Which Canary Island is for you?

January 22, 2026January 22, 2026emilycotterhill1

by Scott Crowe, Villa Plus Contributor

The Canary Islands are a true all-year-round destination. In terms of value for money and travel time, they are hard to beat. Warmth, sunshine and relaxation are assured for a destination that’s a relatively short flight time from gloomier pastures over Northern Europe’s colder months.

Choosing which Canary Island to head to in particular can be a challenge, albeit a welcoming one! Each of these islands have their own brand of allure, so deciphering which one is best for you requires a degree of research.

That’s where we can help. In this guide, we’ll break down the unique appeal of each island to help you decide which of the Canaries is for you. Add in our Signature villas, alongside our game-changing Best price finder tool and planning your next Canary Islands holiday is easier than ever.

1. Tenerife

A Tenerife villa holiday offers the widest range of experiences in one place, with a relatively large population of nearly 1 million people. An island of contrasts, it’s a place where golden beaches sit alongside volcanic landscapes, lively resort promenades and traditional mountain villages. Consider an extended winter stay here, given the sheer variety on offer!

The best things to do in Tenerife

Playa Del Duque Beach, Tenerife — Playa del Duque Beach in Costa Adeje, Tenerife

Climb Mount Teide

Spain’s highest peak dominates the Tenerife landscape, creating a dramatic natural centrepiece that appeals to any budding explorer. Winter is a fantastic time to undertake part of this challenge, in the absence of the stifling summer heat. On a clear day, the views of the volcanic landscape and the surrounding Canary Islands are breathtaking.

Play a round of golf

You’ll be awash with golfing options in Tenerife, making it a great choice for a group golf holiday. Two courses in particular stand out, both within a convenient distance of our villas in the southwest of the island. Golf Las Américas and Golf Costa Adeje are sophisticated courses that cater for all ability levels and tie in perfectly with the stunning scenery.

The best places to stay in Tenerife

Costa Adeje

Hugging Tenerife’s western coastline, Costa Adeje is known for its relaxed atmosphere, high-quality beaches and excellent dining choices. Centred around some of the finest beaches in the Canary Islands, stretches of sand like Playa del Duque and Playa de Fañabé are worth a winter holiday alone.

Coastal walkways link all of the amenities, and with a range of our Villa Plus villas nearby, you need not worry about getting from A to B.

Stay at: Villa Atenas in Costa Adeje, just 1.2km from Playa de Fañabé Beach

Playa de Fanabe Beach, Tenerife — Playa de Fañabé Beach in Costa Adeje, Tenerife

Callao Salvaje

Known for its relaxed pace and scenic ocean views, Callao Salvaje is the ideal choice for a winter escape that puts peace and quiet at the top of the holiday wishes.

You’ll enjoy elevated views of the Atlantic Ocean from its centre, often stretching west to neighbouring La Gomera. The resort’s volcanic sand beach, Playa de Ajabo, sits neatly beneath the towering cliffs.

Stay at: Villa Bonita Salvaje in Callao Salvaje, just 500m from Playa de Ajabo Beach

Playa de Ajabo Beach in Callao Salvaje, Tenerife

Pick Tenerife for:

A mix of beaches, scenery and activities
Comfort with convenience
Plenty of choice in one destination

2. Lanzarote

Lanzarote’s landscape has been shaped by centuries of volcanic activity, making its scenery dramatic, striking and beautifully preserved. With a much smaller population of just over 150,000 people, there’s a distinct laid-back atmosphere for a villa holiday here.

The best things to do in Lanzarote

The protected landscape of La Geria, Lanzarote

Timanfaya National Park

The only National Park in Spain that’s entirely geological, Timanfaya perfectly represents the island’s volcanic foundations, being shaped by a series of eruptions in the 18th and 19th centuries. Expect to see rusty red colours stretching as far as the eye can see, a barren sight that feels otherworldly.

The area is still volcanically active too and highlighted by demonstrations from park rangers, who’ll show you how intense heat still rises from the ground, producing huge jets of steam.

Go wine tasting

A distinct experience shaped by centuries-old traditions, the island’s vineyards are set amongst black volcanic ash, each protected by a stone wall and set within a shallow pit. This unusual method shields the vineyards from the wind, creating wines found nowhere else in the world.

Head for a La Geria vineyard for a great day out and the chance to bring a bottle or two back to your villa.

The best places to stay in Lanzarote

Playa Blanca

Occupying the southernmost part of the island, Playa Blanca looks over at Fuerteventura to the south. Once a fishing village, it’s developed into a calm resort that’s one of Lanzarote’s most popular places to stay.

Its beaches, Playa Dorada, Playa Flamingo and Playa Blanca, offer calm waters that are ideal for swimming, even in the relatively milder winter. Stylish restaurants and boutique shops give the area a charming, upmarket feel.

Stay at: Villa Santana in Playa Blanca, just 300m from Playa Flamingo Beach

Playa Flamingo Beach in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote

Puerto del Carmen

A Puerto del Carmen holiday is one of the greatest antidotes to the winter blues. It’s Lanzarote’s most popular resort for good reason, with a long scenic coastline parallel to the famous Avenida de las Playas.

This promenade hosts everything needed for a great holiday, leading conveniently to the traditional Old Town and harbour area, a throwback to the area’s roots. Playa Grande is the stunning main beach with cliff faces to the west, with the vast stretch of sand at Playa de los Pocillos offering a quieter, refreshing alternative.

Stay at: Villa Pocillos in Puerto del Carmen, just 120m from Playa de los Pocillos Beach

Playa de los Pocillos Beach in Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote

Pick Lanzarote for:

Dramatic volcanic scenery
A calm, refined atmosphere
A villa holiday that blends culture, nature and relaxation

3. Fuerteventura

The closest of the Canaries to Africa, Fuerteventura is the island that feels most open. Its large area is home to only 120,000 people, giving it a slow rhythm that truly encourages visitors to switch off. This, combined with the fantastic Fuerteventura villas and beaches, makes it arguably the prettiest Canary Island.

The best things to do in Fuerteventura

Visit Corralejo Natural Park

Vast rolling sand dunes neighbour the northeast Fuerteventura coastline to create a beautiful natural sight in this protected area.

The landscape is perfect for scenic walks with plenty of space to admire the surroundings. Wonderfully open and remote, it personifies the relative sparsity of the island compared to its larger neighbours like Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

Try your hand at watersports

Fuerteventura’s long stretches of open coastline make it a haven for watersports. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced enthusiast, conditions are perfect for windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding and snorkelling.

Sailing, kite surfing and the quintessential holiday jet skiing are also immensely popular. There’s the infrastructure to match too, with equipment hire and tuition throughout the island. Corralejo is a great area to head to for all of these aqua adventures.

The best places to stay in Fuerteventura

Corralejo

Corralejo has the perfect blend of amenities and proximity to Fuerteventura’s most striking natural park attraction.

You’ll find everything you need for a perfect villa holiday here. There’s a mixture of beaches, bars and restaurants that lend themselves to the town’s beauty and casual charm. There are great connections north across the water to Lanzarote, too.

Stay at: Villa Bella Vista in Corralejo, just 20m from Popcorn Beach

Popcorn Beach, Fuerteventura — Popcorn Beach in Corralejo, Fuerteventura, famous for its white popcorn-like algae fossils!

Caleta de Fuste

Caleta de Fuste is in a fantastically convenient location close to the island’s airport. It’s made up of a curved bay that cuddles Playa del Castillo, a vast expanse of sand that forms one of Fuerteventura’s best beaches.

The resort’s compact centre has a great selection of restaurants, cafes and shops, and two of the Canary Islands’ finest golf courses are within touching distance. Fuerteventura Golf Club and Golf Club Salinas de Antigua attract players from around the world.

Stay at: Villa Maresia in Caleta de Fuste, just 1km from La Guirra Beach

La Guirra Beach, Fuerteventura — La Guirra Beach in Caleta de Fuste, Fuerteventura

Pick Fuerteventura for:

Outdoor adventures amongst untouched scenery
The slowest pace and a strong connection to nature
A true winter escape away from busy resorts

Why choose a villa for your next Canary Islands holiday?

Staying in a Canary Islands villa is the best way to experience Tenerife, Lanzarote or Fuerteventura. Our home-from-homes are in handpicked places throughout these sun-kissed islands.

Whatever time of year you intend to travel, by choosing Villa Plus, you’ll have a priceless private pool, generous living spaces to yourselves and all the amenities needed for an extended escape.

Our villas are versatile. Every year, we welcome:

Groups who want to spend quality time together without compromising comfort
Families who value space, privacy and flexibility
Couples looking for intimate and relaxed settings

Our best price finder: game-changing value at a snapshot

Our Best price finder does the hard work so you don’t have to, helping our holidaymakers quickly compare prices across different dates and destinations. You’ll be able to spot the best deals at a glance.

Whether you’re flexible on your travel dates or inspired to book a specific destination, our Best price finder makes it easier to:

Discover the best value weeks for your chosen place
Filter results by a range of different metrics
Book early and secure your ideal villa escape

You’ll come away with a villa holiday that’s perfectly tailored to how you want to relax. Use our Best price finder today and get the most out of your holiday budget, without compromising on quality.

Experience a warm festive Christmas in our winter villa destinations

December 17, 2025December 17, 2025emilycotterhill1

by Scott Crowe, Villa Plus Contributor

When the Northern European winter reaches its peak, it becomes incredibly tempting to escape the freezing temperatures and long, dark nights. That’s where we come in. We’ve got a whole host of warm destinations with a wide range of homely Villa Plus villas for the whole family to relax and unwind in over the festive season.

In this piece, we’ll take you through some of the warm Christmas destinations that will welcome you for a winter sun holiday at the most wonderful time of the year. Across these islands, Christmas isn’t just celebrated, it’s lived. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the local culture and spend some quality time together in our quality places to stay.

Why stay in a Villa Plus villa at Christmas?

Staying in a Villa Plus villa elevates your Christmas experience even further. Located conveniently close to the whole host of festive traditions and events, you’ll be living in a real home-from-home that will play the perfect host to your celebrations with the loved ones. Here’s why you should pick us for your next December holiday:

Kitchens for a culinary masterpiece

Whether you’re preparing a full festive feast based on the delicious dishes we’ve mentioned, or simply grazing on some snacks throughout the day, your villa kitchen will give you total flexibility.

Spacious settings for festive fun

There’s always somewhere to open presents, gather together for some Christmas games or enjoy some peace and quiet away from it all.

Heated private pools

A Christmas morning swim isn’t out of the question. Expect to spend a pleasant afternoon in the sun relaxing in the generous and private outdoor spaces our villas provide.

Privacy and comfort

Everything is taken care of before your arrival, so rather than fixed meal times and bustling corridors of hotels, everything can be done at your own pace so you can focus on making memories together.

Christmas in Madeira

Temperatures over the festive period

Madeira is typically mild and pleasant throughout December, with daytime temperatures reaching somewhere between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius.

Madeira Christmas traditions

Christmas in Madeira involves magical local customs that have been practiced for centuries. One of the most loved is ‘Missas do Parto’ (Childbirth Masses), a series of early-morning church gatherings in the nine days leading up to Christmas from 16-24 December. This is followed by the Missa do Gallo, a Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.

Another highlight is the 23rd December Market Night, an unmissable evening where Madeirans shop for last minute gifts amongst a feast of street music, carols and festive treats.

Events over the holiday period

Madeira’s capital, Funchal, is home to one of the best Christmas light displays in Europe, illuminating the Avenida Arriaga with a procession of colour that’s complete with festive stalls and live entertainment. There are also concerts held in the city, ranging from classical performances to traditional folk songs, held al fresco around the city’s Cathedral and public squares.

Consider extending your stay until New Year in Madeira. You’ll be rewarded with the world-famous Funchal Bay fireworks, a great way to round off the festive period.

Festive cuisine

Comforting Madeiran Christmas flavours are led by carne vinha d’alhos (pork marinated in wine and garlic), alongside favourites like espetada (beef skewers). On the sweet side, bolo do mel (honey cake infused with spices) is exquisite, along with Bolo Rei (King’s Cake) if you’re extending your holiday to early January.

And of course, no December holiday in Madeira is complete without a glass or two of the iconic Poncha, made from sugarcane rum, honey, sugar and orange or lemon juice. The drink served as the inspiration for the Brazilian Caipirinha.

Christmas in Tenerife

Temperatures over the festive period

You can expect pleasant, mild weather in Tenerife over the festive period, with daily high temperatures in the region of 21 to 23 degrees, a far cry from back home!

Tenerife Christmas traditions

Beléns define Tenerife over Christmas. These beautifully detailed nativity scenes go far beyond those of the typical biblical story. Entire landscapes are recreated in miniature form, complete with tiny fishermen, artisans and desert scenes. The town of La Orotava is a particular highlight, turning belén-spotting into a festive trail through its historic streets.

As Christmas Day approaches, families gather for a big dinner on Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) before attending Misa del Gallo (midnight mass), which is often followed by music in village squares.

Events over the holiday period

Open-air celebrations are the norm over Tenerife’s holiday period and include the famous Christmas Day Symphony Orchestra performance, packed with heart-warming classical music.

There are festive parades in Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje, with artisan markets popping up across the island through December too.

Festive cuisine

Tenerife’s access to the sea is celebrated in its Christmas culinary traditions. Cherne (wreckfish) is an immensely popular dish, served with classic Canarian potatoes, cabrito (young goat) and finished off with sweet almond-based treats like turrón.

There’s a huge emphasis on outdoor dining too, which adds an extra ingredient to these tasty dishes.

Christmas in Lanzarote

Temperatures over the festive period

You’ll be more than comfortable outside during the day in Lanzarote, with daily temperatures in the region of 17 to 21 degrees Celsius on average throughout December.

Lanzarote Christmas traditions

A product of its incredible geography, Lanzarote brings its landscape to life through its nativity scenes over the festive period. These are often built using volcanic rock and sand to reflect the dramatic scenery of the island.

A standout tradition is Los Ranchos, which involves folk-music groups dressed in traditional attire singing religious songs in village squares. This creates a magical atmosphere in the run up to the big day.

Events over the holiday period

You’ll find a range of markets throughout Lanzarote, epitomising the island’s slightly more laid back feel compared to its neighbours.

Towns like Arrecife and Teguise sprinkle these markets with children’s workshops, live music and street performances. Coastal promenades are lined with lights, and there are a range of live nativity productions too.

Festive cuisine

Hearty meals are the order of Christmas Day in Lanzarote, led by sancocho canario (salted fish stew). Local seafood is served with locally grown sweet potatoes to create a festive feast.

Seasonal sweets like roscos de anís (aniseed doughnuts) and mantecados (shortbread cookies) go down a treat with the island’s famous volcanic wines.

Christmas in Fuerteventura

Temperatures over the festive period

Expect average daytime temperatures of 19 to 22 degrees celsius during a December stay in Fuerteventura, making outdoor Christmas experiences the norm for islanders and visitors alike.

Fuerteventura Christmas traditions

The island leans into its community spirit over the festive period, crafting bespoke nativity scenes, decorating plazas with lights and creating handmade ornaments.

Corralejo Christmas market is the place to be in the build up, and on Christmas Day itself, many head to the beach for a festive dip.

Events

Fuerteventura’s very own Tabajoste group hosts an unmissable Christmas concert that has been running for over 20 years and has become a staple of the festive build up on the island.

If you plan on extending your stay into January, the Three Kings parades on 6 January are an unforgettable cultural experience. Camels, dancers, colourful floats and music fill the streets as sweets are tossed to children. Corralejo and Puerto del Rosario host two of the liveliest celebrations.

Festive cuisine

Queso con almendras (cheese with almonds) and truchas (sweet potato pastries) are just a couple of the delicious festive Fuerteventuran snacks to try.

The main festive meal is a nod to the island’s fresh seafood, featuring prawns with pink sauce (gambas con salsa rosa), similar to a prawn cocktail dish in the UK.

Ready to swap frost for festive sunshine? Explore our winter villa destinations and book your Christmas escape today.

3 reasons to book a holiday villa in the Canary Islands this year

March 12, 2021March 12, 2021chiracshah

The Canary Islands lie in the Atlantic Ocean off North Africa’s west coast. Basking in warm sunny weather all year round, millions flock to this popular Spanish archipelago annually – and it’s not hard to see why. Here are three reasons to book a villa holiday to Lanzarote, Fuerteventura or Tenerife in 2021:

Incredible volcanic landscapes

The Canary Islands are volcanic in origin, which means they’re full of spectacular and intriguing landscapes to explore.

Lanzarote is home to the lunar-like Timanfaya National Park, formed by huge 18^th century eruptions. Here you’ll find jaw-dropping geological phenomena like craters, tunnels and geysers. And you can even ride around on a camel!

Fuerteventura boasts a string of 50,000-year-old volcanoes to the south west of Corralejo. One of the best preserved is Calderon Hondo with its impressive 70-metre deep crater. It’s an easy walk along well-marked paths to the top, where you’ll be treated with great views of other volcanoes and the island’s north.

Last but not least, in Tenerife you’ll discover magnificent Mount Teide – the highest peak in the Canaries and one of the world’s largest volcanoes. The rewarding hike to the summit takes around 5 hours, but the less energetic or patient can hop in a cable car and enjoy the stunning vistas within 8 minutes.

Stunning sandy beaches

One of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Lanzarote is Papagayo Beach, on the island’s southern tip. Here you can feel fine white sand between your toes and marvel at the underwater world by snorkelling in the turquoise seas.

To the north of Fuerteventura is the Grandes Playas de Corralejo (Corralejo’s Big Beaches), a 9 kilometre stretch of heavenly golden sands flanked by the largest dunes in the Canary Islands. What’s more, you can view the islands of Lanzarote and Los Lobos from the shoreline.

Finally, Tenerife offers Playa del Duque in the popular resort of Costa Adeje on the south west coast. This top-notch Blue Flag beach is situated in a small bay, with white sands, crystal clear water and a lovely seafront promenade.

Fun outdoor adventures

If sunbathing all day long isn’t your thing, there’s no shortage of fantastic activities to keep you active and entertained in the Canary Islands.

In Lanzarote, you can saddle up and enjoy a horse ride through the island’s interior and coastal areas. Lanzarote A Caballo offers excursions catering for the whole family, from total novices to seasoned pros.

For those who want to practise their swing, Fuerteventura is the perfect place to do so. Fuerteventura Golf Club, the island’s first 18-hole golf course, boasts beautiful ocean views, lakes, palm trees, streams and exceptionally well-kept lawns.

Want to get up close and personal with marine life? Tenerife has a network of dive centres where you can do just that. The calm warm waters are great for first timers, and there are even sunken ships to explore!

Don’t miss out on your dream holiday. Check out our great range of villas in the Canary Islands now.

Activity holidays in Canary Islands for villa lovers

February 8, 2018January 9, 2019

The Canary Islands are simply filled with excitement and adventure. Located off Africa’s north-western coast, this Spanish archipelago packs in diverse landscapes perfect for thrill seekers.

Alongside top-tier weather, the island comprises picturesque beaches ideal for water sports, like surfing and jet skiing. When you stay in a property near the coastline you’re able to really make the most of the scenery on offer, so without further ado, here’s why activity holidays in Canary Islands are so well suited to villa lovers. Let’s start with the largest island of the archipelago, Tenerife…

Tenerife

There are some otherworldly landscapes just waiting to be explored in Tenerife, so why not hire a car to help uncover the island’s more distant hotspots? Staying in a villa means you can pack bigger pack lunches – that way you’ll have all the more energy for when you’re exploring.

Activity lovers can delve into the Anaga rainforest and up into the Anaga mountains. Alternatively, venture to Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain, and the surrounding Teide National Park. Take the cable car to the upper station and marvel over the panoramic views of Tenerife, or wander through the park at your own pace. Once you’re there, enjoy a few pre-made sandwiches and replenish for the trip back down.

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is packed with inspiring cycling routes. Get ready to brave big climbs – your efforts will be rewarded with stunning backdrops at their summit. This is where holiday rentals come into their own, allowing you to keep your beloved bicycle inside each night and get it ready for the coming day’s ride.

Head to the northern tip of the island and cycle amongst pretty towns like Corralejo and La Oliva. As well as dreamy strips of sand, you’ll encounter desert roads worthy of a Wild West film. For off-road delights, cycle to the rugged Jandia Natural Park. Otherwise, Lobos Island, a small islet north of Fuerteventura, is worth visiting if you fancy a spot of snorkelling or scuba diving.

Lanzarote

Similar to the other Canary Islands, Lanzarote is full of plenty of activities for many different preferences. Beat the crowds at the restaurants and prepare a delicious packed lunch beforehand so you can stay at places for longer.

First up, get your snorkels at the ready and dive beneath the ocean to see the Museo Atlántico. Situated 12 metres underwater, it’s made up of a collection of submerged sculptures which you can swim around at your leisure.

When you’re back above sea level, take a walk around the renowned Timanfaya National Park. You’ll come across geyser displays and a restaurant that uses geothermal heat from a volcano to cook your food! You can explore the park by foot, but if you’re in search of a truly memorable day out, hire a camel to take you around. Not only will this save you the effort of walking, it’ll make for a few unbeatable photo opportunities!

Activity holidays in the Canary Island guarantee many things – scenery, thrills and unrivalled experiences being but three of them. With that all in mind, take a look at some holiday rentals across the archipelago.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

3 holiday breakfast ideas for a Tenerife self-catering getaway

October 5, 2017January 9, 2019

The Canary island of Tenerife is synonymous with tremendous views made for feasting upon. Next time you’re visiting this beguiling part of the world, why not pair such scenery with a mouth-watering breakfast that would make the locals proud? On a self-catering getaway, you can bulk buy local ingredients, develop new cooking skills and then immerse yourself in the island’s cuisine.

Experiencing regional delicacies is a sure-fire way to soak up a destination’s culture. Not only that, you’ll save yourself some euros to spend on Tenerife’s wealth of attractions. Go on, give those taste buds a tickle and make yourself one of these three tasty holiday breakfast ideas.

Churros

Image by subherwal, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Imagine you’re enjoying a villa holiday in Tenerife with the rolling hills on one side and tranquil beaches on the other. As you turn your head, the sun gently rises over the colossal Teide National Park. Now’s the perfect time to ditch the typical British toast and whip up some churros – a traditional Spanish delicacy similar to a doughnut.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill fairground snacks, far from it. It’s not uncommon for natives here to have them for breakfast – now you can too. Making your own is both fun and easy to do. On top of that, you’ll be left with plenty of ingredients leftover to make them all over again.

All you need for this is some butter, plain flour, baking powder and sunflower oil. For dipping, make your own chocolate sauce with some dark chocolate and cream to kickstart your day in a succulent manner. Spice this breakfast up with a bit of nutmeg or vanilla extract. Kick back and get stuck into your churros with a barraquito – a famous regional coffee to make you feel truly Canarian.

Canarian fruit salad

Image by Stephen Luke, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Tenerife is a tropical island so the supermarket shelves here are often lined with fresh fruits. For the ultimate Canarian fruit salad, grab some pineapples, watermelon, bananas, mangoes, kiwis and custard apples. You’ll also need some locally produced yogurt and honey. Whip it all together, then voila – you’ve got a healthy breakfast that is almost as exotic as the island itself.

Honey production on Tenerife is actually a speciality. The island even has its own honey museum, La Casa de La Miel, or The House of Honey, that will show you exactly why Tenerife’s honey so highly regarded, making it the perfect accompaniment to your fruit salad.

Gofio with hot milk and sugar

Image by Marius Brede, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Gofio is one of Tenerife’s much-loved specialities. It dates back hundreds and hundreds of years to the island’s original inhabitants, the Guanches. Made from finely milled, ground and toasted cereal grains, this local delicacy is also a highly nutritious flour. Mix it with a few teaspoons of it with yoghurt to give you for a few extra vitamins and energy for the day.

Add two teaspoons of gofio to a glass of hot milk with a spoonful of sugar or honey. It is a quick, simple and filling breakfast to make, helping you to live like a local and teeing you off for a day of discovery.

Hungry? Turn your food fantasies into a reality and look at some Villa Plus offerings on the island.

By Imogen Bishop, a part time travel writer, part time restaurant critic, and full-time mum. She has an affinity for Mediterranean cuisine and can usually be found in the kitchen with a bottle of olive oil in hand.

Why you should choose a holiday let next time you go to Tenerife

August 21, 2017January 9, 2019

The enviable climate and endless beaches of the Canary Islands have been attracting visitors for years. Resorts in Tenerife offer one of the most alluring holiday options, promising package holiday comfort and convenience all year round. But if you fancy freedom, independence, and flexibility, you should consider a holiday rental on your next trip to Tenerife.

Outside of the boundaries of a hotel or resort, you are more likely to explore further and experience this well-trodden island from a whole new perspective. Still need more convincing? Here are some reasons why self-catering accommodation is a fantastic option:

Image by jonathanfh, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

You don’t have to skimp on luxury

Finding a hotel to fit your budget and needs often means making sacrifices, because no resort has it all. With holiday lets, you’ll have a wealth of options at your fingertips, and you’ll find luxury to rival even the best hotels in Tenerife.

Whether you want a villa with a pool, an apartment with a seafront balcony, or a terrace nestled in the mountaintops, there will be something for you. In your own private space, you can unwind and relax without worrying about loud neighbours or noisy crowds.

Image by jonathanfh, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

You can set yourself up for an adventure

This Canary Island is so much more than a sunbathing destination. With routes ranging from scenic roads to mountain tracks, cycling in Tenerife is a great way to get more active on your holiday. If you’d rather stay on your own two feet, the island offers superb hiking opportunities, not least the chance to climb Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain.

By staying in a holiday rental, you won’t be restricted by hotel meal times and activity schedules. You can come and go as you please, making it the perfect option if you’ll be spending long days exploring on foot or by bike.

Choose from a wider range of locations

If you want to stay close to the bustling resorts where restaurants, bars, and fun activities await, you can. You’ll find lots of self-catering accommodation options in popular areas, such as the lively Playa de las Americas. For a more upmarket experience, you could choose the nearby Costa Adeje.

Alternatively, holiday rentals also offer you the option of choosing a location more off the beaten track. You might find your perfect secluded beach villa, or a house in a quaint Canary village.

Tailor your holiday to suit your group

Travelling to Tenerife with a group of friends? With the flexibility to choose exactly how many rooms and beds you want, without breaking the budget, you can enjoy comfort that you won’t find in a tiny hotel room. Or, if you’re going on a family trip, you can look for a holiday let with a private garden for the kids to play in.

Accommodation rentals are also a great choice for a couples holiday. You’ll have privacy and your own kitchen to cook in, which is perfect if you feel like swapping a night out for a romantic meal at home.

By Arianne Fabrice, a travel journalist who specialises in the popular resort destinations in and around Europe. Having worked for some of Paris’ premium travel mags, she’s recently moved into English-language publications.

Guide to Tenerife’s Best Attractions

July 21, 2017January 9, 2019

There is much more to Tenerife than the popular resort towns of Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos. These tourist hubs do offer a great holiday, but visitors that don’t tread far beyond them are missing out on the wonders of this beguiling island.

Image by jaumescar, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

Tenerife boasts diverse landscapes, and a rich and vibrant island culture all of its own. Enjoy the comforts of your luxury self-catering villa – you’re on holiday after all! Yet if you venture a little further afield, you’ll be amazed at what you’ll find. To help you put together an itinerary for your Tenerife holiday, here are some of its best tourist attractions.

Teide National Park

Tenerife’s crown jewel is the huge Teide National Park. It’s home to Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain, alongside hiking trails allowing you to explore this otherworldly landscape. Complete with lava flows and massive craters, it’s the closest experience you’ll get to walking on another planet. If you fancy something a little different, you can even tour the park by camel! Once you’ve done that, take a cable car up to near the top and marvel at the island’s views.

Image by Juan Carlos!, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

Los Gigantes

Some of Tenerife’s most famous natural wonders are the Los Gigantes cliffs. These towering basalt rock faces stretch 500 metres above sea level, and offer a remarkable view. The popular town of Los Gigantes, and its many bars and cafes, provide the perfect focal point for the cliffs. Here you can enjoy a drink, a bite to eat, and unforgettable scenery.

Siam Park

For those travelling with families Siam Park is a must-see attraction. It’s the island’s largest waterpark, and has activities for children – and adults – of all ages. With its Thai theme and thrilling waterslides, there are few better ways to spend a day with the kids, no matter how old they are.

Adrenalin junkies can enjoy the twists and dips of the Tower of Power, whilst for the little ones there’s the Sawasdee Children’s Zone. The only problem you’ll have here is that they’ll want to come back tomorrow!

Submarine Safari

Like the rest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife’s surrounding waters are rich in biodiversity. Taking a dip with your snorkel is one way of experiencing it, but the best way is undoubtedly by submarine. Submarine Safari offers guided tours below the waves in a spacious and comfortable environment. You’ll experience Tenerife’s marine ecosystem up close – and get a chance to learn about it!

If this isn’t enough for you, why not take a whale watching trip? Pilot whales are common here, and to top it off you’ll often see dolphins skimming above the waves surrounding the boat.

There’s a whole world of things to do and see on Tenerife. Whether discovering the Atlantic depths, or braving waterslides, no holiday to the island would be complete without experiencing at least a little adventure. With that in mind, maybe it’s time to start looking for that perfect holiday rental on the island!

Hidden gems: Picturesque spots in Tenerife off the beaten track

December 23, 2016January 9, 2019

Thousands of tourists visit Tenerife every year to bask in the sunshine, laze on the beautiful beaches, admire the dramatic scenery, make the most of holiday rentals and explore the bustling resort towns. For an island destination that has given so much pleasure to so many holidaymakers over the past few decades, could there really be any hidden gems left to discover? Well, you may be surprised…

Despite being relatively compact, Tenerife is actually the biggest of the Canary Islands, so it has no shortage of things to see. With a vibrant island culture tucked ever so slightly away from the tourist resorts, the ‘real Tenerife’ is always close by. You just need to know where to look. So, on your next self-catering trip to the island of eternal spring, visit these hidden gems and experience an authentic slice of Tenerife life beyond the throngs of Playa de la Americas and Los Cristianos.

Image by Miguel. (respenda), used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Blending history and beauty, it’s no surprise that Tenerife’s former capital, La Laguna, has often been referred to as the island’s most scenic town. A colonial-era town dating back to the Spanish conquest of the Canary Islands, the historic centre also acted as a blueprint for the subsequent Spanish settlements in the New World. This makes La Laguna not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also a fascinating place to wander.

The pastel-coloured buildings, winding streets and distinctly Canarian charm make La Laguna’s old town feel a world away from the busy beaches of the coast. As a small city of more than 150,000 people, to call it ‘hidden’ is a stretch, but, regrettably, only a few holidaymakers venture to the town. That doesn’t have to include you, fortunately, so make sure you include a trip to La Laguna on your holiday itinerary.

Image by BrainMaY, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY SA 2.0)

Taganana

The towering Mount Teide (Spain’s highest mountain) might dominate many of the views on Tenerife, but it’s the northern Anaga Mountains that may be the island’s finest. They certainly boast the finest routes for hiking. One of the best spots to take in the majesty of this mountain range is by trekking to the village of Tagana. The definition of a hidden gem, this tiny settlement gifts you with a jaw-dropping location amidst the mountains and rocky outcrops. Rarely visited by tourists, you can soak up a taste of laidback Canarian life in amongst the clouds.

La Orotava

The name La Orotava refers to both the charming town and wider valley that share its name. Home at different times to banana and sugar plantations as well as vineyards, it has long been one of the archipelago’s wealthiest towns thanks to the bountiful land. Luckily for visitors to the island, this prosperity resulted in the creation one of Tenerife’s most picturesque towns.

With delightfully cobbled streets, this 17^th-century settlement boasts some fine religious buildings, such as the Iglesia de la Concepción and the Iglesia de San Agustín. The wider landscape offers just as endearing an experience, with the fertile La Orotava Valley providing a marked contrast to the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of other parts of the island. A gentle trek through the local pine forest is a captivating way to get close to nature as you walk through the canary pine forests, ancient volcanic flows and steep ravines.

Garachico

You won’t find a beach at Garachico, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take a dip in the sea. The town is home to the most unusual place to take a swim on the island – the Garachico rock pools. These take the form of natural volcanic rock pools that were created by an eruption centuries ago and have been adapted into an open air natural swimming pool. What better way to experience the balmy waters of the mid Atlantic?

A former history graduate, Ciaran Brooks’ love for old stories has led him around the world. A self-confessed adventurer, he fell into travel writing after his blog chronicling his year in Thailand was picked up by a national paper.

By Ciaran Brooks