With a warm climate year-round and captivating landscape of mountains, forest and coast, the Canary Islands prove particularly appealing in the winter months. Pay a visit to the islands at this time to make the most of their outdoor lifestyle.
Dolphin and Whale Watching
Set out from Tenerife’s coast on a luxury sailing yacht to encounter pilot whales and dolphins off the island’s southern shores, stopping to swim and snorkel for possible turtle sightings. Charter the Pecazul Private 6H yacht, Opera 6H or Sunseeker Portofino 46 from Tenerife Sailing Charters for a six-hour trip complete with cava and a bite to eat.
Stargazing
With three internationally recognized Starlight Reserves, the Canary Islands are celebrated for their especially clear and dark skies making stargazing particularly rewarding here. You can clearly see the constellations from each of the islands but Tenerife and La Palma are where the three international astronomy observatories can be found. Guided tours of the observatories can be arranged and stargazing viewpoints are dotted across the volcanic islands. Volcano Teide offers stargazing experiences in the national park that’s home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide.
World-Class Golf
Home to some of the best golfing in Europe, with professional courses designed by world champions such as José María Olazábal and Severiano Ballesteros, the Canary Islands draw in keen golfers year-round. As well as having the ideal climate for being out on the greens throughout the winter months, the courses are designed to embrace the surrounding environment providing a spectacular backdrop for each round.
Sublime Shores
With each island fringed by long stretches of sandy coastline and hidden bays, the islands are home to as many as 500 beaches. The most celebrated include the white sand La Concha beach on Fuerteventura, the golden Famara beach on Lanzarote and Puerto Naos black sand beach on La Palma.
Hiking Trails
Some of the best hiking in the Canary Islands can be found in Teide National Park on Tenerife. The unique volcanic landscape can be explored by setting out on any one of its 30 hiking trails, some of which lead hikers up to the peak of Mount Teide. Find out more by going over to volcanoteide.com.
More inspiration on winter escapes to the Canary Islands can be found at hellocanaryislands.com.