The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean just 100 miles from Africa are popular all year round thanks to their warm climate, developed tourist industry and frequent flights from the UK.
Tenerife is the largest of the islands with a dormant volcano and mountain range splitting the island in two. The south is warmer and drier, and hence more popular with tourists, and the north greener and cooler.
Gran Canaria has the largest population and like Tenerife is split into a warmer south and greener north thanks to a central mountain range. Shoppers head to Las Palmas, beach lovers to Maspolmas and the fishing villages of Puerto Rico, Puerto de Morgan and Pasito Blanco offer picture-postcard views.
Lanzarote has the darkest landscape as a result of the islands volcanic orgins and also the finest sand on the beaches. The National Park of Timanfaya is a must for any visit to the island with stunning scenery.
Fuertaventura is popular with golfers and has the longest beaches of any of the islands, including a 4 mile stretch of golden sand between the towns of Jandia and Pajara.
The remaining three islands of La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro have less developed tourist accommodation and attractions but are still worth visiting