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Canary Islands Holidays

Canary Islands

The best islands for winter sun

Dramatic, volcanic landscapes, rugged coastlines and lashings of ‘mojo’ sauce are just some of the things you’ll find in the fascinating Canary Islands. This archipelago – off the coast of northern Africa but very much Spanish – has long been a popular winter sun destination for European holidaymakers. The climate remains fairly temperate all year round, so there isn’t really a bad time to go.

Family holidays on the Canary Islands

Those looking for sand-based bliss will love Canary Islands holidays as there are masses of beaches to choose from. Some are set against rugged volcano-filled landscapes, while others have striking black sands. On Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria you’ll find lots of family-friendly resorts, where you can paddle by day before strolling to a seafront restaurant at night. Many serve Spanish food with a Canarian twist – that’ll be the peppery mojo sauce and grilled Majorero cheese with palm honey. And night owls will be kept happy by lively bars and clubs.

Surfing in Lanzarote, hiking in Tenerife

Holidays to the Canary Islands can also mean getting off the beaten track. Head away from the main resorts on each isle to discover more lush landscapes and volcanic drama – minus the crowds. Northern Tenerife has banana plantations and traditional towns such as cobbled La Laguna, while Lanzarote is home to the Timanfaya National Park and some great surfing beaches. In northern Fuerteventura meanwhile, Corralejo has whitewashed houses, romantic sand dunes and acclaimed restaurants. With so much to see and do, the Canary Islands are a sure-fire holiday hit.

Explore our map of Canary Islands

Discover the Canary Islands

Your Canary Islands questions, answered

Lanzarote can feel like a love letter to Canarian artist, sculptor and architect César Manrique. The island is dotted with his sculptures and buildings, and you can visit his retro art-filled home.
Being islands, the Canaries tend to have very changeable weather. Though it’s rarely cold, it can often be cloudy, sunny and rainy all in one day.
Oh yes. You’ll find the usual Spanish tapas (called ‘enyesques’ here), but also African and Latin American influences, such as arrugadas potatoes – and green or red mojo sauce is everywhere.