture into the inner workings of a dormant volcano, Mount Teide, and is also home to Europe’s first Whale Heritage Site, which is home to 28 different types of whales and dolphins. These experiences can be enjoyed in Tenerife’s year-round sunny weather.
Even though it is known for affordable vacation packages, the Canary Island is often seen as a low-cost destination popular for British pubs and silly behavior. However, its lush forests and untouched western coast offer a different side to the island that is not heavily influenced by tourism. It is also a great place for stargazing, thanks to its clear skies, fresh air, and high elevations. Tenerife has successfully attracted British tourists with its sprawling beaches, some of which have sand imported from Western Sahara. The popular Siam Park even stays open in the winter to cater to sun seekers who visit the largest of the Canary Islands.
Where to stay
The Royal Hideaway Corales Suites provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for travelers in the charming town of La Caleta. The resort boasts luxurious beachfront suites, three heated saltwater pools, and a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant called El Rincón de Juan Carlos. These amenities were all crafted by architect Leonardo Omar to resemble a natural sea cave.
Gran Canaria is located in the middle of the Canary Islands group of islands. Playa del Inglés, Puerto de Mogán, and Puerto Rico have both black and white sandy beaches, while Meloneras offers a chic waterfront where tourists can enjoy shopping, dining, and sunset views.
The 75km Gran Canaria Camino trail starts at Maspalomas in the south and ends at Santiago de los Caballeros in the north, taking you through sandy dunes and green forests as you make your way around the circular island. With enviable temperatures (an average daily high of 24C) and fresh bananas as snacks, the journey is made easier.
Where to stay
The Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, was constructed in 1890 and is painted in the iconic pink of Santa Catalina. Located just a brief walk from the historic district of Vegueta and the main beach, this hotel offers neoclassical rooms with charming wooden balconies, cozy ambient lighting, and comfortable beds perfect for relaxing before indulging in a lavish breakfast buffet.
Rewording: Lanzarote has transformed its reputation from being known for cheap tourism to a destination for upscale travel. Once considered the top choice for vacationers among the Canary Islands, the island now boasts trendy boutiques, pristine beaches, and modern resorts with a variety of international dining options. All of this is set against the backdrop of the island’s striking red mountains.
Explore Papagayo Beach located on the southern tip of the island to soak up the sun on its powdery sand and swim in its stunning emerald waters. Alternatively, take a tour of Timanfaya National Park to witness the otherworldly lunar landscapes and breathtaking views of the entire island. For families, Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, and Costa Teguise offer ideal destinations on this typically rain-free island. However, don’t miss out on the hidden gems found in the rural whitewashed villages scattered throughout Lanzarote. These charming hamlets, country bodegas, and the picturesque vineyards of La Geria attract tourists with their unique lava field scenery and pleasant climate year-round, both inland and along the sparkling coast.
Where to stay
H10 Rubicón Palace, in the heart of Playa Blanca, is a family-friendly resort with five different dining venues, spacious suites to sleep your whole clan and a village atmosphere. A hotspot for sunsets, nightly shows, multi-sports courts and themed meals greet guests heading for the white sand stretch of Lanzarote.
Fuerteventura, year-round for surfing and watersports. Swathes of holiday-brochure sand line the coast formed over 22 million years ago, and the isle is blessed with breaks and swells for riding the waves and a relaxed vibe to match the surf scene.
Sotavento Beach, located on the southwestern tip, is known for its 9km stretch that attracts wind and kite surfers. The popular north shore breaks in the beach town of Corralejo are often compared to Hawaii, making it a hub for surfing in Europe.
Beneath the volcanic mountains, the hills are scattered with traditional windmills, Aztec-inspired churches and ochre colonial mansions. Think kitesurfing, buggy driving, and mountain hikes to volcanic wine cellars on a Fuerteventura holiday.
Where to stay
If you are looking for a Fuerteventura vacation that offers elegant boutique hotels with a white and blue palette, a secluded beach, and a traditional Spanish restaurant, then the Avanti Lifestyle Hotel is the perfect choice. This hotel, which first opened in 1969, features 14 terraced rooms exclusively for adults to relax in Corralejo after enjoying various watersports activities.
La Palma is a subtropical paradise marked by lava scars from its active Tajogaite volcano. Since its last eruption devastated Palermos in 2021, the ashy shore has found its place in the archipelago’s tourism arena with seismic volcano-themed tours and cruises around its corrugated coast.
The lushest of the Canaries and considered one of the world’s steepest islands, this naturally diverse destination is best appreciated on foot, with high altitude hiking on La Palma’s central peaks a priority over lounging shoreside and the wild nightlife you’ll find in Tenerife or Lanzarote.
However, for a break from your step count, Los Cancajos, a small resort near the island’s attractive capital Santa Cruz de La Palma (the most established tourist town), is dotted with black sand beaches, shallow bays and bistros serving papas bonitas (wrinkled potatoes with Canarian mojo verde sauce) for a taste of a classic postcard holiday.
Where to stay
The Hotel San Telmo, located in Santa Cruz de La Palma, offers a delightful blend of 17th-century design and modern comfort. Its prime location is perfect for guests looking to explore the countryside on a hike. In addition, guests can relax and read in the garden solarium and enjoy freshly baked bread for breakfast.
The beautiful Hotel Jardín Tecina provides guests with access to an outdoor pool, hot tub, and charming rooms designed in the style of a typical Canarian village. It is conveniently located near top-rated golf courses and features peaceful flower gardens that offer stunning views of Mount Teide. Plus, it is just a few steps away from Santiago Beach.
El Hierro is accessible by either ferry or flight from Tenerife. The island, which is located on the edge of Europe, was once considered the “end of the world”. Despite not being a popular destination for mass tourism, this small island boasts striking volcanic landscapes, old-growth forests, lava fields, banana farms, and wind turbines – all contributing to its goal of achieving self-sufficiency in energy.
The clear waters of El Hierro, now a safeguarded biosphere reserve by Unesco, are ideal for scuba diving and home to a diverse range of sea creatures. The scenic villages of La Caleta and El Tamaduste offer natural swimming pools, with charming holiday homes situated on the rugged cliffs for stunning views of the southernmost part of Spain.
On the ground, activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and Canarian wrestling come together at the Bajada de la Virgen de los Reyes festival, which occurs every four years. This 18-mile pilgrimage follows the paths of Valverde since 1741 and involves carrying the Virgin of Los Reyes (the patron saint of the island) in a vibrant procession to the capital city to pray for rain during times of drought.
Where to stay
On the coast of El Golfo Bay, Balneario Pozo de la Salud backed by high cliffs oozes calm and relaxation. At the laid-back accommodation, there’s a spa that features clinical and aesthetic treatments, plus sprawling sea views of the Atlantic from modern suites and the on-site restaurant.
Top reviews for hotels in Lanzarote
Source: independent.co.uk
