Where are the famous Canary Islands located? A guide to the seven most famous Canary Islands

Last July was 2 weeks in Fuerteventura. fairy island- the cleanest beaches for every taste: gently sloping with soft sand, rocky with pitfalls, deserted for many kilometers on Khantia (Kofet beach) (it is assumed that during World War II there was a base of German submarines (Winter's villa). The landscape is lunar with a frozen lava, the roads are impeccable, although when moving to the other side of the island through the ridge, they are steep and dangerous (during our time, a group of youngsters in a jeep slid into the abyss, but, thank God, stayed on the slope).

There is practically no public transport, it is better to rent a car right at the airport. We took a convertible Jeep Wrangler - a little expensive, but did not regret it. On sand, on rocks, on water - no problem. The island is practically unaware of the existence of the Russian language, but understands English perfectly, people are very friendly. We left backpacks in an open car for the whole day without any problems. Paradise for surfers, for lovers of free recreation and photographers, but there is nothing for party-goers to do there.

Apartment for two with a kitchen cost us 35 euros per day. We cooked it ourselves, as we adhere to a dietary diet, but we could not refuse oysters and mussels in a local restaurant, and even with cream sauce. On the beaches, unscrupulous chipmunks steal cookies from packages; they are not at all afraid of people.

It's very easy to get in - Renair flies from Barcelona, ​​the airport is small, the strip runs parallel to the water. Lobos Island is nearby - uninhabited, but very attractive, though some hippies live there, apparently not too officially :) In small lagoons, the water warms up to 35 degrees, you lie like in a bath, and even a small fish gives you a pedicure (completely free !).

There are pointers to all the craters and beauties - the pictures are awesome! discarded american liner already, unfortunately, dragged away, there were only photos on the wall of a local shop. I liked the village of Betancuria, located in the crater of a volcano - until you climb up the serpentine, you don’t understand exactly where it is located. A lot of ancient buildings, very tasty ice cream in a German cafe next to the center.

Separately, it is worth visiting the island of Lanzarote - a show with a geyser from an active volcano is something! Again, one can hardly boast that every day you eat a steak fried right on the mouth of a volcano, without any tricks. Shoes are recommended with cork soles (a local product, very comfortable and wearable, I have been wearing it for a year), as underfoot in literally the earth is on fire - it's hot! The islands can be reached from the port of Morro Jable by ferry - short, comfortable and strictly on schedule, and flying silver fish will accompany you along the way! Do not be fooled by fishing and dolphins - there are practically none there, once there were seals, but they were all caught in the last century, just like the trees that were cut down ALL for sale. Fuerteventura is a paradise for naturists, especially the beaches of Chantia - there will be practically no one nearby, the most “civilized” and beautiful is Corralejo beach, but clothes optional are not forbidden there, the wind is the least there and fine sand.

But on Kofete there are always strong waves and wind. Yes, even in Lanzarote the vineyards were amazed - each vine grows right in the lava in its own recess. There is also a distillery. True, I didn’t like the wine - it’s very sweet, more like liquor, but diligence local residents impressed. The beaches are all public, and, therefore, free, many have a blue sign of "beach" quality. But even the "wild" beaches are cleaned every morning, as well as the roads. We were stunned when we saw at 4 in the morning a vacuum cleaner car cleaning a mountain serpentine :) Herds of goats roam the roads, I suspect that someone else, but they walk like wild ones, they come up, you can feed them with bread. There are no flies and other nasty insects, no snakes, even sharks and those people do not burst - they understand that the island will not be good without tourists :) There are no reefs either, so diving is not particularly interesting. There are real dunes, as in the "White Sun of the Desert" - opposite the Sahara, and from there the wind brings the purest white sand, you can ride on the dunes like a hill, the sand does not even stick to your palms and leaves no traces of dust on clothes. A photo in the dunes at sunset, when a huge scarlet sun goes down below the horizon - it's something! We travel a lot, we always plan ourselves, we saw a lot of things, but Fuertoventura somehow hooked us, we plan to return ...

When we talk about the Canary Islands, first of all we are talking about the island of Tenerife, although in fact it is a beautiful, but not at all the best island of the archipelago. There are thirteen Canary Islands, of which seven are large and six are small. Rumor has it that there is another island .... We will also talk about this in our article. In addition, myths and realities about the Canaries await you, revealing the secrets of the climate and showing significant differences not only between the islands of the archipelago, but within them. To begin with, let's list the islands, since they are closely interconnected, and then we'll talk about the classification from different angles, which will help you decide on the choice of a vacation spot for your taste and wishes.

Inhabited Canary Islands:

There are eight inhabited islands, of which seven are large and one is small (La Graciosa)

• - the largest and populated island in the center of the archipelago, with an area of ​​more than 2,000 km2
• Fuerteventura - located in the east of the archipelago, is the second largest and the first most popular among surfers
• - the third largest island with the largest city of the Canaries - the capital of the island of Las Palmas
• — northeast island, which the Canarians call "another island", and everyone else - the island of fire-breathing mountains
• La Palma is the fifth largest island located in the West, the most green Island archipelago
• La Gomera is an island near Tenerife in the southwest, popular due to its large neighbor
• El Hierro - less than 300 km2 area in the southwest of the archipelago with a population of about 10 thousand people.
• La Graciosa is a satellite island of Lanzarote in the northeast of the archipelago, the northernmost, but not the most cold island canary

Uninhabited islands of the Canary archipelago:

These small but proud islands can be admired from the observation decks of the larger Canary neighbors and through the window of an airplane, making a flight between the islands of the archipelago.

• Alegranza
• Montagna Clara
• Lobos
• Roque del Oeste
• Roque del Este

Why are the Canary Islands so popular for winter holidays?

There are many reasons, for example:

• The duration of the flight cannot be compared with a flight to countries where a comfortable beach holiday is possible in winter. A flight from Europe delivers 4 to 5 hours depending on the city of departure and the island where you are going. For example, it takes 4.5 hours to fly from Berlin to Lanzarote, and 5 hours from Berlin to Gran Canaria. This fact explains the huge number of Europeans who annually vacation in the Canary Islands.
• Comfortable and not too hot air temperature, while low relative humidity (within 50%). If we compare the humidity indicator with the popular Russian resort Sochi, then last summer it can reach 95% and even 100%. Therefore, if acclimatization almost never happens in the Canary Islands, then arriving in Sochi and another resort with high air humidity, you can get really sick or just not feel very good during your vacation. In winter (January, February) in the resorts of the Canary Islands, the temperature is about 20-25 degrees. Why I wrote “on the resorts” and not “on the islands” you will find out when you read the article to the end and understand how the weather can differ even within the same island.
• The absence of poisonous snakes and other dangerous animals. Even in sand dunes in the south of the island of Gran Canaria, you can safely swim in the sand and are not afraid that you will meet something there that threatens health and life.
• No sharks dangerous to humans. Since the ocean is quite cold, for example, compared to the Indian Ocean, heat-loving marine predators do not like to swim in its waters. Several species of sharks are found off the coast of the Canary Islands, but they are not dangerous to humans and no attacks have been recorded.
• Rest European level among people with a similar culture and worldview. When visiting Asia, there are a huge number of precautions associated with different religions, customs and customs that are unclear to a Russian tourist, and besides, in the Canary Islands, unlike Asia, it is quite traditional cuisine and no unsanitary conditions.
• Canarians are very friendly and welcoming people. If you want to feel like at a dinner with your family in a restaurant, see open and cheerful people everywhere and enjoy the extraordinary beauty, then you are in the Canary Islands!

Borondon Island:

Since we have sorted the islands into inhabited and not inhabited, we should divide them into real and fictional, or rather not fictional, but not proven to exist. In fact, there is only one such unconfirmed and uncharted island in the Canary archipelago - San Borondon.

A lost or not found island is a pride of the Canarians and a mystery for the guests of the archipelago. History has a lot of evidence that different people in different times confidently told that they not only saw San Borondon from the shores of La Palma and El Hierro, but also landed on its shores during the wreck of the ship. Occasionally on the coast western islands takes out strange plants and even the fruits of fruit trees that do not grow in the Canaries archipelago, which in itself is an indirect confirmation of the existence of this place. This unique island is located in the west of the archipelago, southwest of the island of La Palma and north of El Hierro. It appears suddenly in both cloudy and clear weather, and disappears in fog or behind a rain stream.

According to eyewitnesses, the outlines of the island are unchanged, which made it possible to draw up a description of the "mirage": an oblong shape, the island is elongated from north to south, the relief is a plain between two mountains of different heights.

The island got its name from the name of the monk Brendan, who first spoke about the existence of the mysterious lost Holy Land.

There is an opinion that this floating island, formed as a result of the descent of a layer of volcanic rocks from one of the mountain peaks of the archipelago. The volcanic rock is porous, so it can freely float on the surface of the water, and in the event of a storm go under water, which confirms the fact of a sudden appearance and disappearance. This theory has its adherents and opponents, but be that as it may, it will not be possible to go to the island yet.

On all the islands of the archipelago, there is sure to be an institution called San Borondon, and more than one, as in beautiful legends I want to believe.

Islands of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife:

The province includes islands located in the west of the archipelago

• Tenerife, where the provincial capital is located -
• La Palma
• La Gomera
• El Hierro

Islands of the province of Las Palmas:

The province includes islands located in the east of the archipelago

• Gran Canaria, where the provincial capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is located
• Fuerteventura
• Lanzarote
• La Graciosa
• Alegranza
• Montagna Clara
• Lobos
• Roque del Oeste
• Roque del Este

Active volcanoes in the Atlantic Ocean:

• Tenerife is the largest and most populous island on which the highest point of the archipelago is located -. Tenerife is the capital of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the most visited island in the archipelago. Russian tourists. You can come to Tenerife and not visit the volcano only if it was not allowed to do so weather otherwise it's just not allowed.

• - the island on which 300 are located active volcanoes, that is, a third of all volcanoes on our Earth. The landscapes of the island are not real and it seems that you found yourself on another planet. Those who have visited Lanzarote believe that Teide is just Mountain peak and nothing more, although Lanzarote does not have such high and large craters as Teide, so you should definitely visit both Teide in Tenerife and Lanzarote volcanoes before drawing conclusions ...

I will not single out other volcanoes of the archipelago separately, although they deserve attention, nevertheless, the largest and highest crater is mentioned above, as well as the island with the largest number of craters and the consequences of the eruption.

The beaches of the Canary Islands

Fuerteventura confidently leads the ranking, as the number of beaches on this island exceeds 150 and stretches for more than 70 km. Most of the beaches boast white sand, but there are also black ones. volcanic sand. In fact, this island is an exclusively beach holiday, as it has a minimum of infrastructure for other entertainment. Not many restaurants or shops and endless beaches with constant wind and waves. This favorite place for surfers. The name of the island speaks for itself: "fuerte" means "strong" and "el viento" means wind.

Due to the unusualness of the second, I consider it necessary to note Maspalomas beach on Gran Canaria:

The uniqueness lies in the fact that coastline beach - sand dunes, with an area of ​​​​about 400 hectares, which are a protected area, on which it is forbidden to move by any means of transport. The peculiarity of Maspalomas beach is the ever-present wind that redistributes the sand along the coast. This is the most south point islands, on which the sand was brought by the wind from the Sahara desert.

The sand is distributed in different ways and every day you can see a hill in a place where yesterday it was not even in sight. This place is unusual, but in my opinion, its choice depends on the season, since in winter, with a sufficiently low air and water temperature, the presence of wind makes a beach holiday here not comfortable, while Amadores beach located in the southwest perfect place. Amadores closed artificial bay white sand, protected by mountains from the wind and breakwaters from the waves, will offer a calm warm ocean V comfortable temperature no wind. In my opinion, this is the perfect place for beach holiday in the Canary Islands in winter.

When talking about Tenerife, one cannot but mention the beaches of the island, as our compatriots love and know this particular island and want to know more about it. It is believed that, which is located in the resort of Adeje.

I was, I saw, there is something to compare with on the island and not only, therefore I will mark it as worthy, but I do not consider it the best. In my opinion, the highlight are.

On the island of Lanzarote famous beaches PuntadePapagayo (Punta de Papagayo). Separated by volcanic rocks, bays with yellow and white sand and turquoise water are the highlight of the island. There is a separate bay for nudists and 5 more beaches stretching for kilometers where you can enjoy the beauty of virgin nature.

There are other beaches of other Canary Islands that are distinguished by the rare color of the water, the landscape, the legends created around them or other significant facts, but we won’t be able to discuss everything within the framework of one article, so I suggest moving on to the next question.

Canary Islands ocean what and when:

Among major islands on two, almost all year round, the temperature of the water in the ocean is much colder than on others. It's two eastern islands archipelago: Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. This is due to the cold currents off the coast of these marvelous islands. Therefore, you should not assume that you can choose any island at any time of the year for a beach holiday, you may be disappointed. Of course, in summer, when the air temperature exceeds 30 degrees, the cool ocean invigorates and saves you from overheating, but in windy and cool winters, most of the beaches are empty. Unless surfers cut through the waves at any time of the year, and it is on these islands that they are the vast majority.

The cold waters of the ocean do not attract dangerous predators, so shark attacks do not happen here, just as it is not represented great variety dangerous stingrays or sea urchins.

But just because the water temperature in the ocean in Lanzarote is cold, it does not mean that there is no opportunity to take a dip in the ocean. Residents of Lanzarote already in February go on a regularly running boat to the neighboring small island La Graciosa and swim with great pleasure, as the water temperature is higher there.

On other islands of the archipelago, the water temperature in the ocean is higher, but it also depends heavily on the season and the resort. For example, in Tenerife, in the northern part of the island, in the oldest resort of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the water temperature barely reaches 19 degrees in winter, and in the south of the island at the same time, many swim in the salty ocean at a temperature of about 23 degrees. The situation is similar on Gran Knaria, where in the north the ocean is cold, not criminal and cold,

and in the south in Puerto Rico and on the Amadores beach, the water is full of people who want to swim at the same 23 degrees.

Which Canary Islands are the warmest:

The warmest eternal rivals are the islands of the provincial capitals - Tenerife and Gran Canaria. But the concept of warm is very specific to the Canary Islands. Let me explain why with a specific example.

Mountain peaks correspond to areas of the island where it is colder and rainier, clouds cling to high mountains and they settle there. This is more true for islands where the elevation changes are greater, for example, on the aforementioned Tenerife and Gran Canaria. On flatter islands without high peaks temperature is more or less uniform.

A large friendly family that has long dreamed of visiting the Canary Islands took a long time to decide to do this and chose for their two-week vacation sunny island Gran Canaria. Well, it's a great choice. But the rest was not entirely successful ... And the thing is that the family, in order to save money, decided to rent Vacation home in a place called Moya in the northern part of the island in the mountains. It is a pity that they did not take into account the peculiarity of the island, due to the fact that in the mountainous regions the air temperature is much lower than on the coast and the possibility of precipitation is much higher here. And so it happened, instead of the temperature of 23 degrees promised in numerous stories about the resorts of the island, they had to be content with 12 degrees. As a result, the economy cost, as they say, sideways. I had to rent a large minivan for the whole family and make daily two-hour trips back and forth to Amadores beach, which is comfortable at this time of the year. In order not to spoil your vacation and not be disappointed, you should carefully consider not only the choice of the island, but also the choice of the resort on it!

The greenest island in the Canary archipelago

The greenest island the largest number Vegetation - La Palma - the most western in its geographical location.

The most deserted island of the archipelago is Lanzarote. Vegetation on it in the form of green bushy plantings appears after short rains and disappears after a week, leaving lava fields and lifeless plains.

Most popular among residents Scandinavian countries island of the archipelago - Gran Canaria. Travel business Gran Canaria, represented by guides and hotels, dreams of tourists from Russia, while the most popular island among Russians, Tenerife, dreams of tourists from Scandinavia and Europe. Therefore, if you want to be surrounded by compatriots and most services are provided, including in Russian, then you better go to Tenerife, and if communicating in English and German is not a problem for you, then why not go to Gran Canaria.

If you can’t decide which of the islands to choose, then don’t. I suggest that you do not stop at one, but if time permits, visit two islands during your vacation, or maybe choose new islands each time. I did just that and in the period from 12/30/2014 to 01/09/2015 I managed to visit Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. described in detail by me, and more than one article will be written about the extraordinary beauty of the islands.

We wish you an exciting journey and bright emotions!!!

See you on the pages of the site and thank you for your comments)

The Canary Islands are an archipelago of volcanic islands located in the Atlantic Ocean. The history of the Canary Islands is very interesting and rich. It was here that Columbus made his last stop before the discovery of America. Homer's Island has become a window from Europe to New World, and the Canary Islands are widely known. Many states of the century fought for the archipelago, but the Canaries continue to remain under the control of Spain.

Canary Islands on the map:

It is not difficult to find the Canary Islands on the map, they are located near the northwestern coast of Africa, Morocco and Western Sahara. Geographically, the archipelago is part of the Macaronesia group of volcanic islands (Cape Verde Islands, Azores, Madeira and Selvages).

What islands are in the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands are comprised of 7 major inhabited islands and a few small ones that have hardly been touched by civilization. TO inhabited islands relate:

1. Homer
2. fuerteventura,
3. Lanzarote,
4. Hierro
5. Palm.

The largest densely populated island with a developed tourist infrastructure is Tenerife. Here is the highest point in Spain - the Teide volcano, and it is here that the Canary Islands begin.

Climate and weather in the Canary Islands

One of the main treasures of the Canary Islands - unique climate, moderately hot and dry. The water temperature during the year does not fall below 20 ° C, and most days the sun shines. Because of the beautiful weather, the Canary Islands are often called islands. eternal spring.

In general, the weather on the islands is warm and clear throughout the year, the change of seasons is almost imperceptible. The big advantage of the Canary Islands is the lack of acclimatization even for those coming from the northern regions.

Nature of the Canary Islands

Thanks to volcanic origin The Canary Islands boast unique black volcanic beaches, diverse flora and fauna. Here you can walk through the tropical and pine forests, then find yourself on sand dunes and beaches with golden sand. By the way, 4 islands are declared national parks of Spain, two of them are under the protection of UNESCO.

Holidays in the Canary Islands

It used to be that holidays in the Canary Islands were quite expensive and inaccessible. Today, the number of vacationers many times exceeds the number of local residents. This is a great alternative to vacations in neighboring African countries during the winter.
The archipelago is great for beach holidays and holidays with children. Fans of outdoor activities will not be bored either: diving, surfing, sea fishing, paragliding in tandem and other sports are very developed in the Canaries.

Tours to the Canary Islands

healthy climate and warm weather makes the Canary Islands attractive for tourists at any time of the year. You can buy a tour in Tenerife or another island from several tour operators, the average cost of the tour is from 800 euros / person for 7 nights. By the way, many hotels operate according to the beloved all-inclusive system.

Yachting in the Canary Islands

Small distances between the islands, evenly blowing trade winds and Nice weather create comfortable conditions for traveling on a yacht in the Canary Islands. The yachting infrastructure is improving every year, a large number of marinas with related services and yacht clubs. Many northern European ships come to the Canary Islands for a warm winter.

Warm sea, unique beaches, beautiful coves– The Canary Islands are an ideal place to travel on a yacht between November and March. As part of a weekly yachting it is possible to visit Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma or Gran Canaria. If you want to see all the islands, then such a trip will take from two weeks. Start and finish, as a rule, in Tenerife.

A nice bonus for yachting: storms and hurricanes are very rare here.
Check out ours or take advantage of our own fleet, our prices will pleasantly surprise you.

New Year in the Canary Islands

We definitely recommend New Year in Tenerife. New Year holidays last 12 days. It all starts with a quiet family holiday catholic christmas December 25th. On January 1, lively celebrations take place in the city squares and promenades in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Puerto Santiago and Las Americas.

If you come to town square and eat 12 grapes, then each of the grapes will bring good luck in the new year. Completes the series new year holidays Day of the Three Wise Men. Magnificent processions on horses and camels are accompanied by presenting all those present with gifts and sweets.

canary islands visa

The Canary Islands legally belong to Spain, which means that EU rules apply on their territory and you need to obtain a Schengen visa to enter.

Tourism in this autonomy of Spain has long been the basis of the country's economy, although not everyone is able to even find the Canary Islands on the world map. This small archipelago is located near Africa.

Tourists come here in droves to enjoy the natural and cultural attractions, but the main reason why travelers come here is the ocean, where you can try diving, surfing, and sea fishing. Before traveling to this country, you need to carefully study the geography of the islands, choose the best one.

There are seven main islands in total - these are Grand Canaria, Lanzarote, El Hierro, La Gomera, La Palma and Fuerteventura. The area of ​​​​the entire territory is only 7447 square kilometers, and the population is just over two million people.

In contact with

Where are they located on the world map

First of all, you need to find out that the Canary archipelago is part of Spain, but the territory itself is located in the Atlantic Ocean, not far from northwest Africa.

The Canaries consist of seven separate islands, tourism is developed on each of them. Mostly the largest of them - Tenerife and Grand Canaria - are popular, but other territories of "eternal spring" have long been opened for true travelers.

Tenerife

Let's start exploring the Canary Islands from Tenerife. Not the most on the world map large territory Canary, but one of the most important. It is in Tenerife that many tourists come in search of unforgettable landscapes and amazing beaches.

The main attractions are: the city of San Cristobal de la Laguna, Loro Park, Masca Gorge and others. Tourist season lasts from April to October, although the weather allows you to enjoy the beauties all year round.

Surfers have long chosen this place, because you can ride the waves here at any time. At the same time, you can find beaches for beginners, and it will not be difficult for more experienced people to catch big waves off the coast.

Grand Canaria

Tourists come here to relax on the cleanest beaches, of which there are plenty. In addition, in the cities you can find buildings that are already five centuries old. This will be a godsend for all history buffs.

From natural beauties must visit national park Nublo. It is interesting that Tenerife and Grand Caaria are constantly changing the status of the capital, although until 1927 the capital was only in Tenerife, now the status of the main city moves every four years. The population of all cities is more than 850 thousand people.

Lanzarote

The easternmost small island of the Canaries. Here you can find space landscapes and beautiful beaches peace. You should definitely visit this place, because only there National parks where you can see volcanoes, caves and wild beaches.

All the main attractions are located on the outskirts, so it is better to explore Lanzarote by car, although its area is not large.

Fuerteventura

Surfers around the world are in a hurry to conquer the waves near these shores. Fuerteventura is constantly blown by winds from the Atlantic, catching up high waves. But all connoisseurs of natural beauty also come here.

It is important to have time to visit the main attractions, such as Oasis Park, where you can see the zoo, Botanical Garden where thousands of species of animals and plants are collected. In addition, pay attention to entertainment, visit water parks, surfer clubs and more. The area is more than 1600 square kilometers, and the main attractions are scattered throughout the territory, so it is best to explore the beauty by car.

La Palma

Small but beautiful island archipelago. Worth a visit here beautiful places for swimming. In addition to the classic beaches with many tourists, here you can find unusual black sandy beaches where there are no crowds.

It is necessary to look at the architecture of the capital of La Palma - Santa Cruz de La Palma. You can get to La Palma by ferry from neighboring lands.

La Gomera

The administrative division of the Canary Islands is described in detail on Wikipedia. On the world map, the island of La Gomera can be found at the coordinates: n.l. 28.1189216, east -17.2236087.

The island is quiet and calm, there are not many tourists, true connoisseurs of beauty remain here. You can look at La Gomera from its highest point - at 1488 meters. Of the sights, it is important to see the Garajonay National Park, which is considered almost the most beautiful on the islands. The area of ​​La Gomera is small, so you can even move around by taxi, and you can see the entire territory in a day.

El Hierro

The area of ​​\u200b\u200bthis place is only 300 square kilometers, but here you can find such beauty that you will not find anywhere else. The temperature on the island is +20-27 all year round, which is why you can relax here in any month.

Beaches need to be carefully chosen - there are quiet and quiet places, or you can find a beach near the rocks, where there will be high waves. El Hierro is almost the westernmost lands of the Canary archipelago.

Map in Russian

The easiest way to get from Russia to the Canary Islands is by direct flight Moscow-Tenerife, and from there domestic flights easy to get to neighboring islands. Another easy way to get to all the neighboring islands is to take a ferry, communication within the Canaries is well developed. In some areas, you can afford to travel by taxi, given that the cost here is fixed, so taxi drivers will not be able to deceive you.

Before traveling, carefully study the map of the Canary Islands in Russian. Moreover, experienced travelers have long compiled a special map of attractions in Russian, with which you can make an excellent travel plan. Keep in mind that all the beauties are located on different islands, which you have to get to in any convenient way.

Photo

The sights of the Canary Islands can be explored for several weeks. But remember that these islands are not for budget tourists The prices here are quite high. But you need to see this beauty at least once in your life. Here everyone will find something to their liking.

Pyramids of Guimar

Quiet, family people can relax in the territory of numerous hotels, enjoying clean beaches, transparent ocean. Adventure seekers are required to climb the volcano, stand on a surfboard or walk along the black sand beaches.

You need to stay in the Canary Islands for at least a week, during which time you can explore several of the main islands. But to study all seven beautiful islands need to stay here more than 7 days.

Monastery of Senobio de Valeron

It is useful not only to find Grand Canaria or Tenerife on the world map, but also to find out what you can see there, what excursions to visit.

Columbus House Museum

Don't overlook these sights:

1. Pyramids of Guimar;
2. Monastery of Senobio de Valeron;
3. Columbus House Museum;
4. Dunes of Maspalomas;
5. Rock of Roque Nublo;
6. Teide National Park;
7. Aboriginal World Park;
8. The Botanical Garden of Viera and Clavijo is one of the largest in all of Spain, its area is almost 30 hectares, and it was opened in 1959.

Now you know where to look for the Canaries on the world map. The Canary lands are worthy of the attention of all adventure lovers. Of course, you can find beaches in Turkey and Greece, but the Canaries are amazing place, where there is a magical atmosphere.

Aboriginal World Park

Besides, where else can you find volcanoes, rocks, stormy ocean waves. There are not many tourists in some resorts and on some islands, so you will be able to be alone with nature. It doesn't matter which island you choose for your vacation - each of them has a great corner created especially for you.

For more information about the Canary Islands, see the following interesting video:

Islands of Eternal Spring, a quiet, secluded place that also has a reputation the best resort peace. The Canary Islands forever captivate those who have ever been here. And I, too, was no exception.

The Canary Islands is an amazing journey through time and space. Formally, it is. In practice, you will not find so much Spanish here: except perhaps the language. It was here that the ancient tribes of the Guanches, the indigenous inhabitants of the islands, lived. True Canarians do not consider themselves Spaniards and are even offended if they are called that.

Why is the Canaries called the islands of eternal spring? Here, the temperature is approximately the same all year round: not too hot, set off by pleasant ocean freshness, truly spring. 13 are concentrated here climatic zones and is highest point Spain - the stunning and mighty volcano Teide. Most tourists from Russia come to the island. He is definitely good. But other islands of the archipelago also deserve attention. There are seven in total:

• Lanzarote;
• Homer;
• Palm;
• Hierro.

If you ask me to name the best island in the Canary Islands, I will say: Fuerteventura. But you might like some other one the most. All of them are beautiful and unforgettable in their own way! But my heart belongs to Fuerteventura - the island of freedom, wind, flying sails of kitesurfers and happiness.

Many people think that the Canary Islands are named after canaries. In fact, everything is exactly the opposite. These little birds were first seen here and named after the islands. And the archipelago is named after dogs. The Spanish word for dog is el can. There are several versions of why dogs were given such an honor. Someone believes that ancient wild dogs lived here, someone says that the locals considered the dog to be a sacred animal. Nevertheless, the fact remains: the islands bear their name thanks to the dogs.

How to get there

The question of how to get to the Canary Islands is the easiest and most difficult at the same time.

The simplest - because there are not so many options. The most difficult - because most of them are expensive or inconvenient. Since the islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean, practically the only way to get to them from the "mainland" is by plane. But between the islands you can both fly and travel by ferry.

By plane

In the Canaries, there are airports on the following islands - Tenerife, Hierro, Las Palmas.

There are 2 airports in Tenerife - North (Los Rodeos) and South ( Tenerife Sur Reina Sofia). north airport serves flights arriving from Spain and departing to other islands. Yuzhny, in turn, is international and flights from Russia come here. There are many options for flights with transfers, but the most convenient direct flights from Russia () are carried out by 2 companies - Aeroflot and charter flights from Vim-Avia.

How long is the flight to the Canary Islands?

Travel time is 7 hours. But such a direct flight will cost about 500 EUR (34,000 rubles) per person in both directions from Moscow and a little more expensive from St. Petersburg (usually with a transfer in Moscow). You can see more accurate prices.

Clubs and nightlife

If you want to hang out, it's better to go to youth resorts or to Corralejo on. Although no city in the Canary Islands can be called a truly "discotheque", nevertheless, this area suggests a more relaxed and peaceful holiday.

1. In Lanzarote, nightlife lovers flock to Puerto del Carmen. In Corralejo in Fuerteventura, it is worth going to Mafaska or beach club Waikiki.
2. On Gran Canaria the main center nightlife- Playa del Inglés and surroundings.
3. But the leader among all discos in the Canaries is Lounge Cabana, which takes place in the Seaside Park in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

extreme sports

But there is more than enough extreme here: kitesurfing and windsurfing, many kilometers hiking trips, paragliding, cycling routes, sailing, diving, horseback riding, camel riding - each island offers all these types of outdoor activities.

In Tenerife, divers can explore the El Condesito wreck, the Palmmar underwater cave, or explore the life of stingrays. marine reserve Arinaga off the coast of Gran Canaria is of particular interest to amateurs underwater world. And a Russian hydrofoil that sank here in 2003 is so well preserved that divers can get inside. Near Lanzarote there are coral caves Cathedral. It is worth considering that for independent diving you will need a diver's certificate, a dive book and a passport. Beginners are offered introductory dives to a shallow depth.

On Tenerife the best place for surfers, Playa de las Americas and El Medano are considered. On Gran Canaria - Playa del Aguila.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

Aloe, aloe and more aloe. It is the main product of the islands and main souvenir which is brought from there. Of course, we are not talking about a plant in a pot, but about all kinds of products: creams and various care products, soap, jam - what they don’t do here!

In addition to aloe, cactus is more popular. Jam from it will also be a wonderful gift for friends and family. Shops on the embankments are full of standard souvenirs: magnets, cups, boomerangs, the nudist theme is played in an original way, and hipster buses are absolutely charming - from small toys to salt shakers and other utensils with their image.

How to move around the region

The two most convenient ways ride inside the islands: taxis and buses.
The two most convenient ways to travel between the islands are planes and ferries.

Taxi. What features exist

All taxis in the Canary Islands are official, the cars are painted white with a red stripe. If the taxi sign glows green, then the car is free.

Payment is by meter. Only the smallest islands have flat-rate taxis. As a rule, before the trip, the driver can roughly orient you how much the trip will cost.

The drivers are friendly, polite, ready to help, but unobtrusive.

Approximate prices: 1–1.5 EUR per kilometer. You can order a car in advance, or you can catch it on the street (it's even cheaper).

If you get into official taxis, and not to private traders, then there will be no problems!

Public transport

The Canary Islands has a well-developed bus network. The schedule can be found at bus stations and stops, you can take the bus along the entire route.

Buses run on schedule. This is a good, modern and comfortable transport. At bus stations, you can buy a ticket at the box office or from the driver, you can also get hooked at any stop and pay at the entrance. Inside the islands, we traveled by bus. I heard that there are situations when the bus simply does not come, but in my practice this has not happened. The buses always arrived on time and did not let us down.

Buses run between all major cities, the only thing to keep in mind is that the trip can be much longer than by taxi, as the bus will call into small villages and pick up passing passengers. But if you check the schedule ahead of time, you'll know what to expect.

Transport rental

Getting around each island by car is also very convenient. They are rented. But I don't drive, so it was irrelevant for me. In general, there are car rental points in every town and in every resort. Rental cars are available to travelers over 21 years of age. As a rule, a deposit is not required, but then you will not be able to leave the island by ferry. In some cases, you may still be asked for a deposit. Car rental costs from 30 EUR per day, but if you rent a car for a week or more, you can get a nice discount. By the way, you can order a car in advance, even from home, it will be provided to you right at the airport. You can see the prices for renting vehicles in convenient cities.

All the roads I have seen are free. But you need to be prepared for the fact that in some places the ideal track may end, and the primer will begin after it. Although in Lately almost all roads have already been upgraded and repairs are ongoing. The car must have full insurance. You will also need a passport and driver's license.

A yellow line on the side of the road means you can't park here. Blue - that parking is paid.

You shouldn't ride passenger car on Cofete on (this is dangerous and not a single insurance covers the road there). In the Canary Islands, there are very large fines for violations of the rules traffic so it's best to follow them carefully.

Canary Islands: holidays with children

I vacationed in the Canary Islands without children, but it seems to me that they are well suited for holidays with kids: the mild climate practically does not cause acclimatization, it is safe, comfortable and predictable in a good way.

In addition, there are many ways to entertain children in the Canaries: these are Loro Park in Tenerife and the large Zoo on, and the Ostrich Farm, and the Camel Park, and the water park.

Ski holidays

5 things to do in this region

1. Hear the silence in the roar of the ocean.
2. Went to hiking one of the routes national parks Canary Islands.
3. Experience the colonial architecture of one of the two (or both) capitals: Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
4. Watch birds, lizards, chipmunks or goats in the wild.
5. Feel like a tiny part of this huge, beautiful world!