Canaries Holidays

The Canaries are one of the most popular year-round holiday choices for UK travellers, thanks to their mild climate, varied scenery and wide range of resorts. Set in the Atlantic off the coast of north-west Africa, the Canary Islands are part of Spain, but each island has its own character.

Tenerife is the largest island and offers a good mix of beach resorts, mountain scenery and traditional towns. The south coast, including Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos, is known for sunshine, hotels and easy-going resort facilities, while the north has greener landscapes and places such as Puerto de la Cruz. Mount Teide National Park is a major highlight, with volcanic scenery and Spain’s highest peak.

Gran Canaria is another varied island, with sandy beaches in the south around Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés and Puerto Rico, plus dramatic inland mountains and pretty villages. Las Palmas, the island’s capital, adds a more urban side with historic streets, shopping and a well-known city beach.

Lanzarote has a striking volcanic landscape, especially in Timanfaya National Park. Resorts such as Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise are popular for relaxed beach holidays, while the island is also known for the work of local artist César Manrique, whose influence can be seen in gardens, viewpoints and cultural sites.

Fuerteventura is especially suited to travellers who want long sandy beaches, open scenery and a quieter pace. Corralejo, Caleta de Fuste and Jandía are among the best-known holiday areas. La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro are smaller and greener, appealing more to walkers, nature lovers and anyone looking for a peaceful escape.

Food in the Canaries is simple and satisfying, with fresh fish, local cheeses, wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce, stews and Spanish tapas widely available. The islands also have local wines and traditional markets where you can sample regional produce.

Canaries holidays can suit couples, families, walkers, beach lovers and anyone looking for winter sun without a long-haul flight. Whether you want a full-service resort, volcanic landscapes, coastal walks or a quieter rural break, the islands offer plenty of choice.