Canary Islands: A picture perfect blend of Spain & Africa

Located close to the northern coast of Africa, the Canary Islands are an archipelago consisting of seven different islands. The islands are beautiful destinations, thanks to their 22ºC average year-round temperature, their beaches and incredible variety of natural landscapes, and they each offer a wealth of sightseeing experiences for the visitor.

No matter which one of the 7 islands you visit, you will find a wealth of things to do at your fingertips. Their beaches, their volcanic nature, their energetic and friendly lifestyle will make you want to visit time and time again. If you’ve grown tired of the same types of holidays or particular holiday hot spots then the Canary Islands are a must-visit destination!

The following is a list of the top sightseeing targets to consider if you make a trip to any of the Canary Islands:

Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote

Timanfaya National Park is a charming nature reserve completely made of volcanic soil in Lanzarote. Shaped by devastating volcanic outbreaks in the 18th century, the unreal scenery of Timanfaya is out of this world. By visiting the park, you will witness remarkable craters, lava sculptures, and volcanic cones in an intense display of colours from dark red to purplish black.

Because of Lanzarote’s dry conditions, vegetation there grows slowly therefore very little has changed over the last 300 years, meaning you can appreciate the raw beauty of the landscape. In fact, the park is named after the active volcano; Timanfaya Volcano.

Maspalomas Sand Dunes , Gran Canaria

The Dunes of Maspalomas in Gran Canaria are a remarkable 4km field of sand, situated in between the resorts of Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, and deserves a place on every visitor's itinerary.

The dunes are protected by a nature reserve but can still be accessed by tourists to take part in a variety of activities including horse and camel riding. It is recommended that each visitor keeps their flip flops on as the sand can become scorching, even during the winter period.

Certain areas within the dunes are nominated as naturist zones and nude sunbathing is allowed within these areas. Behind the dunes, there is also the Maspalomas golf course which is the largest course on the island. The Maspalomas sand dunes can also be reached on foot from Playa del Ingles and Meloneras resorts.

Island of Lobos, Fuerteventura

For those holidaymakers who find the hustle and bustle of everyday life on Fuerteventura too much, there is always a tranquil sanctuary - Lobos. Just a short boat trip from Corralejo you will find the Nature Reserve of Lobos – a peaceful setting, with crystalline waters that will undoubtedly take your breath away.

The island is small enough to be walked round in a few hours, but large enough for you to be able to feel that you are the only person on the island. There is also the chance to spot a variety of flora and birds not to be found anywhere else on the planet. Interestingly the name of the island came from the large population of Monk Seals that once lived there, however they are all but extinct from the island now after they were mass hunted.