subject: Are The Canary Islands Still A Top Winter Holiday Destination? [print this page] A lot of people unfortunately had to miss out on holidays in 2009 due to the recession, so many of them could be looking to book a winter break instead. One of the age old popular winter destinations has to be the Canary Islands. Of volcanic origin, this archipelago is a Spanish territory yet lies just off the west coast of Africa. Its east Atlantic location ensures the summers are hot and the winters are mild and inviting.
The islands all have their own individuality and consist of Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro. From cosy coves and endless beaches to lush pine forests, giant sand dunes, sub-tropical flora and high mountain peaks.
Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the most popular of the Canary Islands and both offer something for the whole family, both have great family facilities, beautiful beaches and, of course great nightlife for the younger generation.
Lanzarote is the next favourite and has beautiful golden or white sands; Papagayo beach on its southern tip is probably the most beautiful and benefits from some of the best weather. Lanzarote has a very low recorded rainfall so is a popular choice for cheap holidays to the Canary Islands during the winter months.
Fuerteventura picks up the trade winds and warm Sahara breeze making it extremely popular with water sports enthusiasts, in particular wind surfers. You'll come across some of the most impressive sand dunes in Europe here, and also some of the most beautiful beaches.
La Gomera is one of the smaller lesser well known of the islands and is often only visited by day trippers on boat excursions from Tenerife. Vegetation is lush and green here as the islands peak is often shrouded in cloud making the perfect conditions for plants to grow. It is especially favoured by keen walkers who enjoy the tranquillity, stunning scenery and warm hospitality.
The most north westerly of the Canary Islands is La Palma, which is also the fifth largest. It is again predominately a walking destination as it is a mass of blue, green and black. The lush green forests form the perfect backdrop for the colourful flora and fauna and the bright blue sea glistens against the dark volcanic sands.
Finally, the most south westerly island is El Hierro, well off the beaten track and visited by only a handful of walkers every year.
Even though people may be tempted by new destinations,
