Highlights of the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands is one of the top destinations for Irish and UK holidaymakers, and it’s no surprise why… The archipelago is perfect for unwinding and leaving stress behind. With seven UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and four World Heritage Sites, the natural paradise is waiting for your next visit.

The archipelago is home to digital nomads, working online in the year-round sunshine; Windsurfers who attend prestigious events like the Pozo Izquierdo International Championship in Gran Canaria;  Golfers who compete at the Real Club de Golf in Tenerife; Pilgrims and walking enthusiasts who travel on the volcanic Canary Islands section of the Way of St James (Camino de Santiago); Families and groups of friends who come to the Canaries for water sports, sunshine and great cuisine.

The Great Outdoors

  • El Teide, Tenerife – UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site
  • Garajonay National Park, La Gomera – UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site
  • Caldera de Taburiente National Park, La Palma
  • The Risco Caído and the Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria – UNESCO World Heritage Site

These spots are ideal for hiking and admiring plant species that are on the verge of extinction in many parts of the planet, such as the laurel forests, from the Tertiary Era.

The Garajonay National Park and La Caldera de Taburiente boast lush vegetation and kilometres of trails which are great to explore on a mountain bike. The whole of La Gomera is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Lovers of outdoor activities will find plenty of out-of-the-way routes to discover places that aren’t shown on maps.

The island of El Hierro is known for its mysterious beauty and the quality of its ocean bed. This is especially true in La Restinga, where a famous underwater photography competition, Open Fotosub Isla de El Hierro, is held.

Fuerteventura and La Graciosa are home to dreamy beaches with miles of white sand, ideal for riding camels. There are places to eat fresh fish, or other tasty Canary Islands cuisines such as its unique cheeses.

Canary Islands Carnivals

The archipelago is famous for its carnivals, such as the Indianos event in La Palma, the Day Carnival (el Carnaval de Día) in Gran Canaria and the Queen and Drag Queen festivals in Tenerife. There are countless gatherings including spoken word meetings, literary fairs, and opera and classic music events, such as the world-famous International Music Festival of the Canary Islands.

In El Hierro, a unique experience is its ancestral Descent of the Virgin gathering, as well as the Descent of the Virgin of La Palma. These two events have been declared as Festivals of Tourist Interest.

In addition, extraordinary concerts are offered in Lanzarote at the Jameos del Agua, a volcanic tunnel which is a picturesque setting to listen to music.

For more information on travel to the Canary Islands please visit wwww.hellocanaryislands.com

ENDS

IMAGES:https://www.dropbox.com/sh/azek443wjh196bh/AADWXlChmdbYZVEfHx-eG7jQa?dl=0