As awesome as a staycation here in the UK can be, in the summer, you can’t really rely on the weather, unless you’re relying on it being unseasonably windy and wet.
I’ve lost count of the number of beach holidays in the UK I’ve been on over the years, only to find myself stuck inside playing scrabble because it was so grey, wet, and miserable.
When you want a summer holiday in the sunshine, booking a holiday abroad is usually the safest bet, which is what I’m going to be talking to you about today. Specifically, I’ll be talking to you about booking a holiday to the Canary Islands.
The Canaries have been a firm favourite for European holidaymakers for a number of decades now, and other than inflation increasing the cost of everything to a much higher rate, not a lot has changed. The islands remain as beautiful now as they were decades ago.
If you’re thinking of a summer holiday in the sun, here are se7en of the most beautiful places to visit in the Canaries.
Teide National Park, Tenerife
To get the ball rolling today I have Teide National Park.
Teide National Park is located in Tenerife. Now, before we go any further, even though I’m talking about the Canaries with you today, Tenerife will feature prominently on my list, simply because it’s home to so many beautiful places. So, don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Right, back on topic, Teide National Park’s star attraction is Teide – the third largest volcano on the planet.
Teide National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you know right away that it is something very special. Not to mention, it’s the only place I visited so far that in the right conditions could pass for Mordor.
The park itself is based around the volcano, so don’t expect lush green forests, trees, and glacial lakes. What you can expect is a stunning volcanic mountain and some of the most spectacular views of Tenerife you could imagine.
The West Coast Road, Gran Canaria
Second on the list today is Gran Canaria’s West Coast Road.
For the petrol heads amongst you, this is a must-visit destination, as it is fondly known as the Canary Island’s answer to Route-66.
The West Coast Road is one of the most spectacular driving roads on the planet, featuring twists and turns, sea views, rare species of animal, trees, rocks, and panoramic views that put Scotland’s North Coast 500 (which is also spectacular) to shame.
Famara Beach, Lanzarote
Lanzarote is one of the Canary Island’s forgotten gems.
Years ago, it was a hit with holidaymakers, but gradually it started to dwindle in terms of popularity, and I can’t for the life of me figure out why that is.
Famara Beach is, without question, one of the Canary Island’s most stunning locations and is affectionately called a European Hawaii by those that visit.
Famara Beach is awesome if you want to enjoy a chilled and laidback vibe as the way of life here is much slower than most other places.
The beach is stunning, the sea is warm and inviting, and it is also the perfect destination to enjoy some surfing with the surfer dudes and dudettes. If surfing isn’t your thing, the Atlantic wind also provides perfect conditions for hang gliding.
Anaga Mountains, Tenerife
Back to Tenerife, this time I’m going to be figuratively transporting you to the majestic Anaga Mountains.
Tenerife’s Anaga Mountain range is a simply stunning, unspoiled, natural beauty spot that has to be seen to be truly appreciated as words won’t do it justice.
Sadly, right now, words are all I have so I’ll at least make an effort to do this gorgeous mountain range justice.
The Anaga Mountains are ideal for those of you who like the great outdoors and want to relax in peaceful, tranquil, and picturesque surroundings. With ravines, green forests, jagged mountainsides, and countless species of wildlife, as soon as you set foot in the place, you’ll wish you’d visited sooner.
Santa Cruz, Tenerife
The capital of Tenerife, Santa Cruz is the dream holiday destination for those of you who enjoy blue skies, hot sunshine, golden sandy beaches, and vibrant and bustling city living.
Santa Cruz is a gorgeous city which is home to a wide variety of landmarks, including the Auditoria de Tenerife, which is a beautiful opera house offering stunning views out to sea, designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava.
Santa Cruz is very much a city of culture, as you will also find countless museums, art galleries, and cathedrals.
Don’t forget to grab some seafood, washed down with a chilled glass of white as the sun sets on yet another beautiful day.
La Laguna, Tenerife
Located in Northern Tenerife, La Laguna is another amazing city you simply must visit if you find yourself in the canaries.
La Laguna is very much a place of opulence as it is filled with palaces, monuments, cathedrals, and authentic buildings which span three different eras, including: Belle Epoque, Renaissance, and gothic – all of which are evident in the architecture and designs of the buildings.
Just to add to the experience, La Laguna also offers breath taking sea views of attractive haciendas that will make any Tenerife day out that little bit more enjoyable.
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Finally, allow me to present to you, the stunning Las Palmas.
Situated in Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, this gorgeous seaside town enjoys blue skies and hot sunshine for the vast majority of the year.
It is also drenched in history as its legacy from the colonial past of Spain can be traced way back to the 15th century. In actual fact, not a lot has changed as it looks just as beautiful now as it did back then.
Las Palmas is the capital city of Gran Canaria and is a major destination for cruise ships so the city can get a little busy at peak times, though some would argue that this adds to the charm as people from different cultures from all corners of the globe visit here on their holidays.
As well as beautiful restaurants, cafes, and bars, you’ll find plenty of shops, museums, art galleries, and even botanical gardens to keep you entertained for days.
I for one can’t wait for my next visit to the Canaries. I hope we’ll meet there, on a sunny beach.
Until then, stay safe, stay curious and don’t stop wandering!
Photo sources: Gran Canaria, Lanzarote 1, Anaga Mountains, La Laguna, Las Palmas
