Things to Do in Canary Islands

The Canary Islands drift off the coast of Morocco but belong to Spain, creating this fascinating cultural blend that you won't find anywhere else. Seven main islands make up the archipelago, each with its own personality - from the lunar landscapes of Lanzarote to the pine forests of La Palma, from the massive sand dunes of Gran Canaria to the dramatic cliffs of Tenerife. The year-round subtropical climate means you're likely to find good weather whenever you visit, though each island has its own microclimates that can shift dramatically as you drive from coast to mountains. What makes the Canary Islands genuinely compelling is how they manage to feel both thoroughly Spanish and distinctly African, with their own Guanche heritage woven throughout. You'll find proper Spanish tapas bars next to restaurants serving gofio (a local grain that's been a staple here for centuries), and volcanic wine regions that produce bottles you simply can't get anywhere else. The tourism infrastructure is well-developed without feeling overly commercialized in most areas, and the locals - Canarios - tend to be refreshingly laid-back even by Spanish standards.

Canarian cuisine blends Spanish, African, and Latin American influences in ways that actually work. Papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce appear on every menu for good reason - the local potatoes are genuinely different, and mojo verde and rojo are addictive. Fresh fish is excellent and reasonably priced, often grilled simply and served with gofio. Local wines, particularly from Lanzarote's volcanic soils, are surprisingly good and pair well with the seafood. You'll find everything from traditional guachinches (family-run restaurants) serving home-style cooking to upscale restaurants putting modern spins on local ingredients. Don't miss the local cheeses, especially from La Palma and Fuerteventura.

The Canary Islands maintain pleasant temperatures year-round, but winter (November through March) tends to be ideal - warm enough for hiking and sightseeing without the intense summer heat. Summer brings higher temperatures and more crowds, particularly July and August when mainland Europeans take their holidays. Spring and fall offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds. That said, each island has its own microclimate - the northern shores tend to be greener and cloudier, while southern coasts stay sunnier and drier. Trade winds provide natural air conditioning but can be strong enough to affect ferry schedules and outdoor activities.