Κανάριους Νήσους

This sub-tropical oasis is the ideal place to relax. With its tranquil beaches of volcanic sand, youll find it remarkably easy to let the time just slip away. Year-round sunshine and the option to visit the main resort area of Playa del Ingles on the south coast or the quieter Veguetta make Las Palmas the ideal destination, whatever your frame of mind. In Veguetta, the Christopher Columbus Museum provides an interesting diversion, while above the city the Bandama Crater reveals the islands volcanic past. With tranquil beaches of volcanic sand, you can combine a leisurely stroll to view the Portuguese-influenced architecture with a few hours sunbathing to take it all in.

With the added attraction of a lunar landscape nearby created by volcanic activity, the capital of Lanzarote is an alluring destination to explore, experience and enjoy. From the stunning scenery of the Timanfaya (Fire Mountain) National Park to delightful beaches and quaint whitewashed houses with luminescent green shutters, Arrecife offers something for every visitor. After marvelling at the magnificent array of purple, blue and orange colours in the park, you can sample a dish in the restaurant where the meat is barbecued over the heat of the volcanic crater that gave the park its name. Back in the town of Puerto Naos, the Castillo San Jose overlooking the harbour features a modern art collection and another restaurant looking out over sea, not to mention a shopping centre to browse through.

Fuerteventura is the Canary Island of choice for beach connoisseurs. Its coastline morphs from the 10 kilometre-long blonde sweep in the Parque Natural de las Dunas to the wind-whipped sands in Playa de Sotavento, which hosts the Windsurfing World Championships every year. Away from the coast, the island’s interior is blanketed with lava fields, euphorbia valleys and clock-stopped villages.

Madeira is more than sweet wine. Its an excuse to enjoy fine beaches, explore beautiful gardens and discover why Funchal is called the Pearl of the Ocean. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing stroll along the promenade, visit the traditional and colourful flower market in the centre of Funchal, or taste the lovely wine that takes the islands name, Madeira has it all and more. Rising from the sea to the mountainside, the capital, Funchal, is a gardeners paradise with Birds of Paradise flowers, banana plantations, farms and vineyards everywhere. If you go shopping, dont miss the Se, the famous 16th century cathedral. If you have time visit Camacha, east of Funchal, known as the centre of Madeiras willow craft, and the hillside town of Monte which you can reach via a breathtaking cable car ride.

Forget its size. For a small island, La Palma boasts lots to do and more than its share of sights to see, including the largest volcanic crater in the world. Peaceful and tranquil, dozens of traditional old wooden houses with balustraded balconies lining the streets, Santa Cruz de la Palma is a typical Canarian town. All of which makes it the perfect place to stroll and relax. Look out in particular for the asone republica of Columbus ship, the Santa Maria, opposite the seafront, and the beautiful Basilica of Our Lady of the Snows. And if theres time, take a trip to La Caldera. 9km wide and 28km around its edge, it will change your view of volcanoes because the vast crater is now filled with fragrant Canary pines.