Chase away the winter blues in the Canary Islands

Looking for a quick winter escape? The Canary Islands are a go-to destination for year-round warmth. With winter temperatures hovering around 20°C, it’s easy to see why these islands are a top pick for sun-seekers.

Whether you’re after lazy beach days or action-packed adventures, this guide will help you choose your perfect island, highlighting the best things to do and where to unwind.

Puerto de Mogan, Grand Canaria

Why visit the Canary Islands in winter?

The Canary Islands promise more than endless sunshine (though there’s plenty of that). With barely any rain, they’re the ideal spot to swap winter blues for bright skies. With prices lower than long-haul destinations like the Caribbean or Dubai, they’re a popular, hassle-free choice for winter sun.

Beyond the resorts: what to discover

Sure, there are plenty of purpose-built resorts offering all the comforts of a classic holiday – soft sandy beaches, lively nightlife and a dining scene that stretches from cosy tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants. But venture beyond the tourist hotspots and you’ll see that the real heart of the Canary Islands beats far from the crowds. There’s volcanic terrain made for hiking, hidden lava caves waiting to be explored and traditional Canarian villages where age-old customs like basket weaving and silbo whistling are still alive and well.

Where are the islands?

Huddled off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands belong to Spain. They’re just a short flight from the UK, with plenty of options from regional airports across the country, and the journey takes just over four hours.

View of Lobos islands, Corralejo, Fuerteventura

Islands at a glance

The Canary Islands might share the same sunny climate and volcanic scenery, but each one has its own character. Whichever you choose, expect a mix of beach relaxation, cultural gems and outdoor activities.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria isn’t known as a "miniature continent" for nothing. This island has it all, from sun-soaked beaches to dramatic mountain trails. Head south to the iconic Maspalomas Dunes – vast, rolling sands that feel like a desert by the sea.

For a taste of culture, explore Las Palmas, the vibrant capital. Wander the cobbled streets of Vegueta with its colourful markets and colonial architecture. When evening falls, hit Calle Mendizábal for tapas with a modern twist, local wine and live music that spills into the lively plazas.

Top Stay: Seaside Palm Beach Hotel

This retro-glam resort is a skip away from the Maspalomas sand dunes. Couples will love the sleek spa and Esencia restaurant offers top-notch Mediterranean dining. Come nightfall, grab a sangria and enjoy live music under fairy-lit palms.

Recommended Experience: Dolphin spotting by catamaran

Set sail on a catamaran to spot dolphins in their natural habitat. You’ll glide across the ocean searching for bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales, finishing with a refreshing swim off the coast.

Seaside Palm Beach Hotel, Gran Canaria

Lanzarote

Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape feels otherworldly, like you’ve stepped onto another planet. Timanfaya National Park is a must-see, with its eerie craters and sweeping lava fields that stretch for miles. For a sip of the islands flavours, head to the vineyards, where hardy vines thrive in black volcanic soil – don’t miss sampling the local wines.

Down by the coast, Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen offer slow days by the sea. Art lovers will appreciate César Manrique’s influence everywhere, from sculptures to galleries that blend with the island’s rugged beauty.

Top Stay: Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa

Adults-only and all-inclusive, this resort is great for couples seeking a tranquil escape. With private volcanic beaches and luxurious spa treatments, it’s easy to forget the outside world and focus on pure relaxation.

Recommended Experience: Island highlights tour

Explore Lanzarote’s dramatic landscapes in a day. Visit the salt flats at Janubio, see the green lagoon at El Golfo and venture into Timanfaya National Park, where geothermal hotspots sizzle under the surface.

Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote

Tenerife

Tenerife is all about variety. Relax on the lively southern beaches (some with golden sand imported from the Sahara) or if you’re feeling adventurous, take the cable car ride up Mount Teide for jaw-dropping views from Spain’s highest peak.

If luxury is what you're after, Costa Adeje’s high-end resorts offer infinity pools, gourmet dining and world-class spas. Families will love Siam Park, one of the best water parks in Europe and nearby Loro Parque, a top wildlife attraction.

Top Stay: Iberostar Selection Anthelia

A family favourite in Costa Adeje with pirate ship pools and beachfront dining. While the kids are entertained, parents can relax by the adults-only pool or indulge at the spa.

Recommended Experience: Teide by Jeep

Hop into a jeep to explore the volcanic landscape around Mount Teide. You’ll pass through the quaint village of Vilaflor and discover Tenerife from a whole new angle.

Iberostar Selection Anthelia, Tenerife

Fuerteventura

For beach lovers, Fuerteventura is a dream. Miles of golden sand and clear blue waters stretch out before you, whether you’re lazing under the sun or catching the wind on a kiteboard.

For serious beach lovers, Corralejo is the spot to be, with vast dunes that feel endless and stunning ocean views. Head inland to quiet villages where time slows down and you can get a feel for authentic Canarian life. This isn’t the place for mega resorts – just peaceful retreats where you can truly switch off.

Top stay: Secrets Bahia Real Resort and Spa

This adults-only beachfront retreat has Arabian-influenced décor, a fabulous dining scene and stunning views over Isla de Lobos. Head to the Secrets Spa for soothing treatments based on hydrotherapy.

Recommended Experience: Tapas Tour

Take a delicious journey through Fuerteventura’s culinary delights. Visit local farms to sample cactus-based jams, olive oil and award-winning goat cheese, all while learning about the island’s rich food heritage.

Olive oil tasting, Fuerteventura

La Gomera

A short ferry from Tenerife, tiny La Gomera is the Canary Islands' best-kept secret. There are no flashy beach resorts here, just unmated beauty. Hike through Garajonay National Park’s ancient laurel forests or follow winding roads that reveal jaw-dropping views around every bend.

In sleepy villages like Agulo, sip local wine at a fisherman’s bar and don’t leave without trying almogrote, the island’s famous cheese spread. If you’re after somewhere to disconnect, La Gomera showcases the wild side of the Canaries at its best.

Top Stay: Hotel Jardin Tecina

Perched on a cliffside, this retreat offers sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean and across to Mount Teide. It’s ideal for couples seeking both romance and easy access to Garajonay National Park.

Recommended Experience: Visit Mirador De Abrante

Take in spectacular views from this glass-floored viewpoint strung high on a cliff. On a clear day, you can see across the Atlantic to Mount Teide on Tenerife, making it one of the island’s most scenic spots.

Agulo village, La Gomera 

Is a twin-centre holiday possible?

Absolutely. Whether you want to explore two sides of one island or combine two different islands like Lanzarote and Tenerife, if it's possible, we'll make it happen. A popular choice is Tenerife and La Gomera, just a 50-minute ferry ride apart, offering both beach life and natural wonders. Or combine the bustling south of Tenerife with the historic charm of Garachico in the north.

Mount Teide at sunrise, Tenerife

This feature was created on 27th September 2024. The information within this feature is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of print. Feature by Heather Flanagan.