Which is the best Canary Island?

Tenerife – Best Canary Island for nightlife

For those seeking a sunny beach holiday, Tenerife's golden stretches of sand will not disappoint. Neither will its frenetic nightlife in Playa de las Americas, which has been attracting hardcore clubbers for decades.

But, journey inland and you'll come across Teide National Park showcasing the island’s snow-capped centrepiece, Mount Teide – the third largest volcano in the world.

Surprisingly, the best time to visit is in late February/early March when the capital Santa Cruz throws the biggest Carnival celebration after Rio De Janeiro.

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Gran Canaria – Best Canary Island for hiking

As well as having great nightlife, Gran Canaria's biggest city, Las Palmas, boasts must-see historical gems like the 15th-century Cathedral of Santa Ana and the museum Casa De Colon, where Christopher Columbus stayed before his first voyage to America.

The diverse island also features stunning beaches, massive sand dunes and mountains covered in pine forests – perfect for hiking.

Check out our holidays to Gran Canaria

Did you know?

Although lots of people think that the Canary Islands are named after bright-yellow birds, the name is actually derived from the Latin word for dog – canis. But, there are a couple of theories as to what the Ancient Romans were trying to describe after landing here. It was either the now-extinct seals they called 'sea-dogs' or the Guanches, the Canary Islands' aboriginal people who were especially fond of their four-legged friends.

Lanzarote – Best Canary Island for families

Centuries of volcanic activity have transformed Lanzarote's landscape into a moon-like vista with charred sands and rocky outcrops. What's more, a closer look reveals pretty whitewashed towns and striking modern art. There's plenty to do for families too, including trips to Ranchos Texas Park, Lanzarote's biggest theme park.

 Check out our holidays to Lanzarote

Fuerteventura – Best Canary Island for beaches

Every July on Fuerteventura's south coast, watersports fans flock to Playa de Sotavento which becomes a playground for kite surfing, windsailing and diving. If you're a newbie, you can take a lesson or two.

You might not know it, but Fuerteventura is also known for its goats. In fact, the animals outnumber people on the island, and the cheese made from their milk is delicious.

Check out our holidays to Fuerteventura

La Gomera – Best Canary Island for authenticity

For a taste of authentic Canarian cuisine, try the restaurants in La Gomera's capital San Sebastián. Many specialise in ‘Potaje De Berros’, a watercress soup served on wooden plates. Leave room for a plate of ‘Papas Arrugadas’ – boiled potatoes drizzled with Mojo, a fiery pepper sauce.

Visitors to La Gomera often report hearing loud whistling which echoes around the ravines. Believe it or not, but this is actually a type of native language called ‘el silbo’, which villagers invented to communicate with each other over the hills. Incredibly, it can sometimes be heard up to seven kilometres away.

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La Palma – Best Canary Island for snorkelling

The wild island of La Palma feels like one big nature reserve, and is rightly famed for its wildlife – making a visit to the aptly-named Enchanted Forest a must.

One of the quietest of the Canaries, La Palma is a peaceful holiday choice for those who favour low-key tourism and natural beauty over the glitz and glamour of its neighbouring islands. We’re talking intimate tapas restaurants rather than big bars and clubs.

When it comes to beaches, La Palma’s offering is of the black-sand variety – but they still have plenty of Blue Flags, as well as clear water that’s perfect for snorkelling. And the sunsets are show-stopping.

Check out our holidays to La Palma

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