Canary Islands: Where Surprises Lurk Behind Every Volcano and Wave
- Le Monocle Voyageur
- Feb 4
- 5 min read
Imagine a place where the Atlantic seems to unravel its secrets at every turn—where volcanic landscapes meet golden beaches, where whimsical towns are framed by lush, undulating hills, and where the promise of an unforgettable adventure is always just around the corner.
The Canary Islands are much more than just a sun-soaked paradise. This archipelago is an intricate blend of fierce beauty, uncommon culture, and otherworldly landscapes that challenge all preconceived notions of an island getaway. It’s not just a destination; it’s a place that invites you to dive deeper, escape the obvious, and discover the unexpected.
Here’s the secret: the Canaries are disguised gems for the curious traveller.
From hidden beaches to volcanic adventures, these islands, though perched at the edge of Europe, stand apart from the typical vacation spots.
Get ready to reframe what you thought you knew about the perfect getaway.
Welcome to the Canary Islands, where the ordinary is always, well, just a bit more extraordinary.
Where to Stay: Luxury, Mystery, and the Unseen
1. Hotel Botanico & The Oriental Spa Garden (Tenerife) – In the heart of the dramatic landscape of Tenerife, this legendary luxury hotel is more than just a place to rest. Hotel Botanico feels like a sanctuary for the senses. Exotic gardens, rooms that open to panoramic views of the mountains, and an award-winning spa make this a must-visit. A haven for those who want to stay enveloped in natural beauty and peaceful luxury.
Address: Avda. Richard J. Yeoward, 1, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Spain
Website: Hotel Botanico
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Abama (Tenerife) – A stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Abama offers something out of a dream. It’s perched on a hillside with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, featuring a nine-hole golf course, Michelin-starred restaurants, and lush gardens that feel almost otherworldly. With its secluded private beach, this resort is the epitome of indulgence, forging memories that stay with you long after you’ve left.
Address: Carretera de Las Solanas, s/n, 38687 Guía de Isora, Tenerife, Spain
Website: The Ritz-Carlton, Abama
3. Gran Hotel Bahía del Duque (Tenerife) – Think of this hotel as the epitome of coastal elegance, where neo-colonial architecture meets cutting-edge service. A collection of villas, suites, and rooms carved out of volcanic rock, combined with extraordinary facilities including a 14,000 square meter spa and an infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Each corner feels like a whisper of nostalgia, with just the right amount of glamour.
Address: Avenida de Bruselas, 16, 38660 Costa Adeje, Tenerife, Spain
Where to Eat: The Unexpected Flavours of the Canaries
The food in the Canary Islands is bold, untamed, and filled with the rich history of this crossroads of cultures. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood pulled straight from the Atlantic or savouring unique local delicacies, the Canary cuisine offers layers of surprises.
El Rincón de Juan Carlos (Tenerife) – This Michelin-starred gem in Los Gigantes is a tribute to the art of cooking. With an emphasis on local produce and fresh seafood, this place is known for its modern approach to traditional Canary dishes. It’s where you’ll find creations that tease the palate, and with a terrace that overlooks the sea, it’s the kind of place where dining becomes an experience.
Address: Calle El Charco 1, 38683 Los Gigantes, Tenerife, Spain
Restaurante Kazán (Lanzarote) – On the island of Lanzarote, where volcanic landscapes give way to something breathtakingly unique, Restaurante Kazán serves up a fine fusion of Japanese and Canary cuisine. You’ll find sushi and sashimi made with local fish and expertly crafted rolls that incorporate the region’s flavors. Dining here feels like being part of an artistic experience, where every dish is as much about the visual impact as it is the flavor.
Address: Calle José Antonio, 7, 35570 Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, Spain
What to Do: Activities That Defy Expectations
While the beaches and sun are undeniable, the Canary Islands offer experiences that defy expectations. Here’s a list of things you won’t want to miss on your journey to these islands.
Hike the Teide Volcano (Tenerife) – Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, isn’t just a volcano – it’s an otherworldly landscape. The hike to the top rewards you with views that seem to stretch on forever, as well as a glimpse of lava fields and rocky terrains that look like they belong on the moon. It’s the ultimate thrill for those who like their adventure served with a side of extreme landscapes.
Explore the Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote) – The Timanfaya National Park is what happens when a place feels like it’s stuck in a time before humans arrived. The volcanic terrain here is nothing short of magical, with glistening craters and geothermal activity so surreal it could easily be the backdrop to a sci-fi movie. Get ready for a mesmerizing adventure that blends nature’s raw power with dramatic beauty.
Visit the Maspalomas Dunes (Gran Canaria) – Step into a desert where the dunes are seemingly endless, and the sand stretches as far as the eye can see. The Maspalomas Dunes are not just an idyllic beach, but a living, breathing natural wonder that feels both mystical and unreal. It’s the perfect place to feel small in the face of nature’s grandeur.
Discover La Laguna (Tenerife) – La Laguna is a UNESCO World Heritage site that exudes timeless charm. Wander its cobblestone streets and colonial buildings, where the past meets the present in a seamless blend. It’s a perfect example of how Tenerife can surprise you with culture and history when you least expect it.
When to Visit: The Right Time for the Ultimate Escape
The Canary Islands are a year-round destination, with mild temperatures that hover between 18°C and 25°C even during the winter months. The perfect time to go depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you’re after a quieter, more intimate experience, visit during the off-season months of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These months offer fewer crowds, more affordable prices, and a slightly more relaxed vibe, perfect for those seeking solitude amidst the islands’ natural beauty.
The Canary Islands might just be the destination that finally lives up to the hype—and then some. Whether you find yourself gazing at a sunset over the Atlantic, walking through volcanic landscapes, or indulging in a Michelin-worthy meal, these islands promise to keep you coming back for more. Forget the postcard image – the Canary Islands are not about clichés, it’s about diving into the unexpected, and finding that the best adventure is the one you never saw coming.
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