Each and every one of the 7 islands that make up the Canaries are an irresistible temptation for travellers at any time of year, but in winter in Europe, they’re in a league all of their own. The average annual temperature is more than 20ºC (in fact, UNESCO has classified the microclimate in Morgan, on Gran Canaria, as the best in the world). And it’s precisely for this reason that each year, large numbers of Europeans choose this archipelago as their winter holiday destination.
The Canary Islands offer visitors almost 1,500 kilometres of coast and countless options for enjoying their sunshineand privileged climate. From the vast white sandy beaches of Fuerteventura and Tenerife, to the small coves that nestle at the foot of the cliffs on the islands of La Gomera and El Hierro; or from the exotic landscapes formed by the dunes of Gran Canaria to the volcanic sand beaches of Lanzarote and La Palma.
Yet there’s much more to the Canary Islands than just beaches: visitors can explore picturesque towns, admire breathtaking landscapes and take part in unique local festivities. Gran Canaria offers visitors the chance to experience ‘rural Gran Canaria’, with outstanding nature trails that wind their way through inland towns and villages. On Tenerife you can visit Mount Teide, listen to a concert of traditional Isa and Folia music, observe the Guanche mummies in the Museum of Nature and Man, or tour the large Botanic Gardens in Puerto de la Cruz.
Tenerife and its Plaza del Charco is a great way to see in the New Year; here locals eat their lucky grapes while watching a spectacular fireworks display before dancing the night away in the streets to the sounds of local bands and mobile discos. Although the Canary Islands’ greatest celebration of all is undoubtedly its Carnival – especially on the two largest islands, Tenerife and Gran Canaria – which takes place in February. An authentic explosion of fantasy, colour and an exciting atmosphere that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.
In other words, the Canary Islands boast an extensive and varied leisure offer at any time of year. Its climate, natural environment and the open, friendly nature of its inhabitants are its greatest attractions. So come on, take a break from your chilly cities and enjoy winter in the Canary Islands!
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