What you need to know about holidays in the Canary Islands? Open left menu Canary Islands Canary Islands what country.

The Canary Islands are washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, which have become a fashionable vacation for millions of tourists from all over the world.

1. Tenerife
2. Gran Canaria
3. Fuerteventura
4. Lanzarote
5. La Palma
6. La Gomera
7. Hierro

Tenerife and Gran Canaria are especially loved by Russian tourists..

Together with 6 other small islands (Allegranza, Graciosa, Lobos, Montagna Clara, Roque del Oeste and Roque del Este), the Canary Islands stretch for 450 km along the coast of Morocco. Geographically, the 13 Canary or otherwise “dog” islands are located on the African continent, although they belong to the European country of Spain. Only 96 km separates the island of Fuerteventura from the coast of Morocco.

Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest and most populous island in the center of the Canary archipelago with an area of ​​2057 km². The island has long been on a par with the most privileged and popular resorts in the world.

The unique natural and climatic features of Tenerife gave it title "Island of Eternal Spring". Net tourist routes, running along coastline with extensive open beaches of black and golden sand, steep and rocky areas forming small bays and grottoes, allows the traveler to see the wonderfully beautiful specially created unique parks and natural areas, as well as visit the large resort centers of the island and picturesque villages.

The southern part of Tenerife is protected from the cold trade winds blowing from the northeast by the high mountain range, thanks to which the south is bathed in sun all year round. The beneficial and surprisingly warm microclimate determined the development of resort tourism.

Such famous resort towns as Playa de Las Americas, Playa de Los Cristianos, Playa de Fanabe, El Medano and Playa Paraiso offer a wide selection of hotel services, a high level of comfort and a lot of water activities.

The north of Tenerife has a more humid climate, which contributes to the lush growth of subtropical vegetation and the fertility of the valleys. Most Tenerife's first resort and main city Valle Oratava – Puerto de la Crus has long been considered a recognized center of international tourism.

Those who are lucky enough to travel to this island should definitely visit specialized parks that contain interesting exotic representatives of flora and fauna.

• Loro Park in Puerto de la Cruz,
• Siam Park in the south of the island,
• Las Aguilas del Teide,
• Tenerife Zoo and Cactus Park in the vicinity of Arona,
• Octopus water park 2 km from Playa de Las Americas,
• The astronomical observatory in the capital of the island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and much more can diversify the beach holiday of vacationers, adding bright and memorable moments to memory and electronic media.

An overview of the most popular resorts in Tenerife: Puerto de la Cruz, where we talk about the history of the resorts, hotels and beaches, entertainment and shopping.

Fuerteventura

The second largest island of the Canary archipelago with an area of ​​1660 km² is the most unusual of all the Canary Islands.


The Harmattan wind, bringing the breath of the Sahara Desert here, has created unique landscapes reminiscent of Africa. But there is no African heat here, and the climate is even more comfortable than in Tenerife.

Many Russian tourists began to prefer this island because of its longest sandy beaches of all the Canary Islands, the width of which in some places exceeds 1 km. The Atlantic Ocean is special here - its waters are shallow, with crystal clear turquoise water.

The diverse underwater world attracts diving and spearfishing enthusiasts. In the strait that separates Africa from the Canary Islands, fishermen never leave empty-handed - here you can catch sardines, tuna and even swordfish.

The unabated wind and constant waves made the island is an ideal place for windsurfing and on its territory the World Cup stages in this sport are held.

The island's capital, Puerto del Rosario, is not attractive to tourists due to the lack of attractions and interesting amusement parks.

Tourists choose the main resort centers for their holidays - the Jandia Peninsula and Corralejo. Also from the small village of Morro Jable, located in the south, you can take a boat to the shores of the island of Gran Canaria, and in the north of the island you can go to Lanzarote or take a fascinating excursion to the volcanic island of Lobos.

The third largest island with an area of ​​1560.1 km² and the second most populous island is located in the heart of the Canary archipelago. Only 60 miles separate the island from the coast of Africa.


Sunny days throughout the year, a mild climate, warm gentle waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the unique natural landscape of the island of volcanic origin, rising from the ocean, explain the unique charm of the island and make it possible to compare it with the continent in miniature.


Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria) - the capital of the island, with almost endless streets stretching along the ocean, is surprisingly harmoniously woven into the surrounding landscape.

The southern part of the island is characterized by excellent beaches with magnificent golden sand in Playa del Ingles (Playa del Ingles - from Spanish “beach of the English”) and dunes, oases in Maspalomas (Maspalomas). Playa de San Augustin (San Augustin), located east of Playa del Inglés, together with Maspalomas, forms the largest tourist center on the Spanish island.

The distance from San Agustin to the capital is 40 km, to Gran Canaria Airport – 20 km.

The distance from Playa del Inglés to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is 55 km, to the airport – 30 km, from Maspalomas to the capital of the island – 60 km, to the airport – 36 km.

Public transport on the island is provided by two bus companies, one of which operates in the south of the island, the second in the north.

The capital has the main bus terminal, from where buses regularly run to all tourist centers, including Puerto Rico and Palatavaca.

Lanzarote

The fourth largest island of the Canary archipelago with an area of ​​795 km² called the "island of volcanoes".


A third of the island today, after eruptions that lasted 6 years, remains covered with lifeless ash and basalt, which is not conducive to agriculture and the cultivation of many crops.

The busiest tourist area is in the Tias area, where visitors to the island are struck by the striking contrast between the black volcanic rocks scattered in abundance throughout the island and the light sand.

The island of Lanzarote is simply made for relaxation- endless sun, silence, fresh sea breeze and the whisper of the ocean - all this attracts tourists seeking solitude and peace.

It is definitely worth visiting the capital of the island – Arrecife, which is a shopping and administrative center island, and its streets breathe centuries of history and reflect the unique maritime character of all of Lanzarote.

Tourists also flock to one of the the greenest places on the island - the Valley of a Thousand Palms, where unique fire palms and unusual tropical plants grow.

Do you want to try wines made from grapes growing on fields with solidified lava and other Canarian cuisine? Then you.

In this case, don’t hesitate, the holiday season is open.

We will help you find a resort in Spain that meets your requirements.

La Palma

The fifth largest island of the Canary archipelago with an area of ​​795 km² is rightly called isla bonita ( beautiful island).


The island was declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2002.. It is also called isla verde (green island), due to huge territory, covered with laurel and pine forests.

The island was formed 2 million years ago during the eruption of an underwater volcano. In the south of the island, the tourism sector is poorly developed, as several volcanoes remain active, which does not attract hotel business owners to build hotels and equip pristine beaches.


However, tourists can be advised to relax in a small nice resort - Puerto Naos with the longest beach on the island, covered with black sand.

It is noteworthy that this particular beach has proudly carried the blue flag of one of the cleanest beaches in Spain for many years.

Along the beach there is a chain of numerous shops, restaurants and cafes, where you should definitely try Canarian cuisine and young wines.

For family vacation The picturesque sandy beach of Charco Verde is ideal, located 2 km south of Puerto Naos.

Attractions La Palma

A trip to the capital of the island, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is recommended for fans of a rich excursion program.

Plaza de España, Avenida Marítima embankment, Constitution Square, 16th-century town hall. (Aiantamiento), Dali Street, the Salazar Palace of the 17th century, the Church of the Holy Light of the 16th century, the House of Tobacco and many other attractions of the capital can satisfy lovers of exciting history and architectural monuments of the Middle Ages.

La Gomera

One of the most beautiful islands of the Canary archipelago With an area of ​​369.76 km², it is the sixth largest Canary Island.


You can get to the island with the unique vegetation of Monteverde - laurel forests by ferries departing to La Gomera from Tenerife from the port of Los Cristianos.
Travel time varies from 35 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes.

The cost also ranges from 21 to 30 €. This discrepancy in time and cost is explained by the types of ferries and their speed.

In addition, the island has direct air connections with the islands of Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Tourism on the island is not as developed as on other popular islands of the Canary archipelago. The bulk of tourists are represented by German citizens vacationing in Valle Gran Rey (“Valley of the Great King”), which is resort complex from coastal villages:

• Vueltas,
• La Puntilla,
• La Playa,
• La Galera.

The Spanish land has given the world the most extraordinary creative people, and among them great architect - Antonio Gaudi.

This man left behind priceless cultural creations. Created by him - business card Barcelona.

The last one The charming village was named Montmartre due to its many expensive boutiques and restaurants.- the name of one of the districts of Paris. Russian tourists prefer to come to the island on a one-day excursion, which starts from the capital of the island - San Sebastian de la Gomera.
A city with only 9 thousand. residents rich in attractions:

• This is Plaza de las Americas
• Church of Virgen de Asuncion, where, according to legend, Christopher Columbus prayed before continuing his sea voyage,
• Gothic tower of Torre del Conde,
• Historical fortress of Christopher Columbus, etc.
• After visiting the capital, tourists go to the surroundings of the island, where there is pristine nature with gorges, mountain peaks and the endless laurel forests will take your breath away.

With its 450 species of rare trees and plants, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1986.
Guides take travelers to Laurisilva, an ancient laurel forest where trees reach 20 meters in height.

Beautiful photos can be taken from the Mirador de Agando observation deck, near which there is a children's playground and a good restaurant.

Waiting for tourists during the meal traditional show silbo gomero ("Homer whistle"). In ancient times, when there were no telephones, the inhabitants of the island, who were mainly engaged in cattle breeding, exchanged the language of whistling. They could whistle to warn of danger, of some joyful event, and even report news, and maybe even gossip.

A whole Silbo dictionary, which has become a national treasure. Today the whistling language is taught in schools on the island. There is no practical use for this language, but as an entertaining performance for tourists, it will exist for a long time. So tourists don’t have to worry - their great-grandchildren will also be able to hear Silbo Gomero.

Hierro

Square the smallest of the seven main Canary Islands is only 277 km². Like all the islands of the Canary archipelago, Hierro is an island of volcanic origin.
More recently, in 2011, an underwater volcano erupted near the town of La Restinga, from where residents were evacuated.

The tourism industry has barely affected the island, as there are no sandy beaches on the westernmost island. However, the islanders and a few tourists enjoy a beach holiday in Tamadosta, a quiet cove located 10 km from the island’s capital, Valverde. Also 8 km from the capital is the beach of Pozo de las Calcosas with convenient backwaters for swimming and many bungalows made of steep stones.

Playa de Verodal - the most beautiful beach on the island, covered with volcanic sand and located at the foot of a high cliff. Due to poor access road, the beach is almost empty.
Diving enthusiasts flock to La Restinha, one of the island's popular resort centers, having the status of a marine nature reserve. A large hotel, numerous bars, restaurants and shops along the Avenida Marítima promenade attract tourists.

Fans of excursions have practically nothing to gain here. Worthy of attention in the capital the only historical monument is the Church of Santa Maria de la Concepción, the date of construction of which dates back to 1767.
A complex of shepherd's huts, which have been reconstructed and furnished from different eras, can be found in the ecological museum located in Casas de Guinea, an ancient Norman settlement of the 15th century.

Intrepid travelers can check out Lagartario, a nature reserve home to one and a half meter rare breeds of lizards.

Since there is no public transport on the island at all, the only way to travel around the island is to rent a car.

Of the 6 small Canary Islands, only one is inhabited - Graciosa(27km²). It is located just 2 km north of Lanzarote. They are separated by the narrow El Rio Strait.
In the port village of Caleta del Sebo and the fishing village of Pedro Barba there is not a single hotel, only a few boarding houses.

According to ancient legend, There are countless treasures buried on the island. They were never found, and among the local population there are no treasure hunters, only friendly and smiling fishermen with very weather-beaten and tanned faces.

The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the phrase Canary Islands is something magical and distant. Previously, holidays in the Canaries were considered expensive and elite, but now the islands are accessible to most tourists. The service, comfort and natural conditions in the Canaries are still considered unsurpassed. And this is the only place in Europe where you can relax on beautiful sandy beaches all winter. That is why the Canaries are called the “Islands of Eternal Spring”.

Check out my island guides:

The first thing that comes to mind when you hear the phrase “Canary Islands” (Las Islas Canarias) is something magical and distant. Previously, holidays in the Canaries were considered expensive and elite, but now the islands are accessible to most tourists. The service, comfort and natural conditions in the Canaries are still considered unsurpassed. And this is the only place in Europe where you can relax on beautiful sandy beaches all winter. That is why the Canaries are called the “Islands of Eternal Spring”.

From a geographical point of view, the Canary Islands are an archipelago of 7 large and several small islands. The Canaries belong to Spain, but nevertheless retain their autonomy. They are located in the Atlantic Ocean 100 km northwest of Africa. The most popular island is Tenerife.

Which island should you choose?

This archipelago has an interesting history. The islands gained their fame after Columbus discovered America, since it was on the island of La Gomera that Columbus made his last stop before discovering a new world. The Canary Islands become a window from Europe to New World America. Many states, such as Holland, Britain, Morocco, have fought over the islands of the archipelago for centuries, but the Canaries remain under Spanish rule.

Climate in the Canary Islands

On the islands one can observe a significant difference in climate, which is influenced by many factors - close proximity to Africa, the Atlantic Ocean, northern winds, mountainous terrain of the islands themselves, etc. In general, the weather on the islands is warm and clear throughout the year, changing seasons is almost unnoticeable. The water temperature stays at 20-25 °C, the air temperature in summer is above 30 °C, and in winter it rarely drops below 13-15 °C.

Do you need a visa to the Canary Islands?

Since the Canary Islands belong to Spain, Russians need a Schengen visa to holiday there, the same as for entering Spain itself.

7 Canary Islands

Canary Islands (Las Islas Canarias) (photo: Gróa Valgerður Ingimundardóttir)

Since all the islands of the Canary archipelago are of volcanic origin, they attract tourists with their amazing landscapes of volcanic rocks and black sand beaches. But the nature of the Canaries is surprisingly diverse and in addition to volcanic landscapes, here you can see tropical and pine forests, dunes and beaches with golden sand. Fauna and flora also abound in such beautiful conditions - 4 islands are declared national parks in Spain, two of which are under UNESCO protection.

In the Canaries, everyone will find a holiday to their liking. Someone will choose to stay in a comfortable hotel with developed infrastructure. Others will choose more specialized places to practice their favorite sport or quiet secluded places with untouched nature.

The most developed in terms of tourism infrastructure and the most popular among tourists from all countries is the island of Tenerife. The highest point in Spain, the Teide volcano, is located on its territory. Thanks to the volcano, the island has two distinct climate zones: the green north and the dry south.

Gran Canaria Island

Gran Canaria Island (photo: Szymon Prokop)

The island of Gran Canaria is the third largest of the Canary Islands and the second most popular among tourists. Due to the great natural contrasts, this island is called a “continent in miniature.” Here steep rocky shores coexist with spacious sandy beaches, mountains with dense tropical foliage give way to desert areas, and behind steep ravines there are valleys of banana plantations. Gran Canaria has the usual tourist centers and resorts specializing in water sports.

Fuerteventura Island

The second largest island of the Canary Islands, closest to Africa, is the island of Fuerteventura. Here are the best white sand beaches, which are practically untouched by civilization. This is a vacation for those who are looking for solitude, hiding from the hustle and bustle of civilization.

Lanzarote Island

Island of Lanzarote (photo: Ramón Valles)

Lanzarote is one of the oldest and easternmost islands of the Canary archipelago. This is the “island of fire-breathing mountains”, since about three hundred volcanoes fit on its territory. “Unearthly landscapes” are the main exotic of Lanzarote.

El Hierro Island

El Hierro Island (photo: Cancela de Sas)

The westernmost and smallest island of the archipelago is El Hierro. For the most part, its shores are rocky and steep, and the landscapes are very contrasting. This island is more suitable for nature lovers. Here you can see both harsh reefs and volcanic formations, as well as fertile valleys, vineyards and dense pine forests.

La Palma Island

La Palma Island (photo: Lutz Hirschmann)

The island of La Palma is the greenest of all the Canary Islands, 40% of its area is covered by forests. Residents of the island proudly call it “La isla bonita”, which means “beautiful island”. The island is dominated by rocky shores, so there are not many beaches, but they are not inferior in their cleanliness and beauty to any others from the Canary Islands.

La Gomera Island

Before you understand where the Canary Islands are, you need to know that it is an archipelago consisting of thirteen volcanic islands. The territory is located 115 kilometers from the coast of Africa and 1,000 kilometers from Spain in the Atlantic Ocean. The Canary Islands are an official province of Spain, which consists of seven large islands, which include Fuerteventura, El Hierro, Lanzarote, La Palma, Gran Canaria, Tenerife and La Gomera. In addition to the named areas, there are also several small areas of land that remain uninhabited. It is also noteworthy that the archipelago has two capitals. Every four years, this honorary title passes from the city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

It is worth noting that the formal affiliation of the islands with Spain in no way affects the local atmosphere, which can hardly be called European. Most travelers land at the Canary Islands airport for a truly exotic experience. For example, it is rare to find volcanic black beaches and such a wide variety of ripe, delicious fruits. An important factor is also the fact that the exotic is located only a few hours away by flight, if you do not take into account the time spent on transfers. Holidays here are not limited to idle relaxation on the beach; a huge number of prehistoric natural monuments are scattered throughout the archipelago, including valleys of cooled lava, waterfalls, and volcanoes. In addition, tourists are also offered high-quality service and a large selection active entertainment, including for divers and surfers.

Climate of the Canary Islands

The Canaries have long been called islands where eternal spring reigns. Wherein climate of the Canary Islands directly depends on their geographical location. Despite the fact that territorially they are considered part of Spain, in fact it would be more logical to call them northwest Africa. The proximity to the Sahara Desert played a significant role. However, the hot air masses are moderated by the northeast trade winds, as well as the El Golfo sea current, which washes the coastlines of the archipelago. The listed factors, combined together, recreate the climate of a provincial, remote part of Italy as it is today.

The Canaries are a year-round tourist destination, where the average annual temperature is +22 degrees. For the winter period, the average temperature is +18 degrees, and for the summer - +24 degrees.

There are no sharp temperature changes on any of the islands of the archipelago, that is, the difference between the hottest summer day and the coldest winter day is usually ten degrees. If we consider individual island areas, it is worth noting that the temperature between them differs by 3 - 5 degrees, but in general the climate is slightly different.

Weather by month in the Canaries

If we describe the climate of the Canary Islands by month, it is worth noting that winter here takes on a very conditional character. In the winter season it is windier here, which does not at all interfere with a comfortable pastime. The average daytime temperature in winter is +23 degrees, and the night temperature is +19 degrees. The water is also quite suitable for swimming. Its temperature is +20 degrees. In winter there is an influx of tourists who go diving or surfing. February is considered the quietest month with reasonable prices for holidays:

1. December is considered a unique opportunity for a traveler to simultaneously enjoy a beach holiday and walk along the snow-covered mountain slopes.
2. January is considered a windy month, so the ocean waters can be choppy. The water temperature usually does not rise above +19 degrees, so for relaxation it is better to choose a hotel with a swimming pool.
3. February represents the coldest month when beach holidays are closed.

In spring, the Canaries warm up quickly, but it becomes rainy. Long showers do not cool the air, which only gains moisture from them. It is worth noting that the temperature in the Canary Islands does not change much from month to month in spring. Its indicator ranges from +22 to +25 degrees. Families with children choose April for a holiday in the Canaries, since it is already quite warm here, but there is no sultry heat. This circumstance greatly facilitates the acclimatization process for young travelers.

In summer, the archipelago attracts the most tourists who fly here from different parts of the world, so it is recommended to plan your summer vacation in advance.

June is considered the beginning of the high season, which ends in October. The weather of the first summer month is not significantly different from the spring. July can be called the culmination of the season, but there is no typical tropical heat. If we look at the weather of the Canary Islands by month, it is worth noting that the temperature rises highest in August and reaches +30 - +32 degrees. Moderate winds save you from the sultry heat. In autumn, the number of tourists decreases only due to the start of the school year, but the weather remains summer, favorable for recreation. Fans of enchanting shows should visit the Canaries in September, since most national celebrations occur during this month.

How to get there

You can get to the archipelago, which is a province of Italy, only by plane. It’s worth noting right away that tickets need to be purchased in advance. Direct flights depart from Moscow, the flight will take seven hours. To save a little you can choose connecting flights with transfers. Today, many tour operators advise making a transfer in Barcelona or Madrid. As a rule, for most flights from Europe or Russia, the destination is Gran Canario and South Airport in Tenerife. Air communication is established with all the islands belonging to the archipelago. Each of the seven islands has its own airport, which receives guests every day and sends them home. It is also worth remembering that in order to go through passport control upon arrival, you need a Schengen visa for the Canary Islands or a national visa for Spain.

What to see

Teide National Park is located in Tenerife, that is, in the same place as the volcano of the same name. The main feature is the fact that the volcano is located inside the crater of another volcano. The surrounding valley is made of solidified lava and resembles the surface of Mars. A beach called Playa de las Americas is also considered a local attraction. Its infrastructure is very diverse. There are not only cafes and restaurants here, but also all kinds of water activities and volleyball courts. Garajonay Park, which occupies the territory of the island of La Gomera, is interesting for its flora and fauna. Fascinating excursions through laurel forests with unique animals will be remembered for a long time. You can get here by ferry; one day is enough to see the local attractions, after which it is better to move to another island.

The territories are rich in natural and historical monuments, so most tourists prefer to combine a beach holiday with a cultural one. In just a few days you can get acquainted with the history of these lands. So, no matter where you go on holiday in the Canary Islands, your holiday should be planned in order to enjoy it as much as possible.

The Canary Islands are a vacation for lovers of beauty: kilometers of black volcanic beaches, massive rocks and Martian landscapes, more than 17 volcanoes, eucalyptus and laurel forests, sand dunes, toy balconies, an open sky area and the study of cosmic processes.

about country

Canary Islands (Las Islas Canarias)- an archipelago consisting of 7 large and 6 small islands of volcanic origin, lost in the Atlantic Ocean.

Geographically, the Canaries are part of Macaronesia along with the Azores, Madeira, Selvaz Islands and Cape Verde. Western Sahara is, as they say, just a stone's throw away - just 500 kilometers by water.

On the political map of the world, the Canaries represent an autonomous community of Spain with all that it implies:

● language of communication - Spanish;

● religion - Catholicism;

● monetary unit - euro (EUR, €);

● Immigration policy is absolutely identical to mainland Spain (entry with a Schengen visa for a period of no more than 90 days in six months).

It’s impossible to get bored, each island is unique and definitely deserves your attention:

● Here is the calling card of the entire archipelago, the highest volcano in the Atlantic Ocean - Teide (3718 meters above sea level). You can climb it in two ways: by cable car from the lower station (27 euros) and on foot. Don't forget to throw on a warm jacket and wear comfortable sneakers, it's cold up there.

●Can't live without trekking and hiking? Pack your bags and quickly go explore the relict forest of Anaga. This is, without a doubt, a real miracle of nature: huge ferns and laurels, fabulous nooks and crannies, dizzying serpentines and an atmosphere of mystery. For gourmets in national reserve There are several trails with closed access (by appointment).

● How do you like this idea: go through the treks in the Chinyero National Park, go down the pirate trail in the village of Maska, look into the eyes of fear in the Devil's Gorge?

● The Canaries is a zone of open skies and the study of cosmic phenomena. Where else if not here to observe through the most powerful telescopes in the world? The Teide Observatory is at your service, and with children, also take a look at the Science and Space Museum in La Laguna.

● Entertainment on the island is endless: Loro Zoo with the largest penguinarium in Europe and interactive shows of killer whales, dolphins, sea ​​lions and parrots, Siam water park (the best water park in the world according to Tripadvisor), petting zoo, play areas, jumping, karting, swimming with turtles and dolphins, boat trips in the open ocean, knightly tournaments and much more interesting things.

On other islands

What makes it special:

● The incredible dunes of Maspalomas, which appeared where in principle they could not exist - on the ocean shore.

● Numerous caves. The most famous of them is located in the town of Galdar.

● And, of course, the town of Puerto Mogan. It’s as if it was painted on canvas by the skillful hands of an artist: Canarian balconies frame the streets, and the entire embankment is buried in red and purple flowers.

For surfing and sea romance better place not on the planet! Fuerta is blown by winds from all sides both in summer and winter. The island has some of the most reputable surf schools on the planet. If you don’t know how to stand on the board, they will teach you, one lesson will cost 35-45 euros.

Tourists are attracted by the Timanfaya National Park and the El Diablo restaurant, where all dishes are prepared using the geothermal heat of an active volcano. Unfortunately, you cannot get to Timanfaya on your own, unlike national park Teide, but for the sake of a walk and an unusual lunch in the reserve, you can temporarily turn into a simple observer.

It’s quite possible to see babies Hierro and Homer in one day. If you are attracted by the surface (laurel forests), then by the underwater world. And not just the underwater world, but the entire national underwater reserve of La Restinga (depth about 250 meters).

Last changes: 09/01/2019

Canary beaches

All beaches on the Canary Islands are municipal, that is, free. You only need to pay for the use of sun loungers and umbrellas if you want to use them.

Some islands of the Canary archipelago are more fortunate with good beaches, while others are not at all lucky.

On the island Tenerife– the most diverse beaches in the Canaries: with yellow sand from the Dominican Republic (Abama), with sand from the Sahara (Teresias), as well as many beaches with dark and black sand. Rocky coastline only in Buenavista Norte and Los Gigantes. Even near Roques de Anaga where sharks swim there is sand, only it is black kinetic. You can sculpt anything from it and it will hold its shape without water.

On Gran Canaria There are beaches with light sand, and there are beaches with gray sand. The real “pearl” of the island is sand dunes, with the purest golden sand and a well-maintained five-kilometer beach.

La Graciosa famous for its magnificent long beaches with golden sand.

On Lanzarote there are not many beaches, all of them have light sand and occupy only 16.5 kilometers of the island’s 213 kilometer coastline, the rest is rocky.

Coast on the island La Palma It is mostly rocky, so there are few good beaches here.

On La Gomera The coastline is mostly rocky and steep; there are quite a few beaches here, but mostly they are not wide, covered with dark volcanic sand or stones.

On El Hierro There are no beaches with light sand, there are only a few not very large beaches with black volcanic sand.

Best of luck with the beaches Fuerteventura, they are here with fine light sand, many kilometers long, wide and sparsely populated.

Mobile communications and Internet

If you already have a Vodafone, Orange or Movistar SIM card purchased in Madrid or any other city in Spain, you do not need to purchase anything additional. The card will also be active in the Canaries.

However, the most affordable tariffs are offered by local mobile operators, whose SIM cards can be purchased online or in mobile phone stores.

Mobile operators do not have unlimited Internet, nor do they have free calls to Russia.

Tariffs are divided into contrato (for residents) and prepago (for foreigners). Your option is prepago.

Current offers and prices:

Lebara. You can view the tariffs and buy a SIM card on the official website. 10 GB + 200 included minutes to national numbers will cost you 15 euros.

Lycamobile. Official site . 10 GB of traffic + 100 minutes within Spain + 100 minutes within the network - 15 euros.

Masmovil. See points of sale and tariffs here. 2GB + 150 minutes - 11 euros.

Recently, a Lycamobile SIM card can be purchased at Tenerife South Airport. True, it will cost 5 euros more than on the website.

Don't forget, you need a passport to buy a SIM card!

Last changes: 09.25.2019

➔ Renting a car couldn't be easier. Two local rental companies, Cicar and Plus Car, will delight you with low prices, free reservations and the absence of any franchises. The rental price per week starts at 90 euros. International rights are not needed.

➔ Banana plantations, aloe farms and wineries are the basis of agriculture and farming. However, few people know that by visiting an aloe farm or winery, you can not only buy something interesting at a wholesale price, but also find yourself on an individual free excursion with tasting.

➔ It’s cheaper to buy food, fish, shrimp and small items for the home on the Mercadona network.

➔ You can enter Siam Park and Loro Park using a twin ticket, which is a single ticket for both parks costing 65 euros. If you really like it and want to repeat it, go to the administrator at the exit and buy a repeat visit for 19 euros.

➔ In addition to beachwear, do not forget to take a sweater or jacket with you to the Canaries for excursions to the mountains and volcanoes, as well as comfortable shoes for trekking. In winter, there is sometimes snow at the top of the Teide volcano, so it is better to take a thicker sweater.

➔ In the evening, the administration of 5* hotels asks men not to visit restaurants in shorts, this also applies to casinos. So it’s still worth taking pants with you.

➔ Siesta in the Canaries is the exception rather than the rule. While almost everything is closed from 13:00 to 16:00 throughout Spain, here the situation is the opposite.

Finally, the Canaries are a paradise for shopaholics. Huge shopping centers, duty-free shopping zones and sales seasons encourage frantic shopping. In almost every shopping center, in addition to the already low prices and discounts of up to 70%, any foreigner has the right to apply for an additional discount. To do this, you should contact the administration with an ID card and fill out a form.

Last changes: 09/24/2019

How to get there

Aeroflot, VIM Avia and UTair fly from Russia to the large islands of the Canary archipelago. There are direct and connecting flights. The approximate price of a ticket in economy class is 320 euros one way. Flight 7 hours without connections.

Airports:

● there are two of them in Tenerife: Tenerife Sur Reina Sofia South Airport receives international flights; Northern Tenerife Norte or Los Rodeos only domestic, including flights from Madrid and Barcelona;

● Las Palmas de Gran Canaria airport is not only the largest airport in the Canary Islands, but also a transshipment base for a huge number of flights;

● on the remaining islands there is one airport.

Transport between the islands is provided by Binter Canarias airlines and Fred Olsen ferries. A ferry ticket will cost you 60 euros, and a domestic flight is cheaper - only 30 euros.

Last changes: 09/01/2019

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Weather in the Canaries

Thanks to the prevailing winds (trade winds) and warm sea currents, the climate is very mild. It should be remembered, however, that the air temperature can drop significantly within just 10 minutes.

O. Tenerife

In July +24, in August +25, in September +25, in October +24, in November +22, in December +19

Average air temperature O. Gran Canaria

In July +23, in August +24, in September +24, in October +25, in November +25, in December +19

Canary Islands hotels 1 - 5 stars

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.

Gran Canaria (island)

The island of Gran Canaria is the third largest island, after Tenerife and Fuerteventura, with an area of ​​1532 km2. The combination of the rounded shape and the location of the highest peak of Pico de Las Nieves (Pico de Las Nieves) with a height of 2000 m in its geographical center, gives the island the outline of a huge mountain, reminiscent of a cone in shape with many extinct craters and deep ravines descending from the top to the ocean. The central mountain range, running from northwest to southeast, divides the island into a dry and sunny south and a humid north. In one day you can walk from the hot desert coast to the moderate valleys in the center of the island, cross subtropical forests and conquer peaks where snow sometimes falls. The island is home to a huge number of plants brought from Europe, Africa and America: pine forests in Tamadaba and lime groves of Los Tilos, El Monte vineyards and coffee plantations in Agaete, palm trees and almonds grow here, there are banana, tomato and sugar cane plantations. The countless variety of landscapes and microclimates that have earned Gran Canaria the title of “a continent in miniature” are some of the island's main attractions.

Most of the beaches are concentrated in the southern part of the island, where the climate is sunnier and drier. The largest dune beach, Maspalomas, stretches for 6 km and covers an area of ​​400 hectares. It is a national park and therefore no cars are allowed there: you can move around on foot or on camels.

At the northeastern tip of the island is its capital, Las Palmas. Every four years it also becomes the capital of all the Canary Islands - the provincial government alternates between sitting there and in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of the island of Tenerife. On east coast between Las Palmas and the beaches of Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, 25 km from the capital international Airport Gando.

Lanzarote (island)

Lanzarote is called the island of fire-breathing mountains - on a small island about sixty kilometers long and fifteen kilometers wide, there are about three hundred volcanoes! In the fall of 1730, lava and hot ash began to burst out simultaneously from thirty craters. The eruption lasted six years and as a result, a third of the island became covered with lifeless basalt and ash. The next eruption occurred in the 19th century. In the center of the island a ridge of volcanic cones has grown, reminiscent of lunar mountains. The lava comes very close to the surface and at a depth of several meters the temperature reaches several hundred degrees.

The main attraction of Lanzarote is the Cueva de Los Verdes cave. It is located in the north of the island under the lava fields of the Corona volcano. This is the largest lava cave in the world - it stretches for 6 kilometers, some of its halls reach 24 meters in width and 15 meters in height. The cave was formed when a river of molten basalt from the Corona side crater continued to flow under the cooled and hardened lava layer down into the sea. This is how a natural tunnel with bizarre shapes of walls and arches turned out. A concert hall was created in one of the cave halls.

Lanzarote's largest tourist center is the town of Puerto del Carmen. It has many hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs. Nearby, in the village of Costa Teguise, there are more luxurious hotels and entertainment centers.

In other parts of the island there are also places worth visiting: the beaches of Papagayo in the south, the cliffs and beach of Famara in the west, the Cactus Garden, the La Corona massif with the mysterious volcanic pipes of Los Jameos del Agua ) and Cueva de los Verdes. From the magnificent viewpoint of Del Rio in the north of the island you can observe the neighboring Chinijo archipelago, consisting of the deserted islets of La Graciosa, Montaña Clara and Alegranza; the first of them can be reached by sea from Lanzarote.

On the south coast, Papagayo Bay has the island's best beaches with white sand and crystal clear waters. Due to their inaccessibility, these beaches have retained their pristine beauty to this day. Among the interesting places on the island, we should also note the coastal area of ​​​​Los Hervideros, where lava intricately merges with the sea; and the stunning green crater of El Golfo.

Tenerife (island)

Tenerife is the largest, most famous and most visible island of the Canary archipelago. It is the top of the Teide volcano located on it that is seen from ships approaching the Canary Islands. The highest point of the mountain El Pico del Teide is located at an altitude of 3718 meters above sea level and is highest point not only the Canaries, but throughout Spain. The island of Tenerife is actually a huge mountain rising out of the sea and whose peak is the Teide cone.

The first eruption of the Teide volcano known to Europeans occurred in 1492, the year Columbus visited the Canary Islands. Then there were eruptions in 1706 and 1909. Once upon a time, after an explosion of enormous force, a crater with a diameter of about 29 km was formed. Three new volcanoes formed from the crack from which the magma came out. Now Teide is a huge volcanic cone in the center of a huge basin. The entire territory of the crater is a national park, the most visited in Spain.

Mountain ranges descending from the crater to the sea cut Tenerife into stunning valleys. Among them, La Oratava is especially noteworthy, before the beauty of which, according to legend, the German naturalist Humboldt and Gumar knelt. The coast of the island is steep in places, with cliffs and cliffs - for example, the Los Gigantes cliffs drop into the sea from a height of 600 m. The rest of the coast is covered with wonderful beaches with soft and clean sand. Some beaches have golden sand, some have volcanic black sand.

Mount Teide does not allow the cool winds that carry clouds to the southern half of the island. Therefore, the climate in the southern part of the island is drier and hotter, while in the northern part it is milder and cooler. But anywhere on the island it is magnificent and allows you to enjoy both relaxing on the beaches and excursions into nature.

Thanks to the amazing climate on the island of Tenerife, there is a familiar habitat for many plants. In addition, since the Canary Islands were a transit point on trade routes to America and Africa, many plants from these parts of the world were brought to the island. On the island there are cacti, eucalyptus trees, and many different ornamental flowers, shrubs and trees.

The island preserves the legendary dragon tree and Canarian laurel, which have become extinct in other areas of the Mediterranean. The dragon tree is a symbol of the archipelago. Although it grows very slowly, it reaches a height of 20 m. Even the ancient inhabitants of the Canary Islands, the Guanches, knew the healing properties of the resin of this tree, which is called “dragon’s blood”, because. in the air it turns bright red.

Another amazing tree grows in the mountains - Canarian pine. It is able to attach roots even to bare volcanic rock and is easily restored after fires. Canarian pine wood is very durable and fire-resistant, so it is a valuable construction and ornamental material. Carved souvenirs made from Canarian pine are sold in many tourist centers.

The capital of the island is the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Every four years it also becomes the capital of all the Canary Islands - the provincial government alternates between it and Las Palmas on Gran Canaria. The city is home to about 220 thousand inhabitants.

There are 2 airports on the island - Tenerife Norte Airport, 9 km from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and Reina Sofia International Airport in the south, 60 km from the capital of the island.

Fuerteventura (island)

The island of Fuerteventura has the longest and best beaches in the Canary Islands. Most of its coastline (340 km) is formed by white sand beaches, the width of which sometimes exceeds 1 km.

On Fuerteventura the mountains are not high and they cannot hold the ocean clouds, as happens on other islands of the Canary archipelago. Therefore, the island's climate is dry and the landscape is deserted, reminiscent of Africa. Due to the lack of water, agriculture practically did not develop on the island, and even now the population density on Fuerteventura is the lowest among the islands of the archipelago.

The island's best beaches - Jandia in the south and Corralejo in the north - can be considered among the best in the world. Some beaches are still deserted and practically untouched by civilization. The sea near the island is also special, shallow due to the peculiarity of the shelf, with clear turquoise water. A very rich and diverse underwater world attracts diving and spearfishing enthusiasts. But the most important sport in Fuerteventura is windsurfing. World Championships have been held on Jandia beach several times. In the strait separating the Canary Islands from Africa, you can catch sardines, tuna, and swordfish, which attracts many fishing enthusiasts.

The capital of the island is the city of Puerto del Rosario, located in the central part of the island. From the small village of Morro Jable on the south coast you can take a boat to the island of Gran Canaria. From the northern coast you can take an excursion to the uninhabited volcanic islet of Lobos or Lanzarote.