Tempting Tenerife
When to go to the Canary Islands
Bathed in endless sunshine, and blessed with an eternal springtime, there really is no question about when is the best time of the year to go to the Canary Islands - any time is the perfect time. Although the Atlantic Ocean location of the Canary Islands is geographically African, the archipelago is politically Spanish, which makes it certainly one of the most enviable and popular European destinations.
It's not just sun-starved northern Europeans that flock to the Canaries, but also Spaniards seeking a temperate respite from the heat of the summer months. Why stick to hotels in Madrid when there are island paradises just a quick flight away? This effectively means that the islands are subject to two annual peak periods, the European winter months of December to March, and also the annual summer holiday vacation period of July to September. Outside of these peak periods, the mild climatic conditions are much the same. In fact, the difference between the mean temperatures in winter and summer for the Canary Islands is something like wintertime averages of 18°, and summertime averages of 24°. Keeping this in mind, summertime highs can reach the mid-30s, although the weather tends to be cooler at higher altitudes.
While the islands have attracted a well-deserved reputation for being an idyllic spot to bask beachside, the Canary Islands hold a lot of potential for those seeking an active holiday. Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria have an abundant number of golfing and hiking opportunities. Mount Teide, for instance, holds the highest elevation in Spain and is the world's third largest volcano from the base. Located in the Central Volcanic Complex of Tenerife, Mount Teide stands alongside Pico Viejo and Montaña Blanca, and the region is noted for its distinctive flora and fauna. It's possible to ride a cable car to a station close to the summit. While access to the summit itself is restricted, a free pass can be acquired from the Parque Nacional del Teide office in Santa Cruz. Please note that according to the daily limit only 150 permits are issued, although check with the park office or at hotels in Tenerife for more information and regularly updated details.