Spanish culture; African landscapes
The Canary Islands have been a popular option for holidaymakers since the 1960s. This volcanic Spanish island chain sits off the coast of Morocco and has been shaped by the influence of North African and European settlers and centuries of Atlantic trade. All seven islands boast dramatic scenery, with black and white sand beaches, vast sand dunes and rugged rock formations.
Tenerife is the largest in the archipelago and boasts azure blue seas, pretty beaches and charming towns. The capital, Santa Cruz, is a cosmopolitan centre with a thriving arts scene and is a popular spot for couples. There’s a range of family resorts on the coast. To the west is Lanzarote, which is home to the extraordinary lunar landscape of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Timanfaya National Park. The European Space Agency trains astronauts for future Mars missions here.
Gran Canaria is the southernmost point of the chain and offers some exceptional seaside resorts which edge onto warm Atlantic waters. Its main town, Las Palmas, is known for its brightly painted houses and fine cathedral.
Holidays in the Canary Islands are about relaxation. Here you can feel the stresses of home drift away on the warm Atlantic breeze. Relax beside the pool, wander in charming villages or enjoy a world class spa treatment. You’ll find excellent options for eating and drinking in most major resorts; from hearty local fare to international cuisines.
Sovereign has been a leader in crafting bespoke luxury holidays for close to five decades. We offer complimentary lounge access at most major UK airports and a dedicated service from our Personal Travel Planners.
Tenerife’s five star Iberostar Grand Hotel Salome is located near Costa Adeje on the west coast. Its attractive grounds overlook the ocean and feature a range of bars and restaurants. On Lanzarote, the Princess Yaiza Suite Hotel is a dreamy jumble of domes and minarets in Playa Blanca. It’s child friendly and offers an excellent spa service, as well as several dining options by the sea.
Around 4 hours 15 minutes from the UK.
The Canaries are a true year-round holiday destination. Being so close to Africa, you get steady average temperatures that stick in the high teens and early 20s throughout winter, climbing steadily to a mid-30s peak in July and August. The heat is tempered by winds, particularly in Lanzarote, which takes the edge of summer humidity but can make evenings feel cooler.
Currently visas are not required for UK citizens travelling to Spain.
Restaurant bills include a service charge by law in Spain, so whether you choose to tip further is up to you. If you enjoyed the meal and service, it is customary to leave 5-10%. Hotel porters and maids will appreciate a small tip, and while taxi drivers don’t require a tip, it’s common to round up the fare.
The official language of Spain is Spanish. English is widely spoken too, so getting by is easy.
We've been finding people their own slice of paradise for 50 years, and like to think we're pretty good at it.
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