Nowadays, it can be hard to find the time and the place to reconnect with nature – sometimes a walk in the park just doesn’t cut it. What better way to immerse yourself in natural beauty and bring some clarity to your frazzled mind than with a hiking trip to the Canary Islands? The sheer variety offered by island-hopping holidays in Lanzarote, Tenerife and La Gomera make this archipelago an ideal destination for sun-seeking hikers.
Small But Mighty
Don’t be quick to judge the small island of La Gomera too quickly. It boasts some of the best scenery in the Canaries, attracting seasoned walkers to the luscious Garajonay Nature Park where you can lose yourself amidst the trees, and then be inspired by the dramatic cliff top views. The topography is unmissable for amateur geographers and with a couple of routes that take you through or around the mountain that dominates the park, you’ll be able to experience it all.
The San Sabastian region is popular among hikers, providing excellent access for the best treks. For a picturesque journey at every turn as well as ease the Parador Conde de la Gomera is a great option, offering guests magical views of the sparkling sea and the town below.
Moving Mountains
For adventurous travellers on their holidays in Lanzarote, a visit to Timanfaya is a must. The bizarre beauty of this volcanic island transports you to an alien landscape and with more than twenty active volcanoes in the area, its trails definitely exude adventure. Walking is a fantastic way to truly get a sense of a place, and in Timanfaya you can literally feel the life force of this volcanic isle beneath your footsteps.
After a day of exploring, tired legs will find a number of the top Lanzarote resorts in close proximity to the volcanic region. Los Pocillos and Playa Blanca are great options, and for those looking for the five-star treatment the Princesa Yaiza is highly recommended.
Following in Ancient Footsteps
History, diverse landscapes and incredible beauty – the Parque Natural de la Coron Forestal in Tenerife has it all. For tourists who like variety, the largest nature reserve in the Canaries is the perfect location for walks that meander from one charming village to the next, passing through gorgeous forests and fascinating areas of ancient volcanic ash eroded by time.
One of the most popular trails begins in the ancient village of Masca, which was made accessible by road in 1993. Quaint houses seem to balance on a precarious rock that rises from a ravine, and from here visitors can enjoy a picturesque three-hour hike leading down to the paradisal beach.
If the allure of Masca and the Natural de la Coron Forestal has got you hooked, stay at the San Roque hotel for a melange of modern and traditional luxury. It’s located in Garachico, a town close to the park.
The Canary islands are renowned for their island-hopping holidays; in Lanzarote, Tenerife and La Gomera you’ll discover more than just relaxing beaches. These tropical retreats are a hiker’s paradise.
John Dixon is an experienced world traveller and the Managing Director of Prestige Holidays. For over 30 years, he has been providing luxury holidays in Lanzarote, Bermuda, Sicily and many other destinations around the globe. John tries to visit each of the destinations regularly in order to ensure the quality of his properties, and stay up-to-date about the latest local news and events. He has a taste for the finer things in life and has an interest in arts, history and culture.
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