Canary Islands which island is better. Canaries

Or should I move there permanently? Then most likely you want to know which is the best of all Canary Islands.

When it's about something more short rest, a person must be careful and evaluate all the advantages and disadvantages well.

Despite the fact that people's preferences greatly depend on them, there are still factors that cannot be neglected.

Infrastructure, education, healthcare, real estate, prices for goods and services, business and entertainment opportunities, transport accessibility, Internet access, etc., all these are essential things in the modern world.

There is no need to do any serious analysis to reduce the choice to two islands - and.

Sylvain

Both places are quite cosmopolitan and home to people from all over the world, so you are unlikely to feel like a foreigner, provided that there are thousands of other people like you here.

As for the other islands, they are simply beautiful, but much more deserted and isolated.

Is Tenerife the best of the Canary Islands? If the best means the most diverse, then the answer is yes, this is it. Several reasons are listed:

1. Tenerife is the largest. Often when a person lives on an island, at this moment there is a strong desire to get into the car and simply move away from the place where you live.

If you choose Tenerife, you can spend the whole day driving around the island and again only see a small part of everything it has to offer.

2. Tenerife is the most cosmopolitan. Although Gran Canaria is considered the most cosmopolitan city in the archipelago, Tenerife is generally more crowded and home to more foreigners.

Björn Ognibeni

Interest in Tenerife reaches even the most remote and remote villages, creating a modern multicultural environment in which more young people feel exceptionally well.

3. The climate is more varied. The windless northern coast of Tenerife is one of the coldest places in the archipelago. Winters are almost like in the Mediterranean, only a little milder.

Janos Balazs

In the south, however, it is completely different - warm and dry. Just for comparison, the daytime temperature in January on the northern coast is about 16-18°C, and on the southern coast it is 21°C.

4. The landscape is richer. Steep rocky coastlines, white and black beaches, deciduous, coniferous and rain forests, snow-capped mountain peaks, semi-desert areas, vast plantations for tropical fruits and strange rock formations are all located within a few kilometers of each other.

Ian Palmer

In fact, not only in the Canary Islands, but in the world as a whole, there are few places that offer such rich diversity in such a small area.

5. Entertainment is everywhere. Regardless of whether we are talking about countless establishments, well-known attractions like Loro Parque in or about the exciting nightlife on the island, Tenerife is incredible and has something for everyone.

6. Development. Tenerife is the largest economic center in the Canary Islands.

It probably doesn’t sound very touristy, but if you decide to settle there permanently and do business, this is one of the most important factors.

The Canary Islands are the most remote autonomous region in Spain, located off the northwestern coast of Africa.

Canaries – amazing place with a special atmosphere, indescribable landscapes of the tropics, dunes, volcanoes, waterfalls, clean beaches and azure waters. The capitals of the autonomy are the cities of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, replacing each other once every four years.

Photo: Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The Canary Islands are a paradise where you can relax all year round. Almost no European beach resort can afford such luxury.

7 islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, El Hierro, La Palma and La Gomera. Most often, tourists choose the first two - the infrastructure is appropriate. However, each of them will be remembered by guests for a long time. This amazing mountains, Teide volcano, black sand on the beaches, Martian landscapes in Timanfaya Park, sheer cliffs Los Organos and unusually shaped junipers and even ancient pyramids.

Look Beautiful places in the Canary Islands in this video:

Tenerife hosts the most popular and largest carnival in the Old World. For two weeks in February everyday life stops and everyone becomes an active participant in the colorful show.

Twice a year there is a sales season in stores - in winter from January 6 to the end of February and throughout the summer. At this time, there is a chance to buy clothes and accessories from luxury brands for ridiculous money.

Geography of the Canary Islands

Photo: National Park Timanfaya

The Canary Islands are an archipelago in the Atlantic formed by 7 volcanic islands:

1. Tenerife is the largest island with the most exotic and varied landscape. Teide volcano (3,718 m) rises mightily against a backdrop of cacti, banana plantations and forests. In the south, the beaches are covered with special black volcanic sand, there are beaches with white sand brought from the Sahara;
2. Fuerteventura is the second largest island, famous for its endless beaches and privacy;
3. Gran Canaria - this island is called a “continent in miniature” for its diversity of landscapes from luxurious beaches, parks to dune desert;
4. Lanzarote - it is called the “island of fire-breathing mountains” because of the three hundred volcanoes on its territory;
5. El Hierro is the smallest and most western island, where you can see unusual shores and landscapes, groves of Barbary thuja and the “end of the world”;
6. La Palma - the greenest corner of the Canary Islands for lovers walking routes, whose beaches have both regular and black sand;
7. La Gomera - interesting island, abounding mountain peaks and tourist routes.

There are 4 national parks in the Canaries that stun the imagination:

1. Caldera Taburiente (Palma Island) is a grandiose crater 10 km in diameter, served last stronghold the Guanches overtaken by the conquistadors;
2. Garajonay (Gomera Island) - laurel forests mysterious in the fogs, which remain from an ancient subtropical forest;
3. Teide (Tenerife) is the highest volcano mountain in Spain (3,718 m) in a huge pit where the rarest plants grow;
4. Timanfaya (Lanzarote) is a land of fire-breathing mountains, craters and eye-catching Martian landscapes.

Climate

Trade winds constantly carry warm air from the Moroccan coast - this is the edge of a year-round resort. Throughout the year, the coast is moderately hot and dry, and you can cool off in the mountains or while swimming in the ocean. Sometimes an unpleasant suffocating and dusty wind blows from Africa - sirocco (kalima).

How to get there and navigate around the place

Photo: Map of Tenerife island

There are direct and connecting flights to the islands. They usually fly to Tenerife and Gran Canaria. A round-trip ticket from Moscow costs about 500 euros with a transfer and up to 1000 euros for a direct flight.

Photo: Map of Gran Canaria

From St. Petersburg you can get to the Canary Islands only with transfers for about 600 euros per person.

Photo: Map of Fuerteventura Island

Ferries run between the islands. There are almost always free spaces, and a car can be transported for an additional fee. The cost of a ferry ticket is 30-40 euros one way, depending on the route.

Photo: Detailed map Lanzarote Islands

A local airline, Binter Canarias, also flies. Airplane tickets are not much more expensive - 40-60 euros.

Photo: Detailed map of El Hierro island

To conveniently travel to the sights and beaches in the Canary Islands, it is easier to rent a car. This pleasure will cost about 25-30 euros per day.

Photo: Map of La Gomera island

Why go

The Canaries are 7 islands on which there are 4 picturesque national parks and many nature reserves included in UNESCO, as well as amazing beaches and the Atlantic Ocean. Here everyone will find an ideal vacation: beach, surfing, diving, exciting excursions, delicious cuisine, wine and fruit .

When to go

The Canaries welcome tourists all year round, but best time for a comfortable trip – May to October. Tourists whose countries have harsh winters choose autumn-winter trips to the Canaries to escape the cold.

Culture of the Canary Islands

Photo: The painting depicts the natives of the island of Tenerife - Guanches

The islands were originally inhabited by Guanches, light-skinned blond or brunette people who were subsequently conquered by the Spaniards in the 15th century and then exterminated or sold into slavery. The small part that remained mixed with the Spaniards and lost their language.

Interesting!The Guanches are the natives of the island of Tenerife, and on the other islands lived the Mahorers, Aurites, and Bimbaches, since until the 15th century there was no connection between the islands.

Colonial-era (15th-century) structures remain in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Other cities were formed already in the 20th century from small fishing settlements.

The main source of income is tourism, but there are others, for example, a layer of volcanic ash turned out to be excellent soil for special grape varieties, from which Canarian wine is then made.

What to see

The Canary Islands attract not only with their unique nature and wonderful climate, but also with numerous ancient monuments and other attractions.

We sorted it out and prepared a list of the most interesting places:

Tenerife

Photo: Tenerife Island

1. Black beaches near the town of Puerto de Santiago.
2. Volcano Teide is the most high point throughout Spain. A large funicular takes tourists to the observation deck at an altitude of 3550 meters.
3. Pyramids of Guimar - pyramids were built not only in Egypt, but also in the Canary Islands. The origin and purpose of these buildings still cause lively debate among archaeologists.
4. Volcano Chinyero – active volcano, whose life is being closely monitored by scientists in order to have time to warn local residents about a possible eruption.
5. Anaga Park - truly unique plants grow here, for example, tree-like daisies and even two-meter dandelions.
6. Siam Park is a huge water park with dozens of slides, slopes and other entertainment.
7. Maska is a small and very inaccessible village where real pirates once lived.
8. Moonscape is an amazing natural landscape near the village of Vilaflor.

Watch a beautiful video about Tenerife:

Photo: Gran Canaria

1. St. Anne's Cathedral - it was built over four centuries, so during its construction the traditions of several were mixed architectural styles: Gothic, neoclassical and baroque.
2. Cueva Pintada is the largest complex of caves in the Canary Islands archipelago, on whose walls there are preserved drawings of primitive people.
3. Columbus's House - the great navigator regularly stayed at the residence of the local governor, waiting for the repairs of his ships to be completed in order to continue his research.
4. Artenara – ancient settlement on the island. Some of the houses are built directly into the rocks, while the living quarters have all modern amenities. The Church of La Ermita de la Cuevita is also located in a separate cave.
5. Black Church of San Juan - located in small town Arucas, among snow-white residential buildings.
6. Botanical Garden Jardín Canario – the garden of cacti, brought to the islands many centuries ago, is of particular value.
7. Telde is a small town whose houses are decorated with ornate carvings and mosaics.

You can see the landscapes of the island in the video:

Photo: Fuerteventura

1. Oasis Park is a huge zoo with many exotic animals.
2. Lobos Island - not far from Fuerteventura, with beautiful shallow bays and lagoons with clear water.
3. Akhuy is a sonorous village for Russian speakers, whose beaches and deep caves lost among the rocks. At the observation deck you can see waves crashing against huge stone boulders.
4. Surfing beaches - thanks to the constant winds, this island is very popular among surfers, as there is almost no calm here.

You can see the nature of the island in the video:

El Hierro

1. Cape Orcilla - it was once considered literally the end of the world, and the prime meridian passed right here.
2. El Golfo Valley has gorgeous gardens and vineyards, among which you can walk for hours.
3. La Frontera is a small village where the houses of local residents with original furnishings have been preserved.
4. Mirador de la Pena is an observation deck at an altitude of 650 meters above sea level, as well as a whole complex for tourists with small houses made of volcanic stone and even a small garden.

The natural landscape of the island of El Hierro can be seen in this video:

La Palma

Photo: Replica of Columbus's ship

1. Caldera de Taburiente Park - in its center there is a deep crater that appeared here hundreds of thousands of years ago. There are several observation platforms around it with convenient paths and paths.
2. Observatory – it houses the largest telescope in Europe.
3. Calle Marítima in Santa Cruz de la Palma is a narrow old street with preserved low houses, decorated with amazing carvings and endless tubs and pots of flowers.
4. Maritime Museum - the main exhibit is a copy of Columbus's own ship.
5. Belmako – archaeological park, in whose caves rock paintings of the ancient people who inhabited this island are preserved.
6. La Glorieta is a unique square in the city of Las Manchas, made of bright multi-colored mosaics.

You will definitely like the fabulous nature of the island of La Palma, you can see it in the video:

Lanzarote

Photo: Hameol del Agua

1. Jameol del Agua is a complex of caves formed many thousands of years ago during a volcanic eruption. Part of it is open to tourists, and the walls and interior halls are beautifully illuminated.
2. Teguise is a small settlement where an old 14th century fortress and the Spinola Palace have been preserved. On Sundays, the largest market on the island is held here, attracting everyone who wants to sell or buy.
3. Yaiza – This small settlement was home to wealthy merchants whose beautiful original houses were preserved in excellent condition. Yaisa was twice recognized as the most beautiful village throughout Spain.

The nature and landscape of the island can be seen in this video:

La Gomera

Photo: Garajonay Park

1. Garajonay Park - by territory national park scattered are the remains of ancient volcanoes, whose peaks have been modified due to erosion.
2. The Valle Gran Rey valley has wonderful landscapes, cozy villages and comfortable beaches with clean water and unusual black sand.
3. Hermigua - endless banana plantations.

The program “Heads and Tails” also did not ignore the Canary Islands - they came to the islands of Tenerife, Gran Canaria and La Palma.

The beauty of the island can be seen in this video:

Main cities and places of interest

On the island of Gran Canaria there are magnificent dunes in the Maspalomas area, old City Galdar, canyons, caves of Cueva Pintada with bright drawings of the Guanches, the original village of Pueblo Canario, Aqualand water park.

The island of Tenerife attracts tourists with Mount Teide volcano and extraordinary black beach sand.

Photo: Tenerife Island

The island of Lanzarote surprises with its Martian landscape and the Timanfaya nature reserve with observation deck Mirador del Rio.

The island of La Gomera is home to the misty laurel forests of the Garajonay National Park and natural columns and basalt, reminiscent of the pipes of the Las Organos organ.

On the island of Hierro you can see the Norman settlement and Lagartario Park.

On the island of Palma there is the Taburiente Nature Reserve - a grandiose crater 10 km in diameter, petroglyphs of La Zarza.

The island of Fuerteventura is wild paradise, a land of surfers and divers, caves and mills, the Betancuria Museum on an extinct crater.

What to do in the Canary Islands

Photo: Holidays on the islands

The Canary Islands are a paradise for tourists. We have collected the top 20 most important things to do when arriving in the Canaries:

1. Lie on a black beach on the ocean.
2. Try authentic Canarian meat soup at Rancho Canaria in Fuertoventura.
3. Take a surfboard and catch a wave.
4. Feel like you are on an alien planet among the lunar landscape in Tenerife.
5. Visit Columbus's house in Tenerife, and then climb a replica of his ship on La Palma.
6. Climb to the top of the Chinyero volcano crater.
7. Visit the cave complex of Jameol del Agua in Lanzarote.
8. Go to the observatory on La Palma.
9. Snorkel in the pristine lagoons of Lanzerote.
10. Stand on the edge of Cape Orcilla on El Hierro.
11. Soak up the black sand of Tenerife.
12. Drink Canarian wine made from grapes grown on volcanic ash.
13. Go through one of the trekking routes in Anaga Park, for example, the “Path of Senses” or “Chamorga”.
14. Take a photo on Mars on the island of Lanzarote.
15. Enjoy the panorama of Mount Teide while enjoying a refreshing drink.
16. Visit Timanfaya Park to taste meat cooked over a volcanic crater.
17. See unusual vineyards on a volcano on the island of Lanzarote.
18. Indulge in romance on the dunes of Maspalomas.
19. Try to decipher the messages of the Guanches in the caves of Cueva Pintada.
20. Relax your soul in the lap of nature of the island of Fuerteventura.

Shopping (What and where to buy)

Photo: Shopping in the Canary Islands

The main shopping is located in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, but other islands also sell interesting authentic souvenirs to remember this exciting trip.

Top 5 most popular purchases in the Canary Islands:

1. Obsidian is a piece of solidified lava.
2. Mojo sauce – stores have a huge selection of different flavors in beautiful bottles.
3. Palm honey is actually not honey at all, but a syrup made from the pith of date palms.
4. Cactus jam is a dessert made from the fruits of a certain type of cactus.
5. Ceramic figurines – in small villages, local artisans create real hand-made masterpieces.

IN tourist cities There are a huge number of Las Americas and Costa Adeje in Tenerife shopping centers and various brand stores.

Gran Canaria offers plenty of choice in Las Palmas and Playa del Ingles.

Prices

The Euro is used in the Canary Islands. It is advisable to exchange rubles for foreign currency before the trip, otherwise the exchange rate on the spot will be very unfavorable.

A cup of coffee in a cafe costs an average of 1.70 euros.

Lunch at a restaurant costs about 20-25 euros per person. At the same time, many of them have a la carte offers - a set lunch. This option costs less – on average 10-15 euros.

Product cost:

Bread – 1.10 euros

Milk 1 l – 0.70 euros

Chicken 1 kg – 5.60 euros

Tomatoes 1 kg – 0.90 euros

Fish (dorado) 1 kg – 6.5 euros

One taxi ride costs on average 25-40 euros, depending on how far you need to go.

The average budget for a trip to the Canary Islands per person per day is approximately 100-120 euros.

Where to live

Photo: Hotel Apartments Los Telares

On the large islands there are a huge number of offers in inexpensive and cozy hotels: an overnight stay will cost 30-40 euros per day per person. There are also very good hostels where you can stay for about 20-25 euros per night.

On the less popular islands of El Hierro, La Palma and Lanzarote, there are fewer offers, but the prices are not so high. A room in a 3 star hotel costs about 25 euros.

1. Apartaments Islamar Arrecife (Av. Rafael Gonzalez 15, 35500 Arrecife, Lanzarote) - cozy hotel with wonderful service on the ocean.
2. Brenas Garden Aparthotel (Urb. Finca Amado II, 38712 Brena Baja, La Palma) is a small hotel with beautiful views from the rooms.
3. Silken Atlantida Santa Cruz (Avenida Tres de Mayo | (corner of Aurea Díaz Flores), 38005 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Tenerife) - excellent location and comfort.
4. Hotel Faycan (Calle Nicolas Estevanez 61, 35007 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Gran Canaria) is perhaps the best value for money on this island.
5. JM Puerto del Rosario (Avenida Ruperto Gonzalez Negrin 9, 35600, Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura) - small rooms with modern equipment and a good location.
6. Apartments Los Telares (Calle Convento | Main Road 10 (GM-1 Km. 17), 38820 Hermigua, La Gomera) is a remote hotel where peace and quiet reign. Nearby are banana plantations and mountains.
7. Hotel Ida Ines (Calle Belgara Alta 2, 38911 Frontera, El Hierro) is a modern hotel with all the amenities for a quality holiday.

Travel plan, tours for 1-3-7 days

We have put together an interesting plan for an exciting trip to the Canary Islands, trying to capture all the best things that cannot be missed. We recommend traveling between the islands by ferry. If you have not 10 days, but a full two weeks, then we recommend devoting one day each to the islands of La Palma and La Gomera.

Day	Morning	Dinner	Evening
1	Tenerife. Los Gigantes. Relaxing on the beach next to the rocks.	Trip to Teide Park	Puerto de la Cruz. Botanical Garden. Castle of Saint Felipe.
2	Tenerife. Loro Parque		Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The unique building of the Auditorio in Art Nouveau style. Historical center with churches and streets.
3	Tenerife. Costa Adeje. Waterpark Siam Park.		Walk along the beaches along the sea.
4	Gran Canaria Island.	Artenara Park.	Cueva Pintada. Black Church in Arucas.
5	Gran Canaria. Palmitos Park with a wonderful dolphin show.		Botanical Garden Jardin Canario. Telde town.
6	Gran Canaria. Port of Isleta. Relaxation by the ocean.	Underwater sculpture museum Museo Atlantico.	Columbus House Museum. The Nestor Museum is a pinacoteca of the outstanding Canarian artist.
7	Fuerteventura Island.	Oasis Park. The town of Akhuy.	Lobos Island.
8	Relax on Corralejo beach - one of the best on the island.	Caleta de Fuste. Dream House Museum, where thousands of models of transport, dolls and even entire doll houses are collected.	Walk along the promenade near the port of Puerto del Rosario.
9	Lanzarote Island. Timanfaya National Park.	Streets of Teguise.	Village of Yaiza.
10	Volcanic caves and unusual landscape Cueva de los Naturalistas.	House-Museum of Cesar Manrique, a brilliant architect and sculptor who managed to unite natural caves and education with modern technologies and create an original home.	Walk around Arrecife along the coast along the embankments.

What and where to eat

Photo: Paella with seafood

Despite the fact that dishes from mainland Spain are also common in the Canary Islands, they also have their own culinary peculiarities.

What you must try in the Canaries:

1. Paella with seafood. According to traveler reviews, the best paella is prepared in the El Rincon del Arroz restaurant in Tenerife (Avenida Sabandenos S/N | Los Cristianos).
2. Jacket potatoes (papas arrugadas), they are loved here, are on the menu. It is served with mojo sauce. Moreover, each establishment has its own recipe for its preparation. On the island of Gran Canaria, the most delicious papas arrugadas are served at the El Senador restaurant (Paseo Faro del, 2, 35100, Maspalomas, Gran Canaria).
3. Gofio (gofio) - flour made from roasted grains of barley, corn, and sometimes beans. Flour products are prepared from it and served with dishes instead of bread. A very tasty snack is served at the Chip-Chipi restaurant on the island of La Palma (Lugar Juan Mayor 42).
4. Lamb or goat meat fried in olive oil with spices (Asado carne de cabra) - on the island of Fuerteventura it is recommended to try this dish at a place called Kiosco Bar Las Naves (Urb. Risco Prieto, calle El Henequen, Corralejo, La Oliva).
5. Rancho Canario is a thick and fatty meat soup made from beef, chicken and rabbit with chickpeas. On the island of Lanzarote, it is most often ordered at the Patio Canario restaurant (Plaza de Pueblo, Avenida Islas Canarias).

Kitchen

Traditional dishes: bright rich Rancho Canario soup, marinated carne de fiesta meat, stunning bienmesabe dessert made from lemons, almonds, cinnamon and yolks, as well as fresh seafood. The Guanches left their culinary secret to the Canaries - gofio. It is not a stand-alone dish, but a base for hundreds of dishes, made from ground roasted grains and beans. Literally everything is prepared from gofio - from soup to ice cream.

Best excursions according to reviews

The Canary Islands are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. And there is a lot of interesting things here. We have collected the top 5 best excursions in the Canaries:

1. Fishing in the Atlantic Ocean - a modern boat, equipped with the latest technology, will take you far away, and an experienced guide and captain will show and tell you who and how to catch.
2. Reach for the stars - a night tour of Tenerife in the arms of a powerful telescope, through which celestial bodies will appear almost in the palm of your hand.
3. Sightseeing tour of Gran Canaria - see the main thing and not miss anything.
4. To the bottom of the sea - no, there is no need to drown. You need to use scuba gear and explore the underwater inhabitants without harming your own health.
5. Walk through the caves of El Hierro - put on comfortable sports shoes and go in search of treasure hidden by medieval pirates.

If you are interested in diving or like to look under water world, then this video is for you:

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Do you know where the Canary Islands are? This amazing archipelago is located off the coast of Morocco in the Atlantic Ocean. In my own way geographical location The Canary Islands belong to the African continent, but from an administrative point of view they are part of Spain. From the island of the archipelago closest to Africa, called Fuerteventur, the coast of Morocco is only ninety-six kilometers away.

Popular holiday destination

The Canary Islands (see photo below) are a real paradise for numerous tourists. This archipelago has a unique location. In addition, the holiday season in the Canary Islands lasts all year round.

At any time here you can enjoy the sea breeze, warm sun and a rich variety of fauna and flora. The most beautiful beaches of the islands, which stretch for tens of kilometers, many unique parks and reserves, museums, interesting exhibitions, as well as other attractions will not allow tourists to get bored. In addition, the archipelago constantly hosts various music festivals, which attract many people from all European countries.

Geography

The Canary archipelago includes seven islands. They all have different sizes and are located near the coast of sunny Spain. Each of these islands has its own characteristics, so those tourists who have not yet visited this unique place, find it difficult to choose which part of the archipelago they would like to visit.

What do you prefer for relaxation? In the center of the archipelago are the two largest islands. These are Gran Canaria and Tenerife. They are the most popular among tourists. Vacationers make their choice because of transport accessibility islands. They are the easiest to reach.

Climate

Holidays in the Canary Islands will leave unforgettable impression. This will be facilitated by the mild climate of the archipelago. Winter here is quite warm. The average temperature of this coldest period ranges from nineteen to twenty-three degrees. Summer on the islands is hot. During this season the air warms up to thirty degrees. The coastal waters of the islands delight tourists with comfortable temperatures in summer. They warm up to +20-23 degrees. In winter they average temperature somewhat lower. It is +17-20 degrees.

Where to stay?

If you have chosen a holiday in the Canary Islands, then know that this pleasure is not cheap. However high price The price for a trip is fully justified by the quality of services provided by hotels, restaurants and shops. According to reviews from those who have already visited this fabulous archipelago, everywhere visitors are treated with understanding and respect, and problems that arise are resolved with a smile and very quickly.

Tourists who have chosen the Canary Islands as their holiday destination will be able to choose hotels according to their financial capabilities and wishes. It is worth keeping in mind the following: regardless of the level of the hotel, the quality of service will be equally high. The difference lies only in the range of services that are provided in the territories different hotels. For example, the most fashionable establishments like the Seaside Grand Hotel Residencia and Royal Garden Villas have their own beauty salons, golf courses, massage rooms and restaurants. If the hotel is three-star, then tourists on its territory will only be able to visit a cafe and a swimming pool (among the most popular budget options- Dunas Caleta and La Carabela Apartments).

If you fly to the Canary Islands, the hotels of the archipelago will delight you with an all-inclusive system. According to most vacationers, this is very convenient. After all, in this case there is no need to worry about finding a restaurant for dinner. You can carefree enjoy the sea air and sun, and then try National dishes Spain, prepared by hotel chefs.

Independent holiday

Some tourists do not want to depend on the daily routine that the hotel offers them. In this case, they are given the opportunity to organize independent holiday in the Canary Islands. This eliminates the need to contact a tour operator.

Independent holidays in the Canary Islands are especially common among those tourists who have been to the archipelago more than once. However, this is only possible if you have free time to organize. This option has its advantages. Thus, a vacation organized without the help of a tour operator will cost almost twice as much. Arriving on any island of the archipelago, rent an apartment. Moreover, this could be a villa in a quiet location on the ocean or in the mountains. Accommodation is offered close to entertainment venues and tourist hangouts. For those who travel big companies, it will be possible to rent a villa for several families at once. On one's own organized holiday in the Canary Islands is available due to the absence of problems with the usual diet. Despite the fact that the archipelago is located outside the mainland zone, the cuisine there is almost entirely European. That is why travelers can easily have a wonderful meal in many restaurants and cafes or buy groceries in stores.

For those who prefer an active holiday, cars are offered for rent. With help personal transport you will be able to visit many places and gain vivid impressions. After such trips, many tourists say that best vacation- in the Canary Islands.

They don't just rent a car. You can rent a bicycle or motorcycle. Reviews from tourists who visited the archipelago indicate reasonable prices for these services and the presence of numerous companies that rent out a variety of vehicles. Well, for those who do not want to be distracted by managing transport during their vacation, we can advise traveling by local buses. If you want to stay different islands archipelago, it is advisable to use the services of air transport or rent a boat and take a fascinating boat trip on it.

Treats

One of the highlights of the local cuisine is the highland Canarian potato. It is boiled in its jacket and served with red hot or green spicy sauce. Local restaurants offer a variety of seafood dishes. A variety of fish, shrimp, squid, langoustines and spiny lobsters are used to prepare them. In some restaurants, the visitor can choose his victim right in the aquarium and watch the process of its preparation.

Winter holidays

There is also a category of vacationers who strive to visit hot countries during the cold season. These are people who prefer active pastime. A winter holiday in the Canary Islands will be filled with vivid impressions for them, despite the rainy weather by local standards and the leaves falling from the trees. It is during this period that many tourists come to the archipelago, seeking to escape the slushy and cold days of their region. Winter holidays in the Canary Islands (see photo below) allows you to sit with friends in a restaurant, play various games on the beach, have fun and simply relax. The archipelago is beautiful at this time. Its climate pampers vacationers with warm and on sunny days, and also gives a magnificent tan.

Do tourists like holidays in the Canary Islands in winter? Reviews from numerous travelers who visited the archipelago during the coldest months of the year indicate an unforgettable experience.

Tourists prefer to walk to snow-capped mountain peaks, visit most interesting excursions, carried out by historical places region, go to exhibitions and museums. The spa treatments offered in beauty salons have received rave reviews, allowing for great relaxation.

Beach holiday

The coasts of the islands are not only the result of the work of natural forces, but also the product of human industriousness. The fact is that all the islands of the archipelago are of volcanic origin. That is why nature did not reward them with a large number of beaches. What can be seen today on the islands is mostly man-made. Each beach is individual and magnificent. Even the sand on them can be of several varieties - regular yellow, white volcanic and black. There are beaches to which sand was brought from the Sahara Desert and Dominican Republic, and were also mined from the ocean floor.

Reviews from tourists about these places are only enthusiastic. Which beach to choose? Everyone must decide this for themselves.

Where to go for tan lovers?

Beach holidays in the Canary Islands are very popular among tourists. So, paradise Gran Canaria offers visitors a pleasant time. This island has the most beautiful European beaches. Among them there are small and large, rocky and sandy, full of entertainment and quiet. The most famous beaches The islands are Maspalomas and El Inglés. Eight kilometers of their territory is occupied by huge dunes that were once brought from the Sahara by the Sirocco wind.

Playa del Igles beach is considered one of the most popular in Europe. Its length is 2.7 km. Here tourists can not only enjoy the warm water and hot sun, but also ride a jet ski, water ski, windsurf, and go sailing. Numerous eateries and restaurants located along the coast offer their services.

Another magnificent beach in Gran Canaria is Maspalomas. It literally amazes the imagination of tourists with the amazing shapes of the dunes, which were sculpted by the wind from fine sand, as well as the blue waters Atlantic Ocean. According to tourists, this beach is especially popular with families who come on vacation with children. At Maspalomas there are restaurants, bars and numerous shops, here you can ride jet skis and pedalos, and also go scuba diving to the bottom of the ocean in order to get acquainted with the inhabitants of the deep sea.

It is impossible to go on holiday to the Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria or other parts of the archipelago) without visiting the magnificent beaches. If you prefer fine golden and white sand, then you need to get to Fuerteventura. The wonderful beaches of this island offer tourists a holiday for every taste. For those who want privacy, Kofeta is suitable. This uncrowded beach is located on the Jandia Peninsula. However, it is worth keeping in mind that in windy weather swimming there is prohibited due to the appearance of large waves.

The most popular beach is located in the southeast of Jandia. It is called "Sotaverno". There is also the most exotic beach on the island of Fuerteventura - "Ahuy". It is covered with fine gravel and volcanic sand. The beaches located on the coast of Corralejo are suitable for surfing enthusiasts. The World Championships are held here in July-August every year. this species sports

As for Tenerife, most of the beaches on this island are of artificial origin. Coastal lines created by nature have been improved by local residents. Dams have been built on them to protect them from sea currents. The longest, narrowest and most comfortable beaches are located on south coast islands.

Not far from the capital of the resort there are two beaches of amazing beauty. One of them is Playa de Tagana. It amazes with black sand. The second beach has a more familiar appearance. It's called Las Teresitas. Its fine white sand was once blown from the Sahara by the wind. "Las Teresitas" and "Playa de Tagana", stretching from San Andres, form a large-scale ensemble of artificial beaches.

A truly magnificent spectacle can be seen in the city center of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This is where the Playa de Martianez beach is located. An area of ​​thirty-three thousand square meters looks unusual. A mountain lake appears before your eyes, containing running sea water. This body of water has small islands on which bars, restaurants and beautiful fountains are comfortably located.

White sand beaches stretch along the entire coast of the island. They start from Punta Salena and stretch to Punta dela Gaviola. Then they are replaced by beaches with red volcanic or colorful black sand. And if relaxing holiday If you don’t like the waters of the ocean, then you can go to the El Medano area. He is considered best place for windsurfing.

Choosing a place to stay

In the language of the ancient Canarians, Tenerife means "Snowy Mountain". This island is the largest in the archipelago. The Teide volcano is located on its territory. In addition, Tenerife is divided in half by a mountain range. That is why local residents They call it an island with two faces. Due to the location of the mountain range, Tenerife experiences two distinct climate zones. So, in the north of the island it is humid, and in the southern part it is dry and sunny.

Tourists will spend unforgettable days in Tenerife. There are many different entertainment venues here that will not let you get bored. In addition, this part of the archipelago is best connected to the continent by transport links.

The greenest Canary Islands (see photo below) are La Palma and La Gomera. In these places, nature has preserved its original appearance. They will delight tourists with a variety of fauna and flora. Only on La Palma and La Gomera will it be possible to appreciate all the beauty and splendor of the Canary archipelago.

The island of Gran Canaria is very popular among tourists. After all, only on its territory there are all conditions for year-round good recreation. But the island of Fuerteventura, on which it is located a large number of attractions, unfortunately, do not have stable weather.

Whichever part of the archipelago is chosen, a holiday in the Canary Islands will, without a doubt, leave only good impressions. Each island is worthy of attention and will give visitors a huge amount of positive emotions.

Before going on holiday to the Canary Islands, everyone will definitely think about which island to choose for their trip? Total greatest inhabited islands 7, all of them are equipped with everything necessary for a successful holiday, have an exotic nature and a wonderful climate. There is practically no weather that is too cold or hot; the pleasant temperature typical of spring reigns all year round. But each island is still unique and everyone can choose the right one for themselves. So, where is the best place to holiday in the Canary Islands?

Tenerife

Undoubtedly, the most famous and largest island of all the Canary Islands is Tenerife. Its development began in the last century. In order to ensure good vacation, they brought tons of sand from the Sahara itself, built reliable fences to protect vacationers from high waves, roads, and hotels. Even before these events, Tenerife was very suitable for tourism, but such measures made it number one on the list of resorts in terms of comfort. More than 3 million tourists visit Tenerife every year, which means that such efforts and resources were not in vain. Tourists can enjoy warm clear water, clean sandy beaches, comfortable rooms, and interesting exotic excursions.

Fuerteventura

For lovers of calm beach holiday The island of Fuerteventura is suitable. It, like Tenerife, is quite large in size, but at the same time much quieter and more secluded. There are not many noisy tourists and entertainment venues here, but there are beaches for every taste. Their total number is 150, and the color of the sand varies from gray to black. Thanks to its calmer pace, Fuerteventura is perfect for holidays with children, active activities aquatic species sports, which, despite the sparse population, are very well developed here.

Gran Canaria

This third largest island will delight lovers of hiking and cycling. During the journey you can see many different forms of landscape: forests, mountains, caves and even dormant volcano. All trails and paths are specially equipped, so vacationers will not feel any discomfort. The beaches of Gran Canaria also do not disappoint, there are about 300 of them to suit every taste with offers different types water sports.

The Canary Islands are the best places to relax and are of interest to many tourists. But no matter which of the islands everyone chooses, they will fully enjoy comfortable living conditions, high-quality beach holidays, wonderful natural views, and the opportunity to engage in various sports activities.

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Before you go on a trip to one of the Canary Islands, you need to think carefully and decide what you want to get from this trip. Is your choice a fashion statement based on the fact that “all your friends have already been there”? Or is this a way to stand out from the general crowd of compatriots who do not want or do not have the opportunity to break out of the borders of Egypt and Turkey that have become boring?

If the slogan “I want it like everyone else” is decisive for you, then you should go straight to the nearest travel agency. There you will become the happy owner of a standard package, which is provided to 99% of tourists dreaming of the Canaries, and you will go where you will encounter these 99%. In this case, the cost of your voyage will be at least twice its real price.

How to be? What can you do to make the most of the amount allocated for your trip and at the same time avoid the standard paths trodden by millions of tourists? At the same time, to wipe the noses of those who consider themselves “great conquerors of the world”, traveling from time to time only to the most popular tourist places? Which island should you choose for your vacation? Is it possible to visit several islands in one trip?

Quite a lot is written about the Canary Islands, but with such a volume of information it is difficult to decide which island is best to choose for your vacation. Surprisingly, despite their relatively close location to each other, all the islands are completely different and dissimilar from each other. The only common features are the presence of beaches (logically, they are islands!), rather dry southern parts of the islands and green northern parts of the islands. All the islands of the archipelago are characterized by a year-round mild climate, amazingly beautiful nature, a European-style high level of service and a lot of entertainment.

The Canaries are especially popular among fans of kitesurfing, windsurfing, and ocean surfing, since due to the local terrain, these sports can be practiced here all year round. The largest islands are Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, La Gomera, Hierro and La Palma.

Tenerife

The island of Tenerife is especially popular among our compatriots, especially its South part. It is worth noting that Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and here you will find the most developed tourism infrastructure. The south of the island is similar to Naama Bay in Egypt: an artificially created recreation area awaits you - closed resorts, small restaurants and a beach. There will be no real authentic Canarian village here. If the purpose of your trip is just to lie on the beach, you will definitely like it. North of the island completely different, freed from mass Russian tourism, mostly Europeans vacation there. The town is very popular Puerto de la Cruz, where the famous "Loro Parque"; and the proximity to the main attractions of the island (the capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife, towns Oratava, Icod de Vinos, La Laguna and the visiting card of the island - the beach Las Terrecitas) make this town very convenient for lovers of not only the beach, but also active rest. It should be noted that, compared to other Canary Islands, prices are quite high (especially in the south).

Gran Canaria

The second most important and most visited island of the Canary archipelago. It is famous for its magnificent golden beaches, several kilometers long, as well as its clear tourism infrastructure. Unlike Tenerife, most beaches have breakwaters that hold back ocean waves and allow the water to warm up more. Some beaches are deliberately preserved in their original form for surfers.

Also, unlike Tenerife, Gran Canaria has not yet been spoiled by the love of Russian tour operators, the lack of charter flights makes it unattractive for our compatriots, however, even if you do find a ready-made tour to the island through an agency, keep in mind that there are no direct flights to Gran Canaria from Russia no, most likely you will have a transfer in Madrid or Barcelona.

The development of tourism in Gran Canaria began from the capital of the island, Las Palmas, but at the moment this city is rather considered by vacationers as cultural and historical Center, therefore there are no closed all-inclusive resorts in the capital. For a beach holiday, the most popular are three tourist areas in the south - Maspalomas, Puerto Rico And Puerto de Mogán. This small towns, more similar to the well-known Lazarevskoye or Loo, only in the European style.

All the main attractions of the island are located in the north, so if you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of a real Canarian village, try authentic cuisine, visit a rum factory and go shopping and outlets, the best option for choosing a place to stay would be the capital of the island. Las Palmas. Unlike Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas has its own beaches, so combining a beach holiday with a cultural program is quite easy. The four-kilometer Las Canteras beach is considered one of the best city beaches in the entire archipelago.

La Gomera

La Gomera is one of the most flowery and green islands of the entire archipelago. A visit to the island is like an embrace of nature itself, because only here are preserved thermophilic forests, growing throughout the Mediterranean several million years ago. Due to the specific climate, this island is distinguished by its pristine untouched nature, vast vineyards, gorges and cliffs. Homera is the ideal choice for those who prefer to combine beach holiday with hiking. There are few beaches on the territory of these islands; most of them are small and secluded. A few days will be enough for you to explore La Gomera.

El Hierro

The smallest of the Canary Islands. The island itself is far from the concept of tourism, and local residents believe that this should continue. Rest here only individual, is especially popular rural tourism: accommodation in mini-hotels with 5-6 rooms, more like colonial Canarian mansions. Who goes to Hierro? Divers! This is a real underwater paradise for those who cannot imagine their life without scuba diving. Sandy deserted beaches, rocky mountains, underwater caves and an amazing water world are what attract diving enthusiasts here.

The island offers many opportunities for the traveler. Those wishing to explore the island on foot will enjoy a varied landscape filled with the aromas of plants and stones warmed by the sun. Several years ago, the entire island was declared a nature reserve. An ideal place for those who want to get away from the frantic pace of modern life and get a little privacy.

La Palma

The specifics of the island are the same as on Homer - a sea of ​​greenery, gorges, cliffs and secluded, but at the same time quite comfortable sandy beaches made of black volcanic sand. Some beaches are equipped with artificial breakwaters, which not only hold back ocean waves, but also create excellent conditions for diving And snorkeling. A little advice - when choosing a hotel on Palma, opt for hotels in the western part of the island. Canary sunsets are considered some of the most beautiful in the world, but you won’t be able to see this if you live in east coast- the sun hides behind the mountains quite early, and the sunset is simply not visible.

Four to five days is enough to explore Palma. Please note that this island not considered "typical beach", most of its guests are lovers of outdoor activities. The entire island is equipped with signs for “roads of health” and is designed for hiking of varying length and degree of difficulty.

Fuerteventura

It is called the “most African” island of the Canary archipelago due to its proximity to the coast of Africa. The coast of Fuerteventura is blown by strong Atlantic winds all year round, which has brought great fame to the island among outdoor enthusiasts. But the island is not just about surfing: here are the oldest rocks of the archipelago, marine remains dating back to before the formation of the Canary Islands. Here you can enjoy views of real Canarian villages, feel the spirit of the colonial era, and give free rein to your imagination at the foot of sacred mountain, so revered among the aborigines and try the best goat cheese in Europe.

It can be called a plus lack of mass international tourism , in many ways Fuerteventura is a corner that has not yet been touched by modern man wildlife. This is an ideal place for a quiet and measured beach holiday. The downside (or maybe a plus) is the lack of traditional resort attributes. When darkness falls, life on the island comes to a standstill.

Lanzarote

The name of this island is unlikely to mean anything to most of our compatriots. While surfers know about Fuerteventura, little is known about Lanzarote. This island is called “fire-breathing” - there are still places here with such hot soil that a bunch of straw thrown onto the ground burns out in a few seconds. A significant part of Lanzarote is covered with solidified lava - consequences powerful eruption several volcanoes at once, which lasted 6 years almost 3 centuries ago. Fantastic Martian landscapes, vineyards miraculously growing from the ground, a restaurant in the mouth of a volcano - Lanzarote is completely different from other islands of the archipelago.

This island is attractive, first of all, for lovers of secluded relaxation on snow-white sandy beaches, as well as for photography enthusiasts who are willing to travel considerable distances for the sake of an interesting and unusual shot. An undeniable advantage is a certain “exclusivity” of the holiday, immersion in the absolutely surreal atmosphere of this unusual island.

At this point, our acquaintance with the Canaries can safely be considered complete. Moreover, we can safely say that when traveling on your own, you will be the only one in your environment, at least, who can boast of such a rich and informative trip. And if you also stay a few days in Madrid - 100% of your vacation will be the envy of everyone.