The Canary Islands
The Realm of Perpetual Spring
Situated much closer to Africa than the Spanish mainland, the Canary Islands, though part of Spain, rest in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 1,350 kilometers south of the Iberian Peninsula. Morocco shares a border with them, while Fuerteventura lies just 95 kilometers to the east. Embracing a delightful climate year-round, the islands have earned the moniker "The Land of Eternal Spring." Even in winter, temperatures seldom dip below 18°C, while summer sees them soar beyond 24°C.
Thanks to the influence of the Gulf Stream and Trade Winds, the Canary Islands bask in a pleasant subtropical climate, rendering them an ideal year-round destination for travelers. Anticipate copious sunshine, infrequent rainfall, and a perpetual whirl of tourist endeavors. Understandably, these shores magnetize approximately 11 million international visitors annually!
The archipelago is composed of five primary holiday islands - La Palma, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote - coupled with two smaller, unspoiled islands, Hierro and Gomera. These islands mark the visible crests of an extensive volcanic mountain range submerged beneath the Atlantic Ocean. Their extraordinary natural allure is exemplified by the presence of four out of Spain's seven major national nature reserves within their boundaries.
At the heart of the archipelago, Tenerife and Gran Canaria emerge as the liveliest tourist havens. They offer vibrant beachfronts, bustling nightlife, and ceaseless revelry. However, for those willing to stray from the well-trodden paths of package holidays, a retreat into the islands' awe-inspiring natural panoramas, far removed from the hustle and bustle, awaits.
The Canary Islands cater to a diverse spectrum of holiday predilections. Whether your preference leans toward lively oceanfronts bedecked with soaring hotels and boundless amusement, or quieter enclaves to savor the islands' natural marvels, this haven accommodates it all. The islands proffer an amalgamation of experiences, encompassing gay bars, all-night clubs, frothy celebrations, as well as familiar establishments such as fish and chip shops.
For nature aficionados and aficionados of aquatic pursuits, the Canary Islands stand as a genuine paradise. The locale boasts captivating endemic flora and fauna, while its coastal waters are renowned for providing some of the planet's finest angling prospects. A plethora of species including sharks, tuna, and marlin populate these waters. Additionally, many tourists seek glimpses of bottle-nosed dolphins and pilot whales, frequently frolicking around the islands.