The Canary Islands are a group of beautiful islands located near the northwest coast of Africa, famous for their sunny beaches and busy resorts, however, there is much more to explore beyond these popular tourist spots. You can get a lot of stunning natural wonders, peaceful villages, and hidden places full of beauty and adventure.
If you love discovering such unique and new locations, here are some of the best hidden gems you must visit while travelling to the Canary Islands.
Best Viewpoints and Hiking Trails in the Canary Islands
Gran Canaria offers some of the best offbeat trails. In the centre of the island, there is a beautiful mountainous village known as Tejeda where you will see cacti, palm trees, and sand dunes down below. If you are a food lover, this place is well-known for its almond cakes, however, it’s a tough job to get there as you will have to go through some really twisty roads.
On the other hand, if you are a beach lover, Playa de las Conchas in Lanzarote is what you need. There is an endless stretch of golden sand all around with amazing sea views. While there, you can also climb the foothills of Montaña Bermeja to enjoy the amazing volcanic landscape or enjoy walking the shores at Arrieta, a traditional coastal village with plenty of amenities for visitors. As you stroll along the shores, you will see traditional fishermen doing their trade using historic methods.
In Tenerife, La Orotava is a town that has an amazing volcano landscape, being at the foot of Teide, not just the highest point in not just the islands, but in all of Spain. The town offers a lot of relaxation and historical sites, including Constitucion Plaza. Additionally, there are panoramic views from Mirador Humboldt, Casa Molina, La Casa de los Balcones, and the Plaza de San Francisco.
Unique Cultural and Historical Spots
Want to take part in celebrations and feel like enjoying festivals? You must go through El Hierro. It is the farthest southwest island and offers hotel and resort accommodations. There is a special festival of the Virgin, celebrated every four years, and a lot of people come from across the world to take part in it. It's also one of the popular islands for eco-tourism, and is a designated UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
However, if you want to enjoy more local experience, don't forget to visit Agüimes in the east of Gran Canaria. Its rustic and colourful nature will relax your mind and help you learn about their traditions. You will also see bronze statues and alleys in almost every street, and don't forget to go to Plaza del Rosario which is dominated by a prominent domed church.
A short drive from Agüimes, or the connecting parts that is Ingenio, will take you to Guayadeque Ravine. It is home to cave houses and some stunning views. A smooth road will take you to Montana de las Tierras, a small cave village on the Eastern Coast. If you want to enjoy the local food, you are lucky enough to reach this place, there are three special cave restaurants serving local cuisine. In fact, you can also enjoy the experience of staying in a unique cave on Airbnb.
Travel Tips for to Canary Islands Trip
If you are planning to travel to the Canary Islands, never forget to check for the best time to travel. Although, one of the special parts of visiting here is that the islands always have a mild climate. However, the best time to visit depends on your plans. Choosing the right island is also important. Each island has something unique and interesting. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are popular for their beaches and their cultural representation. Whereas, you will enjoy the volcanic landscape in Lanzarote.
Before booking your final tickets, try to get more information about each of the islands, By downloading a VPN, you can access travel blogs and reviews that might be restricted in your region. Also never forget to pack the essentials. Make sure you have comfortable shoes and light jackets if you plan to treat higher altitudes.
During your trip, you will find public transport everywhere you go. Most of the buses will connect major towns and tourist areas, however, renting a car is the best option to explore some hidden beaches, remote villages, and exciting scenic viewpoints.
Conclusion
The Canary Islands are not just about beaches but exploring beautiful landscapes, hidden villages, and its rich culture. There are a lot of other things that you can experience, starting with a hike through volcanic trails or visiting historic towns.
Each island has something unique and special to offer, amazing views of Tejeda and local festivals in El Hierro will make your trip more amazing. However, every trip requires proper planning, so make sure to plan your trip well, pack the essentials, and get ready to explore some of the best views of the Canary Islands.
