Canary Islands

Over 300 days of sunshine per year is why those living in the European Continent have gravitated to the Canary Islands for a tropical getaway, a group of eight islands with subtropical climate thanks to the influence of prevailing trade winds. Sun worshippers head to the eastern islands with desert-like landscapes and hikers are lured to the mountain peaks in the western group blessed with spectacular views. Colorful hillside villages, colonial architecture, and churches line winding streets where eateries serve plates of rustic and savory dishes with influences from Spain and Africa.

The islands are known for the striking landscapes that range from volcanic moonscapes and coastal dunes to forested regions with pine and laurel trees. Beach lovers find a colorful palette of sands ranging in golden, black, and white that cloak the mounds of dunes and rugged coastlines. Nature reigns on these islands, five of the eight have been declared Biosphere Reserves, the most extensive on Grand Canaria with several micro-climates and habitats that showcase canyons, mountain peaks, beaches, and forests. The archipelago has one the most valuable ecosystems in the world where 40% of the land is protected as natural space with four national parks that provide scenic waterfalls, networks of paths lined with ancient trees and volcanic craters, and geysers with spectacular views. The islands are a natural outdoor adventure waiting for discovery.