A Travel Guide for Your Holidays in Spain Canary Islands
September 29th, 2009 by Daniel Gibbs, under Travel and Leisure. No Comments
Although closer to mainland Africa, the Canary Islands or the Canaries, is a Spanish archipelago which consists of seven major islands, along with one minor island and several islets. It is most popular for its beautiful beaches. However, it has other interesting attractions, make good reasons for you to spend holidays in Spain Canary Islands.
Tenerife is the largest of all the Canary Islands and its capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is also one of the capital cities of the archipelago. Here, you will find the tallest mountain in Spain, El Teide, as well as the historic city of La Laguna, which was named a World Heritage Site in 1999. The island also has many spectacular golf courses, marinas and wellness resorts where you can enjoy various relaxing treatments.
Gran Canaria is also popular. In fact, the other capital of the Canary Islands can be found on Gran Canaria – the city of Las Palmas. Aside from being the island with the largest population, Gran Canaria also boasts of many art galleries, museums, theme parks and excellent restaurants, making it a truly ideal destination for family holidays in Spain Canary Islands.
Fuerteventura is second to Tenerife in terms of size, and also has many interesting sights of its own. These include ancient flour-grinding mills, stunning nature reserves and the legendary Mount Tindaya, which was once believed to be magical. Most tourists are lured by its beaches, though, which are perfect venues for windsurfing.
Aside from golden sandy beaches, the Canary Islands has beaches with dark volcanic sand, too, like the beaches of Lanzarote. Lanzarote is more popular for its awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes, though, such as those created by the 18th century eruption of Mount Timanfaya and those crafted by legendary landscape artist Cesar Manrique.
The Garajonay National Park is equally beautiful and is the pride of the island of La Gomera. In fact, the park occupies most of La Gomera and is home to one of the few remaining laurisilva rainforests in the world. Aside from taking a walk through the Garajonay National Park, you can also learn the traditional whistling language of the Gomerans while at La Gomera or sample the island’s unique delicacies.
La Palma also has laurel woodlands, along with idyllic bays and volcanic cones. In fact, the island is the site of the Caldera de Taburiente, one of the biggest volcanic craters in the world. Don’t forget to visit Roque los Muchachos, too, during your holidays in Spain Canary Islands, which is a great place for enjoying breathtaking views or stargazing.
Last but not the least, there is the island of El Hierro. This island has many natural wonders, including juniper woodlands, colossal cliffs and pine forests. It is particularly known for its spectacular underwater wildlife, so make sure you don’t neglect this island during your holidays in Spain Canary Islands. In fact, make sure you visit all the islands for a truly unforgettable adventure.
