Do you want to escape Ireland’s rainy weather? How about a trip to one of the beautiful Canary Islands? The seven main and six smaller islands are located in the Atlantic, south-west of Spain and north-west of Africa. Due to their geographical location they enjoy a remarkably mild climate with average temperatures of 24 °C. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an exciting adventure; whether you travel alone, in a group or with your family, the Canary Islands offer the perfect holiday destination for everyone.
La Palma – The ideal place for outdoor persons looking for an adventure
Everyone who is into mountain biking will love La Palma. There are about 1000 km of walking tracks and most of them are suitable for mountain biking. Enjoy the mild climate and fascinating landscape. You don’t even have to bring your own bike, just rent one and start your adventure right away.
If you are someone who loves exploring the ocean floor and marine life you should go scuba diving here. There are two diving centres, Las Llanos and Puerto Naos that offer the ultimate scuba diving experience in crystal clear water. Take the chance, you won’t regret it.
Looking for something to do at night? How about gazing at the stunning night sky. Just walk up to Roque de los Muchachos, La Palma’s highest peak. From there you are able to see the stars of the entire northern hemisphere. You could also visit one of the best equipped observatories in the world, which is situated on Roque de los Muchachos. However, make sure to check their website first, as it is not open to the public every day.
Lanzarote – Ideal for traveling with children
Be part of a magical submarine safari and explore the marine life of the island. Board one of the tourist submarines and go on a 45 minutes long underwater adventure. You will be able to see colourful and exotic fish species as well as other animals.
Take your children to the Rancho Texas Park. It is home to several species of birds, mammals and reptiles. The park offers several different themed areas: search for gold in the Gold Mines or take a ride on one of the gentle ponies along the river side. Relax at one of the pools or the Indian Lagoon. Whatever you choose, you will have a fantastic family day.
The Timanfaya National Park is located in the south-western part of the island. It is entirely made up of volcanic soil. It was created by different volcanic eruptions and magmatic activity throughout history. Visitors can only visit certain areas, but it will be worth it. You will feel the heat of the dormant volcano.
El Hierro – A place where you can take a breath from everyday life
El Hierro, the smallest of the Islands, can be reached by ferry from Tenerife or Gran Canaria. Since it is not affected by mass tourism, it is the ideal place for a relaxing holiday.
Start your day by visiting the beautiful church Iglesia Santa Maria de la Concepcion, which is located in the centre of Valverde. Afterwards you can take a stroll through the capital of El Hierro and try a typical Canarian dish such as watercress soup or chickpea casserole.
Have a relaxed afternoon at Tamaduste beach. Enjoy the crystal-clear water as well as the peace and quiet of this charming little bay.
Gran Canaria – Ideal for a holiday full of relaxation and adventures
Take a stroll through the lovely fishing village of Puerto de Mogán. Order a typical Spanish espresso with milk and enjoy the charming flair of the village.
Visit the rum distillery of Arucas in the northern part of the island. The tour lasts 45 minutes and is separated into different stages including a visit to the rum aging cellar and a tasting of a range of rums and liqueurs.
For a special experience you should visit the Guayadeque ravine. After a hike you can choose one of the numerous cave restaurants and sample local wines and traditional Canarian cooking.
Fuerteventura – Combines tradition and modernity
Visit the open-air museum Casa Mueso de Betancuria, where locals display craftsmanship and the traditional making of cheese.
One of the most impressive attractions of Betancuria is the church Iglesia de Santa Maria de Betancuria. It was the first church to be built on the island. The church has magnificent stone floors and an elaborate altar.
Corralejo, the largest resort on Fuerteventura, offers relaxation for everyone. While the children can play in the sand, their parents can enjoy a cocktail at one of the many bars at the harbour. It is also an ideal place for surfing and scuba diving.
Tenerife – The perfect destination for adventures
Tenerife is the largest of the seven main islands. The Siam Water Park is one of the best water parks in Europe. You will find fun attractions and some of the most exciting water rides. Slide down the Tower of Power, a near-vertical 28 m drop, and you will be greeted by sharks at the end.
Enjoy a delicious Frangollo, a traditional Canarian dessert or a tasty Bienmesabe, which literally translates to “tastes good to me”.
Go on a whale and dolphin watching tour. Start at the harbour of Los Cristianos. You will see up to 28 species of sea mammals and other animals.
La Gomera – Ideal for lovers of nature
Choose one of the 67 hiking trails in the Valle Gran Rey region and enjoy the stunning beauty of La Gomera’s nature. Or discover the flora and fauna of the island by visiting its Garajonay National Park in the north.
San Sebastian, the capital of La Gomera, offers many interesting attractions. You can visit a museum that was dedicated to Christopher Columbus or one of the town’s churches.
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Interested in more destinations in Spain? Why not have a look at our article about five day trips from Barcelona?
Are you planning to rent a car in Spain? Why not have a look at our article about renting a car in Spain?
For other interesting facts about the Canary Islands have a look at our Blog.
Travel Insurance for Canary Islands
If you do end up making plans to travel to the Canary Islands, make sure you have travel insurance for your trip.
Travel insurance is important, if you become ill or have an accident you are prepared. Remember that you’ll also be covered against all other mishaps that might befall you during your trip, such as lost luggage or cancelled/delayed flights.
Choose single trip travel insurance if your trip is likely to be your only travelling of the year, or go for annual multi-trip travel insurance if you’re likely to do more travelling during the year too.
Whatever policy you choose with Insure My Holiday, you are assured of a high standard of cover at a low price.
Key benefits of our Gold Plan travel insurance
- Medical Expenses Cover of €5 Million
- Personal Luggage Cover of €2,000
- Personal Money and Documents Cover of €1,600
- Delayed Departure Cover of €200
- Cancellation or Curtailment Cover of €4,000
- Abandonment Cover of €4,000
- Missed Departure Cover of €500
- Personal Accident Cover of €55,000
- Personal Liability Cover of €2,000,000
- Third Party Supplier Insolvency Cover of €2,000
- Schedule Airline Failure Cover of €1,000
- Legal Expenses Cover of €10,000
- Hijack Cover of €1,000
- Catastrophe Cover of €750
- Credit or Cash Card Fraud Cover of €300
Key benefits of our Platinum Plan travel insurance
- Medical Expenses Cover of €10 Million
- Personal Luggage Cover of €3,000
- Personal Money and Documents Cover of €2,000
- Delayed Departure Cover of €400
- Cancellation or Curtailment Cover of €6,000
- Abandonment Cover of €6,000
- Missed Departure Cover of €600
- Personal Accident Cover of €95,000
- Personal Liability Cover of €2,000,000
- Third Party Supplier Insolvency Cover of €2,000
- Schedule Airline Failure Cover of €2,000
- Legal Expenses Cover of €20,000
- Hijack Cover of €2,000
- Catastrophe Cover of €1,000
- Credit or Cash Card Fraud Cover of €500
All are as generous or more generous as you will find with any other travel insurance provider, so it all adds up to even more great reasons to choose Insure My Holiday for all your travel insurance needs.
Just get a travel insurance quote now to see how much you can save!
