With average daytime temperatures of over 20 degrees Celsius all year round, the Canary Islands make an ideal Winter holiday destination for those in desperate need of sunshine during northern Europe’s dreary winters.  Located closer to the north west coast of Africa than to the Spanish mainland, the seven islands of the Canaries are popular with tourists from January to December.  Approximately 5 million tourists visit the largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife, every year.

There’s plenty to do in Tenerife for everyone.  The Teide National Park containing Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, which rises to a height of 12,198′, is highly recommended.  Ride on the cable car to the top of the volcano and admire the views and the stunning volcanic landscape below.  Take the family to the Siam Water Park and have fun amongst the rapids and the water slides.  Alternatively, you could take a boat ride out onto the ocean for whale and dolphin watching. Swim in one of the many rock pools of the town of Garachico, visit the picturesque mountain village of Masca or explore the old buildings and browse amongst the shops and tapas bars of La Laguna.

There’s so much to do that you are bound to want to return the following year, especially if Winter at home turns out to be cold, grey and wet.