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Where |
A group of volcanic islands in the Atlantic ocean, off the northwest coast of North Africa. The seven main islands are Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, Tenerife, La Palma, Gomera, Hierra. |
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When |
Because the waters of the Atlantic are rather cool here because of the cold Canaries current, the summer temperatures are rarely uncomfortably hot, while winters are mild. The highest peak (on Tenerife) is snow-covered year-round. Some fog and cloud may occur in the summer months, which are usually dry and sunny. The northern shores of the islands are more exposed to the predominant northeast trade winds, and can be wetter than the sheltered southern coasts. Daily sunshine hours range from an average of six in winter to as many as eleven in the summer months. |
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Why |
Each of the islands is quite different and the group, as a whole, is historically and geographically fascinating. Gran Canaria has good resorts and the sand dunes of Maspolomas are not to be missed (you can even take a camel ride here). Fuerteventura is a quieter island with sandy beaches and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Lanzarote has many natural wonders with the volcanic activity having sculptured fantastic, lunar beauty. The most amazing of these sites is the Timanfaya National Park. Western Islands: La Palma, has the beautiful national park Caldera de Taburiente at the center of the island with other attractions being the Spanish Colonial architecture of the chief town, Santa Cruz de la Palma. La Gomeras' Garajony National Park is the main attraction with a dense laurel forest. El Hierro is a sparsely populated island with a rugged landscape. Tenerife contains the highest peak in Spain, the volcano Teide. Surrounding the volcanic crater is the Teide National Park containing varied plant life and landscape. In addition to the natural beauty, Tenerife offers a number of very pleasant resort areas. |
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Accommodation |
We offer small hotels on Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Santa Cruz, Tenerife and Fuerteventura and the Parador as La Gomera. |
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