The Top 10 Things To Do In The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are one of the most popular holiday destinations amongst groups of friends, families, and couples alike. Indeed, this is largely due to the diversity of landscape throughout the islands and the plethora of incredible activities and things to do! Here are 10 things you must see and do when you visit The Canary Islands...
1. Roque Nublo, Gran Canaria
Roque Nublo is a volcanic rock on the island of Gran Canaria. It's name appropriately translates as Cloud Rock, and comes from the impressive atural feature's habit of disappearing into the clouds that often envelop the top of Gran Canaria. If you visit on a cloudy day, it's always worth waiting for that magical photograph as the rock often pops out of the clouds for just a few seconds.
2. Stargazing
If you haven’t got a few million lying around to splash out on a journey into space, then take a trip to Tenerife instead. It's the next best thing. You're guaranteed to see stars like you've never seen them before and make a wish on a shooting star or two!
3. Mount Teide, Tenerife
Mount Teide is a volcano on Tenerife in the Canary Islands. It is a massive 3,718-metres tall and the highest point in Spain. The best way to reach the highest point of the peak is by cable car where, once at the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro. It is possible to take guided walks up to the top of the volcano, however it is advised that you will need a fairly high level of fitness to undertakethe climb, which takes around six hours!
4. Surf School
There are surf spots on all the islands, however the main surfing destination are the larger islands of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. Their southern location allows swells the time to form in the Atlantic and the long wave periods in the north makes the conditions perfect for beginners. Hot summers, warm winters, and consistent swells make the Canaries an ideal surfing destination.
5. Siam Water Park, Tenerife
Established as one of the best water parks in the world and perhaps the best water attraction in Europe, Siam is a perfect day out with all of the family. Want to stay close by? Check out our apartments in Costa Adeje.
6. Cueva de los Verdes, Lanzarote
Created around 3,000 years ago, Cueve de los Verdes is a lava tube on the island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands. The stunning cave lies within the Monumento Natural del Malpaís de La Corona, a protected area of the Canary Islands and delivers a truly unique experience! It is also famous for the concert hall located near the entrance and exit of the cave, which can seat up to 500 people.
7. Auditorio de Tenerife
Now one of the most emblematic buildings of Spanish architecture, the majestic profile of this auditorium has become an archetypal symbol of the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is also regarded as the finest modern building in the Canary Islands. The auditorium is also home to the Tenerife Symphony Orchesta, perfect for a romantic evening with your other half!
8. Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote
If you're looking for an 'otherworldly' experience, this part of Lanzarote is a must, due to its impressive temperatures, unique 'Martian' landscape and rare plant species. Dry kindling thrown into a hole in the ground will catch fire immediately and water poured into a bore hole erupts in steam seconds later. For an even more unique experience, 'El Diablo' restaurant serves traditional Canarian food, cooked using the geothermal heat (a cast-iron grill placed over a large hole in the ground).
9. Scuba Diving
The Canary Islands are the PERFECT location for scuba diving. The islands have not suffered from the over-fishing of the Mediterranean, and the waters are much warmer throughout the year than they are in the Med. As well as this, The Canaries are also a great place to see many of the bigger species, such as angel sharks and rays. The ideal place to enjoy scuba diving on your holiday, whether you're a beginner or a dive master!
10. Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo, Gran Canaria
This large botanical garden in Gran Canaria is the largest in Spain, encompassing an enormous 27 hectares. The garden hosts a broad range of Macronesian flora, which are indigenous across the Canary Islands and is also home to many species on the verge of extinction. With a restaurant on site, it's the perfect place to spend a day enjoying nature!
Have you been to The Canary Islands? What were your highlights?
Never been but dying to go? Take a look at our villas in the Canary Islands.