Canary Islands for many decades they have remained one of the most attractive places for a beach holiday on our planet. The picturesque archipelago consists of 7 islands of volcanic origin. They are located in the Atlantic Ocean, near the northwestern coast of the African continent (Morocco and the western regions of the Sahara are closest to the Canaries). The islands are part of Spain.

Canary Islands on the map

The Canary Islands include not only 7 large and inhabited island formations, but also 6 tiny, practically uninhabited islets. .

Only one of them, the island of Graciosa with an area of ​​about 30 km 2, has a population. Roque del Este, Alegranza (area 10 km2), Roque del Oeste, Lobos (area 6 km2) and Montaña Clara (area 1 km2) are real corners of virgin nature

Canary Islands on the world map The local climate is of the tropical trade wind type and is considered warm and fairly dry. Since the islands are located close to the Sahara Desert, the sirocco often blows from there, bringing heat and sandstorms. Most often, dry weather prevails in eastern islands

. The rest of the region is dominated by northeastern trade winds, bringing precipitation and somewhat softening the African heat. The cold Canary Current off the coast of the archipelago also softens the climate, although it is responsible for a decrease in precipitation. Tourists are also attracted by the lack of heat on local beaches. On the most mountainous islands - Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Palma - the weather changes dramatically when descending from the mountains to the coast. If in the coastal zone, even in winter, the thermometer rarely drops below +10–20 °C, then on mountain peaks

At the same time, there may be a thick layer of snow. In summer, the air temperature is +20–30 °C, and the weather is mostly dry and clear. The northern islands generally receive more rainfall than the southern ones.

Seven major islands of the Canary archipelago

• Large islands are popular among tourists, including:
• Homer;
• Hierro;

Palm;

This is the largest and most populous Spanish island not only in the archipelago, but throughout Spain. With an area of ​​just over 2000 km2, more than 900 thousand people live here. Tenerife is home to one of the two capitals of the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The island is ideal for diving and exploring ancient cultures. It is here that you can see 6 mysterious step pyramids of Guimar, picturesque nature reserve Infierno and the ancient Basilica of Candelaria - the largest sanctuary in honor of Our Lady on the islands

Homer

The island, with an area of ​​about 370 km2, is considered the only one in the Canaries where not even the slightest traces of volcanic activity have been recorded. Visitors to the island will be able to visit its capital San Sebastian de la Gomera with unique ancient architectural monuments, cross national park Garajonay and hear the famous “Homeric whistle”. Due to the rugged terrain of the island, this is how local shepherds talked to each other through gorges and abysses.

Hierro

Its area is about 280 km2. The island is considered the smallest among inhabited islands and is located in the westernmost part of the archipelago. Hierro is characterized by almost high-mountainous terrain. From a wide mountain plateau, located at an altitude of almost 1500 m above sea level, an almost vertical row of cliffs descends to the shore. A gentle and comfortable descent leads only to the Gulf of El Golfo.

Palm

Enough big Island with an area of ​​almost 700 km 2. Almost the entire area of ​​Palma is occupied by chains high volcanoes, interspersed with laurel and pine forests.

Gran Canaria

The island is the third largest in the archipelago with an area of ​​about 1600 km2. The second capital of the Canaries, the city, is located on it. The center of Gran Canaria is characterized mainly by a mountainous landscape, which is cut through by deep gorges stretching all the way to the coast. This is one of the popular centers of tourism in the Canary Islands: here guests of the island are provided with all the conditions for cycling and aquatic species sports, golf, exciting hiking

Scientists consider it the oldest of the Canary Islands (area about 1,700 km 2). There are the most beaches here, and the height of the mountains does not exceed 1000 m, which provides a relatively mild, warm and comfortable climate. Fuerteventura is very popular among lovers of secluded recreation and windsurfing.

The area of ​​the island reaches 850 km2. You should be careful when traveling here as volcanic eruptions in Lanzarote are quite common. As a local attraction, guides show tourists the volcanic cave Cueva de los Verdes.

How to get to the Canaries?

Direct flights have been established between the Canary Islands and Moscow due to the presence of Tenerife. The cost of the flight will be 450–500 USD, but you can choose more a budget option with a transfer in Barcelona or Madrid. Tickets from the capital of the Russian Federation to these cities will be cheaper - only 250–300 USD. After arrival, you need to transfer to an Iberia or Ryanair flight, thanks to which for only 70–90 USD you can get not only to the largest Canary Islands, but also to Lanzarote or Fuerteventura. There is also a ferry service within the archipelago.

Beaches of the Canaries

Most visitors to the Canary Islands come here to relax by the sea or enjoy water sports.

Beaches of Tenerife

Their “highlight” is the amazingly beautiful and soft golden sand, brought here especially from the Sahara or extracted from the ocean depths. Not far from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, tourists will find some of the most popular beaches of the Canary Islands: with fine light yellow sand and Playa de Tanagana with dark sand of volcanic origin.

Beach Playa de Martianez located near Puerto de la Cruz and impresses with original fountains, a giant lake filled with sea water, and many restaurants and bars.

Beach Los Cristianos is located in the port area and has convenient access to the water. Umbrellas and rattan sun loungers are provided to visitors for a fee.

Beaches Playa de Benijo And Playa de San Roque in the northern part of Tenerife will delight visitors with an almost perfect pebble surface. The El Médano area is a favorite place for windsurfers to relax.

Beaches of Gran Canaria

They amaze with the variety of landscapes: from flat strips of sand to real rock formations. The most popular beaches of the island are Maspalomas And. The latter stretches almost 3 km in length and is great for water skiing and jet skiing, as well as windsurfing, diving and sailing. With plenty of eateries serving local cuisine, it's possible to spend an entire day at the beach. What makes Maspalomas unique are the unique sand sculptures sculpted from the dunes by the elements of wind and water. In the south of the island near Las Palmas there is a narrow sandy strip of beach Las Canteras. It is securely fenced by a reef on the sea side, so it is completely safe for swimming.

Beaches of Fuerteventura

They are covered with fine white and golden sand. On the Jandia peninsula located as a quiet and uncrowded beach Kofete so lively Sotaverno. The beach looks original, where black volcanic sand and fine gravel are mixed.

Cuisine of the Canary Islands

The cuisine on the islands of the archipelago is truly distinctive thanks to the complementary influence of several culinary traditions: Spanish, Latin American (in particular Venezuelan), African and the cuisine of the indigenous Canary Guanche people. The local restaurants are a must try.

The Canary Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands located in the Atlantic Ocean. The history of the Canary Islands is very interesting and rich. It was here that Columbus made his last stop before discovering America. The island of La Gomera has become a window from Europe to New World, and the Canary Islands became widely known. Many states have fought for the archipelago for centuries, but the Canaries continue to remain under Spanish control.

Canary Islands on the map:

Finding the Canary Islands on the map is not difficult; they are located near the northwestern coast of Africa, Morocco and Western Sahara. Geographically, the archipelago includes a group of volcanic islands of Macaronesia (Cape Verde Islands, Azores, Madeira and Selvagenes).

What islands are part of the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands include 7 large inhabited islands and several small ones that have hardly been touched by civilization. Inhabited islands include:

1. Homer,
2. Fuerteventura,
3. Lanzarote,
4. Hierro
5. Palm.

The largest densely populated island with a developed tourist infrastructure is Tenerife. Here is the most high point Spain - Teide volcano, and this is where the Canary Islands begin.

Climate and weather in the Canary Islands

One of the main assets of the Canary Islands is its unique climate, moderately hot and dry. The water temperature does not drop below 20 °C throughout the year, and the sun shines most days. Due to their wonderful weather, the Canary Islands are often called the islands of eternal spring.

In general, the weather on the islands is warm and clear throughout the year, and the change of seasons is almost imperceptible. A big advantage of the Canary Islands is the lack of acclimatization even for those coming from the northern regions.

Nature of the Canary Islands

Thanks to their volcanic origin, the Canary Islands boast unique black volcanic beaches and a diverse flora and fauna. Here you can walk through tropical and pine forests, then find yourself on sand dunes and beaches with golden sand. By the way, 4 islands have been declared national parks in Spain, two of them are under UNESCO protection.

Holidays in the Canary Islands

Previously, it was believed that holidays in the Canary Islands were quite expensive and inaccessible. Today the number of vacationers is many times greater than the number local residents. This is a great alternative to vacationing in neighboring African countries in the winter.
The archipelago is great for beach holidays and holidays with children. For lovers active rest You won’t be bored either: diving, surfing, sea fishing, tandem paragliding and other sports are very developed in the Canaries.

Tours to the Canary Islands

A healthy climate and warm weather make the Canary Islands attractive to tourists at any time of the year. You can purchase a tour to Tenerife or another island from several tour operators, the average cost of a tour is from 800 euros/person for 7 nights. By the way, many hotels operate on the beloved all-inclusive system.

Yachting in the Canaries

Short distances between the islands, smooth trade winds and excellent weather create comfortable conditions for traveling on a yacht in the Canary Islands. The yachting infrastructure is improving every year, a large number of marinas with related services and yacht clubs. Many Northern European ships come to the Canary Islands for a warm winter.

Warm sea, unique beaches, beautiful bays – Canary Islands perfect place for traveling on a yacht from November to March. As part of a week-long yachting trip, it is possible to visit Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma or Gran Canaria. If you want to see all the islands, then such a trip will take two weeks. Start and finish are usually in Tenerife.

A pleasant bonus for yachting: storms and hurricanes are very rare here.
Check out ours or take, thanks to our own fleet, our prices will pleasantly surprise you.

New Year in the Canary Islands

We definitely recommend noting New Year in Tenerife. New Year holidays last 12 days. It all starts with a quiet family holiday of Catholic Christmas on December 25th. On January 1st, lively celebrations take place in city squares and promenades in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Puerto Santiago and Las Americas.

If you go to the town square and eat 12 grapes, each grape will bring good luck for the new year. Completes the series New Year's holidays Day of the Three Magi. Magnificent processions on horses and camels are accompanied by presenting gifts and sweets to all those present.

Canary Islands visa

The Canary Islands legally belong to Spain, which means that EU rules apply on their territory and you must obtain a Schengen visa to enter.

Although not everyone knows where the Canary Islands are, everyone knows about this wonderful place, which for many has become synonymous with luxury holidays. Many even consider them part of ancient Atlantis, which sank thousands of years ago.

Not even everyone who has visited them can show on the map where the Canary Islands are located and quickly find them. But despite this, everyone has heard about them and dreams of getting there. IN last years The popularity of holidays in the Canary Islands is only growing. Millions of people can vacation on the islands at the same time. The number of tourists every year exceeds the number of residents several times!

Climatic conditions

The Canaries consist of seven big islands and six small ones, each of which is considered a continent in miniature. The climate of each island is unique, but they are united by the fact that here you can sunbathe under the warm sun and swim in the ocean all year round. Therefore, the islands are recommended for those who want to have a summer vacation here.

origin of name

Many people mistakenly believe that the islands are named after canaries. However, research shows that everything was quite the opposite - it was the birds that were named after the islands. The name Canary comes from the Latin word translated as “dogs”. That is, the islands can be called Dog Islands. Even on the coat of arms of the Canaries there is an image of two dogs. According to the second version, the name comes from sea lions, which were previously called “sea dogs.” There may also be a connection with Ancient Egypt, where one of the gods had the head of a dog (Anubis). The local population considered dogs to be sacred animals.

For those who do not know where the Canary Islands are located on the map, it will be useful to learn about their location. Although the Canaries themselves are considered a territory, the coast of Spain is at least a thousand kilometers away. Much closer to the African continent.

Therefore, before deciding to visit Tunisia or Egypt, you should think about a holiday outside the Canary Islands.

The mistake of many is that they still believe that holidays in the Canary Islands are only available to people with very high earnings or to those who have been saving for such a holiday for several years. But you can relax without spending too much. Firstly, you can stay in a hotel with fewer stars, and secondly, you can always bargain in such hotels. Despite the number of stars, each hotel offers a high level of service. In general, when going to the Canary Islands, you can be sure that you will definitely find a hotel that suits your budget. For example, in a hotel with an average pricing policy a vacation will cost about 50-100 euros per day. It is important to note that this cost may even include car rental. But you can easily find a hotel for 40 euros per day, although you will have to eat in inexpensive establishments, and you will have to stay in an equally inexpensive hotel. Meanwhile, if you analyze the costs of the Canaries, it turns out that a similar vacation in neighboring Tunisia, Morocco or Egypt will not become much cheaper. Of course, at little expense you will have to move around the island (or between islands) by.

public transport

Transport in the Canaries

You can also move around on foot within one island. This will especially appeal to lovers of hiking. There are also bus services between cities within the same island, the cost of which is affordable for everyone.

However, we should not forget that the Canaries are an archipelago of several islands, and without visiting at least a few of them, a vacation cannot be considered complete. Of course, some tourists may not go beyond the hotel, but most vacationers visit neighboring islands. If you rent a car, you can use it not only to travel around one island, but also, by crossing on a ferry, to get acquainted with the sights neighboring islands

Many vacationers buy tickets for hydrofoil boats, which allow them to move between islands much faster and admire the beauty of each island from a distance. Tourists often want to quickly move from one extreme island of the archipelago to another, which is approximately a thousand kilometers. There are many flights for this.

Each city has its own taxi service. For a kilometer of movement around the city you will have to pay approximately 1 euro. When leaving the city you will have to pay 1.5-2 euros. The tariff also increases when traveling at night.

Attractions and entertainment in the Canary Islands

Tenerife is the most popular island among tourists from Russia. It is at the airport of this island that a direct flight from Moscow lands, so when going to Tenerife, you need to be prepared to hear your native language on the beach, in a restaurant or hotel. It is precisely because Russian tourists do not always like to travel between islands that they stop here.

Throughout February, Tenerife hosts a grand festival that can easily compete with the world-famous festival in Rio de Janeiro.

The second most popular island among Russian holidaymakers is Gran Canaria. Here is everything that interests a vacationer:

• excursions,
• the shops,
• entertainment,
• restaurants,
• water parks,
• beaches for every taste.

It is the largest island in terms of population, and the large number of tourists is due to its unique climatic conditions, which are considered the best among all the islands. The climatic situation on the island favors beach holiday throughout the year.

Those who want to relax alone with nature simply must go to the island of La Gomera. The absence of industrial enterprises has had a beneficial effect on the nature of Hierro Island. Night walks under the moon along the promenade on the island of Lanzarote are mesmerizing. Fuertenventura is a favorite island for those who like to sunbathe on the beach or go surfing. It is here that international competitions in surfing, windsurfing, kiting and other sea sports are held in mid-summer. In general, each of the islands is able to provide its guests with the most intense program with the widest selection of entertainment.

Kitchen

Although not everyone knows where the Canary Islands are on the world map, many have heard about the unsurpassed cuisine of the islands from their friends who have visited here. For example, in Tenerife you can taste Canarian jacket potatoes. At first glance, it may seem that there is nothing special about this dish, but the added sauces fill it with an unusual taste. The potatoes themselves are grown in high mountain areas and grow at an altitude of no less than 900 meters! Don't forget about fish dishes and seafood. Many restaurants have large aquariums in which each tourist can choose a “victim” for cooking.

Vacation with children

Many holidaymakers come to the Canary Islands with children. To choose a vacation spot, you need to worry about the absence of noisy discos, cafes, and markets near the hotel. The best option for families with children is the island of Fuerteventura, where there are no noisy establishments.

Canaries and safety

Of course, any inattentive tourist can suffer from petty scammers. These are mainly illegal migrants who arrived here from the neighboring African continent. To avoid theft, you should not carry cash with you, but pay with electronic cards or traveler's checks. Some tourists even recommend keeping their savings on more than one plastic card. But to pay for goods at markets or to pay a taxi driver, you should still have some cash with you. In general, petty theft and hooliganism are quite rare phenomena.

Gifts and souvenirs

It is rare that a tourist goes to the Canary Islands to shop for various goods. In any city there are dozens of shops where you can buy everything you need, but the bulk of vacationers come here specifically for a beach holiday.

Of course, you should worry about buying gifts for yourself and your loved ones. These may be small. The main thing is not to rush to buy them on the first day in the stores closest to the hotel, since on the island you can find similar things at a price that will be much lower.

The Canary Islands are an ideal destination for tourists of all ages. Anyone who can afford a holiday in Egypt, Tunisia or Turkey can just as easily go to the Canary Islands. Only a holiday in the Canaries will be much more interesting than a trip to boring resorts.

Useful information for tourists about the Canaries, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of the Canaries, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions of the Canaries.

Geography of the Canaries

The Canary Islands (in Spanish Islas Canarias) are washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Together with the islands of Madeira and the Azores to the north and the Cape Verde Islands to the south, they form what is commonly called "Macronesia".

The archipelago consists of seven large inhabited islands and several small ones. In the center is the largest island - Tenerife. To the west is La Gomera, Hierro and Palma. The island of Gran Canaria is located east of Tenerife. This is the third largest island of the archipelago. Further east are Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.

The Canary Islands are of volcanic origin.

State

Language

Official language: Spanish

Religion

Residents of the Canary Islands profess Catholicism.

Currency

International name: EUR

Canary map

Popular attractions

Tourism in the Canaries

Popular hotels

Excursions and attractions in the Canaries

The Canary Islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwestern coast of Africa. This volcanic archipelago is an autonomous province of Spain. The Canary Islands are a stunning picturesque resort with magnificent natural landscapes, gorgeous beaches and a variety of different attractions.

The largest and most popular island of the archipelago is Tenerife. Its capital (and one of the two capitals of the province of the Canary Islands), Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is famous for its famous sandy Teresitas beach, which is one of best beaches on the archipelago. The sand for this beach was specially brought from the Sahara. The symbol of the city and an important landmark of the entire Canary Islands is considered a masterpiece of modern architecture - the Auditorio de Tenerife concert hall. Other important cultural attractions of Santa Cruz are the Plaza de España, the Museum of Nature and Man, the Masonic Temple of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The city of San Cristobal de La Laguna and its Cathedral. And, of course, exploring Tenerife would not be complete without visiting the magnificent National Nature Reserve Teide and the famous Exotic Park.

The picturesque island of Gran Canaria impresses with its natural landscapes and excellent beaches. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital of the island (and the second capital of the Canary Islands) and one of the largest ports in the Atlantic Ocean. The island is rich in various cultural and natural monuments. Some of the most interesting places in Las Palmas include the Cathedral, Casa Columbus, Doramas Park, Canario Museum, Open Air Museum and Gallery of Contemporary Art. In the town of Galdar, it is worth visiting the Archaeological Museum and Cueva Pintada Park with its famous caves, the Church of Santiago de los Caballeros and the Square of St. James. Also interesting are natural attractions such as the Gran Canaria National Park, Botanical Garden Jardín Canario and Tamadaba National Park.

The island of Lanzarote is also popular among tourists. Its most interesting attraction is the Timanfaya National Park and its magnificent underground caves Cueva de los Verdos. A business card The islands of Fuerteventura have wonderful sandy beaches - the best in the Canary Islands. The island is also very popular among windsurfers.

Canary cuisine

Hotels in the Canary Islands (Spain) offer, first of all, first-class service and a developed infrastructure for recreation and entertainment. This resort is famous for its attractions and best hotels.

Tourism here began to develop not so long ago (in the early 90s), using advanced technologies. That is why all hotels in the Canary Islands are particularly comfortable, have a convenient approach to the sea, a traditionally high level of service, as well as a relatively “fresh” number of rooms.

The choice of accommodation in the Canary Islands is varied, ranging from apartment hotels with kitchenettes to hotels. Most hotels in the Canaries are four-star and five-star. Regardless of the level of the hotel - two-star (except for the cheapest), three-star, four- or five-star - all rooms have air conditioning, satellite TV and safes.

Food in most hotels in the Canary Islands is provided in the form of a buffet with an extensive menu. At the same time, breakfast is often included in the room price, and lunch and dinner are paid additionally, or all food is free, and only drinks are paid for.

Another feature of the Canary Islands is that almost all the beaches are located on the territory of hotels and are municipal property, which is important for vacationers.

When choosing a place to stay, it is worth remembering that there are several types of accommodation in the Canaries, including: family hotel (hostal) - one of the cheapest options for overnight accommodation, which is similar to a hostel, but is mainly managed by only one family, creating an atmosphere of home comfort ; villa - a private house, equipped with everything necessary for comfortable rest; aparthotel - consists of apartments that include one or more rooms, as well as a kitchen. An excellent option for spending the night in the Canary Islands are camping sites, which come in three types and vary in level of comfort, but this almost affects the cost of accommodation.

Canary Islands in Spain located 100 kilometers from the northwestern coast of the African continent (Morocco), include 7 large islands and six small ones. The origin of the archipelago is volcanic.

The Canaries are an autonomous entity within Spain. They are administratively divided into two provinces with their own capitals, Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which alternate in this role every 4 years.

Unique geographical position The Canary Islands, where the sultry air of the African Sahara is softened by the oceanic environment, creates a humid tropical climate with annual temperature fluctuations of 10-30 C, allowing you to enjoy the warm ocean and sun all year round. The length of the beach strip on all the islands is about one and a half thousand kilometers, and all beaches are publicly accessible and free. The climate varies significantly depending on the location of each island: the driest and hottest are - southern islands The Canary archipelago, which is more humid with lush tropical vegetation, is located to the north.

The first mentions of the Canary Islands date back to antiquity. The indigenous population is tribes of white-skinned people - Guanches. Although the Canaries were first declared Spanish territory in 1404, the final conquest took place at the end of the century, as a result of war.

Holidays in Spain are often associated with the Canary Islands, of which the five largest and most exotic are of greatest tourist interest.

1. Tenerife Island

Tenerife is the central and largest island of the Canary archipelago, part of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Its population is close to 900 thousand.

The main feature of Tenerife is its very even, comfortable climate with minimal daily and seasonal temperature changes (no more than 5 degrees). This, combined with the purest warm (20 degrees) ocean water and an abundance of beautiful sandy beaches attracts a huge number of tourists from all over the world, allowing you to swim all year round. 8 beaches of the island are marked with the Blue Flag as the cleanest. The main entertainment there is diving and surfing.

Rising above the island of Tenerife is Teide, a snow-capped dormant volcano located in the eponymous national park with a unique volcanic landscape. This is the highest point in Spain, recognized as the main natural attraction of the island. The name Tenerife (White) was given to the island by the Spanish conquistadors, possibly referring to the white peak of Teide.

The main natural attractions of Tenerife:

• The “lunar landscape” in the eastern part is an amazing landscape formed by the movement of lava.

• Tropical oasis - Eagle Park in the south.
• Loro Parque is a complex that includes a zoo, an aquarium and a botanical garden.
• Jungle Park in Las Aguilas.

The indigenous people also left their legacy - six step pyramids skillfully built from stone in the city of Guimar.

Culturally interesting in Tenerife are:

• the cities of Orotava and San Cristobal de la Laguna, rich in antiquities, founded by the Guanche people - historical and cultural heritage Spain;
• the ancient Canarian village of Masca;

• Opera Auditorio de Tenerife;

• an annual carnival that is not inferior to the brightness of the Brazilian one.

2. Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is the second most visited and third largest Canary island, located in the center of the archipelago. Its population is slightly smaller than Tenerife. Its shape resembles a mountain with a 50-kilometer circle at the base. From the centrally located Pico de Las Nieves (2000 m), an extinct volcano, gorges descend to the ocean, forming rugged terrain with rich vegetation and fauna.

The mountain range divides the island into two parts: the northern – cooler, and the southern – dry and warm. The climate is comfortable all year round: the temperature does not drop below +19 C, in summer it does not exceed +30 C, the water rarely cools down to +17 C, which allows you to relax here in any season. Mostly beaches (over 50) are located in the southern part of the island. The most famous beaches in Gran Canaria are Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas and San Agustin.

The usual purpose of visiting Gran Canaria is to relax on the beautiful beaches and swim in the warm ocean. Holidays here are more relaxing than in Tenerife. Interesting places too much.

What to see on the island of Gran Canaria

Las Palmas – The largest city Gran Canaria, the second capital of the archipelago. The 500-year history of the city has left many attractions in it: the Columbus Museum, the Cathedral, St. Anne's Square, the bishop's house, the Museum of the Canary Islands.

Also of historical interest are the ancient city of Telde, the high mountain village of Artenare, and the Painted Cave in Galdar.

While holidaying on this Canary island, you can visit interesting excursions to natural national parks:

• Nublo is in the center of the island.

• Sand dunes of Maspalomas.

• Tamadaba Nature Reserve on the slopes of Aden Verde.
• Exotic Park Palmitos.

As well as unique theme parks: cacti, crocodiles, Botanical Garden, exotic Palmitos Park.

3. Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is the island of the archipelago closest to the African continent. It has the second largest area and the lowest population density (about 75 thousand people). This is the oldest Canary island, it appeared as a result of volcanic activity about 20 million years ago.

The name of the island was based on the strong winds that constantly blow across the crescent-shaped area of ​​land. A comfortable climate in all seasons, with interseasonal temperature fluctuations of 17 - 27 C, allows you to relax in this corner of Spain all year round. Previously, it was covered with forests, which Spanish shipbuilders gradually cut down.

In the pre-colonial period, the territory was inhabited by the Mahorer tribe. In the 15th century it began to belong to Spain.

The central part of Fuerteventura is almost uninhabited. It is surrounded by more than 150 of the most beautiful beaches in the Atlantic, stretching over 300 km. Most of the beaches are covered with pure white sand, some with volcanic black sand. The tourist infrastructure is not very developed. Holidays here are preferred by lovers of solitude and surfing, which is favored by the constant wind.

Sights of the island of Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is part of the province of Las Palmas, its capital is Puerto del Rosario. Tourists here will be interested in such attractions as the Alcohida Eco-Museum, the Museum of the writer Miguel de Unvmuno, the Juan Ismael Art Center, and an open-air sculpture park. Rich in historical and architectural monuments Betancuria is a city with more than 600 years of history.

Of the natural attractions of the island, the following are especially interesting: the Lobos Nature Reserve; dunes natural park Corralejo; geological massif of Montaña de Tindaya.

4. Lanzarote Island

Lanzarote ranks fourth in area among the other Canary Islands. Located in the northeastern part of the archipelago, 150 km from the African coast. Its population exceeds 140 thousand people. The island is named after the Genoese navigator Lanzerotto Malocello, who visited it and charted it in 1312. The indigenous population before the Spanish conquest was the Makhos tribe, which had Berber roots.

Due to ongoing volcanic activity and a “lunar landscape” with more than 300 craters of varying sizes, beautiful Lanzarote is also called “fire” or “island of fire-breathing mountains”. A third of its territory is covered with volcanic lava, basalt and ash, and is completely devoid of life. This explains the peculiarity of local agriculture - vineyards grown in large stone-framed depressions.

By decision of UNESCO, Lanzarote was declared a biosphere reserve, where multi-storey construction that does not correspond to the established traditional style is prohibited.

The climate of Lanzarote is even, colder than on other islands of the archipelago: the average January temperature is +13.9 C, summer - +26 C. Precipitation is rare.

Arrecife is the island's capital, commercial, administrative center and port. The historical center is the city of Teguise, founded by the Normans.

Excursions in Lanzarote

You can appreciate the beauty of the frozen volcanoes on the island by visiting: Timanfaya National Park; El Golfo National Reserve – unique lake black sand beach in the crater of a volcano; Cave de los Verdes formed by lava.

Among the attractions of Lanzarote, it is worth seeing: the Castillo de San Jose castle, built in the 18th century for its protection; the 16th-century Castillo de San Gabriel castle located on a small island; Bodega Wine Museum and Landowner Museum.

5. La Gomera Island

A very small Canary Island southwest of Tenerife (its area is 5 times smaller than its neighbor). The population of La Gomera is about 20 thousand people. The tourism infrastructure is not very developed, but this is not a priority area of ​​development. The main thing on La Gomera is the rich, unique vegetation that has preserved many pre-glacial relict species. This feature is explained by the complex multi-stage relief and the long-term (about 2 million years) cessation of volcanic activity. High mountains and deep gorges, protecting the island from the winds, retain moisture and create a greenhouse effect. The constant light fog favors the lush growth of tropical vegetation: more than 450 species grow here. The air temperature all year round is between 21-28 C, water 18-23 C. The southern part of La Gomera is windier and drier.

The etymology of the name is associated with the tribe of African origin Ghomarat, which inhabited it before the conquest by Spain. An unusual feature of the island is the Silbo whistling language, which allows communication over long distances separating hard-to-reach gorges.

Sights of the island of La Gomera

The capital is San Sebastian de La Gomera. In that ancient city on the ocean shore there is the Count's Tower, built by the Spaniards in the 15th century, and the Church of Iglesia de Asuncion. The island is associated with the name of Christopher Klumba, who visited it several times, as evidenced by the Columbus House Museum and the well from which he took water for his voyage.

The main attraction of the island is Garajonay, a national park with UNESCO World Heritage status. Occupying a tenth of the island, the forest represents the relict vegetation of the pre-glacial Mediterranean, inhabited by a rich endemic fauna.

In the southwest is the Valle Gran Rey valley, whose green terraces and picturesque gorges can be seen from observation deck Palmarejo.

On the northern shore, Los Organos is impressive - a natural resemblance to an organ with 80-meter basalt columns.

The beaches of La Gomera are small, with black volcanic sand or pebbles. This is very beautiful island, and your vacation here will undoubtedly be unforgettable!

The Canary Islands are a unique paradise in the Atlantic. In any season, it guarantees a comfortable, varied and educational holiday surrounded by incredible and varied landscapes.