We all know what it’s like when the nights start to draw in and the weather takes a distinct turn for the worse – it’s depressing and usually heralds the start of months of cold and dreary weather. My solution to stave off depression is to book a villa holiday
This year I’m considering the Canary Islands, but I’m finding it tough to choose between them. If you’re having a similar problem, check out my brief guide to four of the most popular isles in the group.
What I think makes Tenerife a top choice – especially for families – is the exciting theme and animal parks that are (mostly) centred on its south coast resorts. Places like Siam Park, Loro Parque and Aqualand Costa Adeje are perfect if you’re looking for fun-filled and action-packed days in the sunshine, not to mention that the beaches in this part of the island are a beautiful spot to have a Canary Islands holiday.
Personally, I love being active and trying new things while I’m on holiday – and if I’ve travelled to somewhere with good weather I like to take benefit of the seaside. Fuerteventura is a great choice if you’re like me, as there are lots of water sports centres on the island where you can try everything from snorkelling and kite surfing to kayaking and surfing.
Actually, there’s just as much to do on land here as there is in the water, with things like quad biking, golf , cycling, hiking and horse riding also available. I think it’d be a lot of fun to have a go at Canary bowling, too – it’s a traditional throwing game similar to bowls that’s played by locals all over the island.
Parts of this archipelago, marooned out in the Atlantic Ocean, are better known to Europeans escaping mid-winter blues than they are to Spaniards. At the height of the season, tourists outnumber local people by five to one. They are attracted by a remarkably constant climate: the average temperature of 17°C (63°F) in winter increases to 24°C (75°F) in summer, with a cooling offshore breeze.
The fifth largest island is full of tobacco plantations and is known for its hand rolled cigars. The volcanic ocean island is a great place to take your holidays and it is not as crowed Lanzarote as some of the other islands. Shop for local handcrafted gifts and have a bite at the local pub. La Palma has English speaking travel guides who can help you plan your free time.
If you love wine you will not be disappointed as La Gomera has some of the best reds and whites in the world. Take a food tour of the island and sample local tapas. Pack a picnic lunch and hike to Garajonay or go horseback riding. Take a boat ride to the Organ Pipes or rent a bike a pedal through the La Gomera forests.
Whilst the beaches are spectacular and will be great for darkening your tan, also think food, fiestas, golf and impressive culture when you think of Gran Canaria.
Did you know that Fuerteventura sits on the same latitude as Florida and Mexico? This basically implies that the weather is breath-takingly similar, and can be reached in only a third of time. Regarded as the oldest of the Canary Islands, it’s geographical location just 60 miles off the coast of Morocco, implies that for thousands of years the sand from the Sahara desert has been deposited on its beaches – all 150 of them!
There are other activities in Gran Canaria that you can try your hand at but as it’s known mostly for being home to the best beaches in the Canaries, it’s a must see if you would like to work on that all-important tan.
Fuerteventura is for the disco queens or kings and late night party person!
Like Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura is well known for its beaches as there are 150 of them! Alongside that, the nightlife here is second to none. From quirky seaside carnivals so some top class night clubs, there is so much that you can enjoy.
All the bars and restaurants here cater for the holiday-makers that are looking to stay out that little bit later so a great spot to visit if that’s what you’re looking for.