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Canary Islands

The islands of the eternal spring, the archipelago Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean, form a part of Spain, although they are more closely situated to Africa.

The seven islands: La Palma, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, and the two lesser unspoilt islands of Hierro and Gomera, form a part of a volcanic mountain range which
lies beneath the Atlantic Ocean.

The all year sub-tropical climate, which is regulated by the Gulf Stream and Trade Winds, attracts thousands of visitors every year to the islands who come to enjoy the sun, sea, nightlife and hospitality of the Canarian people.

However, it’s all too easy to arrive on your trip to the Canary Islands, plonk yourself on the beach and stay there without actually exploring all of the marvellous attractions that the islands have to offer.

History
The Canary Islands birth dates back to 8-12 million years ago, with the development of a volcanic mountain range underwater in the Atlantic, which at different intervals erupted
forming the archipelago.

It is understood that the first people were of aboriginal and of northwest African origin, they were named Guanches. They were conquered by the Spanish over 500 years ago, but not without putting up a great fight.

During the dark ages the islands were forgotten by Europe, and it wasn’t until the 13th century that they were once again rediscovered. In the 14th century they were conquered on behalf of the Spanish by the Norman captain, Jean de Bethencourt, who conquered Lanzarote.

When Christopher Columbus stopped on in the Canary Islands on his way to discover the Americas, it put the islands on the map as a
strategic stop-off point for many years to follow.

Tenerife
The island of Tenerife is the largest of the Canary archipelago and is known as the island of eternal spring because of its all year round excellent climate.

The island is full of stark contrasts and has a great variety of scenery which varies through the regions. A mountain chain runs through its centre fro Anaga to Teno and on both of its slopes there are large, exuberantly fertile valleys, among them especially La Orotava and Gumar.

In the heart of the chain there is a gigantic, natural crater, called Las Cañadas del Teide, which is
about 29 km across and has officially been declared a National Park. It lies over 2,000 m above sea level. North of the crater stands El Pico del Teide (Mount Teide), a 3,718 m high mountain, which is the highest point in Spain. It is
snow covered in the winter and marks the island with its unique silhouette.

The capital city is Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and the most popular holiday destinations include Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos,, Puerto de la Cruz and Adeje.

Gran Canaria
The island of Gran Canaria is situated in the centre of the Canary Island archipelago and is the third largest island after Tenerife and Fuerteventura. Its diversity of landscapes, magnificent beaches and friendly, laid-back atmosphere make Gran Canaria an ideal family holiday destination, anytime of the year.

Las Palmas is the capital of the island and its main destination resorts are Puerto Rico, Maspalomas, with its beautiful sand dune nature reserve, Puerto de Mogan and Playa del Ingles.

Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is the island closest to the coast of North Africa, being just 100 kilometres from Morocco. It’s the second largest island and is renowned for its long, golden sand beaches and sand dunes. The island is a paradise for sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts. It is also believed to be the oldest of all of the islands
in the Archipelago.

The capital of Fuerteventura is Puerto del Rosario, and its main destination resorts are Antigua, Caleta de Fuste, Corralejo and El Cotillo and Morro Jable.

Lanzarote
Lanzarote is situated just 70 miles off the coast of Africa, the most easterly of the Canary Islands and one of the smallest.

As with the other Canary Islands, Lanzarote has a volcanic landscape, which gives the impression that you are in a lunar environment; so much so that parts of the movie Planet of the Apes were shot here. The island has a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protected status.

Arrecife is the capital of the island and the main destination resorts are Puerto del Carmen, Arrecife, Puerto Calero, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise.

La Palma
La Palma is recognised as one of the most naturally beautiful and unspoilt of all the seven Canary Islands. The development of tourism here has been strictly controlled and if you are after a typical package holiday scenario, with upbeat bars, McDonalds and English breakfast, then La Palma is not the destination for you.

The island is popular for those seeking a rural tourism option, walking holidays, eco tourists, or those who just want to chill out in stunning natural surroundings. Don’t expect 365 days of sunshine here either, as La Palma is much more lush, green and considerably wetter!

The island is made up three main touristic zones: Los Cancajos to the east, and Puerto Naos and Tazacorte to the west.

El Hierro
El Hierro is an eco tourist’s heaven and a paradise location for scuba divers. A biosphere reserve, the island hosts very little tourism, but if you want to escape from the humdrum of every day life and people, then El Hierro offers a wonderful option; a land of volcanoes, lava fields, lush valleys and dramatic cliffs which reach up to 1000m high.

La Gomera
Home to the National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Garanjonay, La Gomera is a natural jewel in the archipelago. Where you find species that are otherwise extinct in most
destinations, dense forests, deep ravines and a landscape that has been sculpted over millions of years.

Cuisine
Much of the cuisine of the Canary Islands combines traditional Spanish fayre, with African and South American gastronomy. The volcanic roots of the island are also reflected in the dishes.

Fish obviously plays an important role in the gastronomy of Gran Canaria and especially popular are locally caught Langoustines, Mussels, Octopus, Atlantic Mackerel, and Sardines.

Meat dishes are popular, especially steaks and stews, but most meat tends to be imported in, as there is not much livestock on the island.

The Canary Islands grape growing culture dates back centuries and the unique flavour that comes from the volcanic terrains is very special. There are many wine routes that can be explored throughout the islands, where you can discover the different vineyards and their denominations.

Climate
The climate of the Canary Islands is mild, enjoying pleasant temperatures all year round. Average temperatures during the summer months average 26-28C; during the winter months the temperature rarely drops below 22 degrees, making it a perfect all year round destination.