Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about the The top 6 Spanish islands for holidaymakers.
Spain has a wealth of islands for travellers to choose between, from tropical volcanic wonders to Mediterranean gems with golden beaches. Find your perfect trip destination by using this guide to the top six Spanish islands for holidaymakers.
The top 6 Spanish islands for holidaymakers
The Best of the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are officially part of Spain despite enjoying a privileged position off the north-west coast of Africa. This archipelago of dramatic volcanic islands offers diverse scenery, unique activities, and almost year-round beach weather thanks to its warm and sunny tropical climate
1. Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest and most densely populated Canary Island. Its main draw for tourists are the extensive sandy beaches and beachside resorts offering a wide range of facilities.
The best of these resorts are in the south-west of the island, a conveniently short car ride from the airport. This location, combined with the chance for sea-based water-sports, makes Tenerife a popular choice for families travelling with children.
Beyond the beaches, Tenerife has more spectacular scenery including Mount Teide National Park which is home to the third largest volcano in the world. In addition, almost 50% of the island is a protected nature area which tourists can explore on foot or on horseback.
2. Lanzarote
Many tourists are torn between Tenerife and Lanzarote as their Canary Islands destination, and with good reason! The two islands are both blessed with beautiful beaches and enchanting interior countryside.
Lanzarote was one of the original ‘sun, sea and sand’ destinations of the 1970s, particularly popular with European travellers seeking a fly-and-flop coastal getaway. In addition to the beaches that are perfect for sunbathing are striking pebbled coves and remote bays with black sand.
Head to the very centre of Lanzarote and you will find silver and black mountains that make you feel as though you are traversing the surface of the moon. This unique and almost unbelievable landscape earned the entire country the title of World Biosphere Reserve from UNESCO.
Just as extraordinary as its natural landscape are the unusual architectural additions and art installations by renowned artist Cesar Manrique that are peppered around Lanzarote.
3. Gran Canaria
For those hankering after a little bit of everything, Gran Canaria certainly fits the bill.
Its capital, Las Palmas, is considered the capital of the Canary Islands and welcomes cruise ships throughout the holiday season. Duty-free shopping and buzzing nightlife, as well as a golden horseshoe bay, make this a hotspot for tourists.
Outside of the commercial centres, Gran Canaria is comprised of small traditional villages and diverse countryside ranging from spectacular sand dunes to viewpoint-dense mountains. As with the other Canary Islands, Gran Canaria also boasts a wealth of beautiful gold- and black-sand beaches.
The best of the Balearics
The four Balearic Islands are much closer to Spain than the Canary Islands, sitting just off the east coast of the mainland. While they don’t have a tropical climate, they are blessed with balanced Mediterranean weather that works for beach holidays from April right into mid-October.
4. Ibiza
Ibiza is one of the most well-known Balearic Islands thanks to a recent reputation as a party destination, particularly popular with school leavers and university students. While there are areas devoted to exceptional nightlife where you will find world-class DJs, Ibiza is more than its club culture.
Head up to the north coast and you will feel a world away from the party scene and urban life in general. This part of the island still boasts a stunning shoreline, but it is blissfully deserted compared to the bustling beaches of the south. Just behind the sand is a maze of hidden caves and pine forest trails.
5. Majorca
Of the four Balearic Islands, Majorca is the biggest. It is blessed with an extraordinarily attractive coastline that invites travellers from all over Europe and beyond.
Looking to live the life of luxury during your holiday? Head to the south-east village of Cala d’Or that has become the billionaire’s playground. There are exclusive Majorca airport transfers available to take you away from the hordes and straight to this opulent oasis in style.
For a more budget-friendly relaxing getaway, head to the north-east coast. C’an Picafort is a fantastic option for families and couples alike thanks to its astonishing 13km sandy beach which has plenty of room for all.
6. Menorca
Last up is Menorca, the best of the Balearic Islands if your goal is to slow down and reset in scenic surroundings.
The island is less popular than Ibiza and its larger neighbour, Majorca, but this means it makes for a blissfully peaceful beach holiday destination. The southern coastline is mostly sandy, ideal for families planning playtime, while the northern side is more rocky with smaller coves.
Snorkelling is rewarding here as the island is surrounded by crystal clear waters that are usually a pleasant temperature. July to October is the best season for snorkelling, but those who dare to brave the cold will find it a rewarding pastime in the spring months as well.
Final words on The top 6 Spanish islands for holidaymakers
Spain is blessed with a collection of amazing islands that offer a diverse range of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and captivating holiday experiences.
Whether you’re drawn to vibrant towns with a lively nightlife or serene natural settings, there is sure to be a destination that fits your requirements in our top 6 spanish islands for holidaymakers guide.
I hope you enjoyed this feature about The top 6 Spanish islands for holidaymakers and you can also have a look more of our travel features.
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With love,
These places are so beautiful! Wonderful Post! Have a great day!
Gloriousher
Thank you! So glad you liked the post 🙂
I have been to Spain before but would love to return and visit Gran Canaria. The colorful houses is so stunning and I just truly love their culture. Laid back and so relaxed!
Maureen
Thanks Maureen. I am currently in (mainland) Spain and I love the relaxed culture here 🙂
OMG wow, these cities and islands look absolutely stunning. Would love to get one or more then one, one of these days. I did get out of Paris this trip and went to Normandy with my family for the weekend.
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
I’m so glad you managed to get out of Paris and Normandy is a beautiful place to visit. I love Deauville and Honfleur xo
I’d love to visit them all, especially Lanzerote! <3
http://www.couture-case.com/
Thanks Jelena! All of the Canary Islands are worth visiting xo
I would love to travel to any of these islands! Those colorful buildings of Gran Canaria look amazing!
Jill – Doused in Pink
They are all beautiful islands! I love Spain and the Spanish Islands – currently in Southern Spain x
Hello!
Great places. I would love to see them all 🙂 Thank you for this post!
Greetings from Poland!
Hi Klaudia, So glad you liked the post 🙂
So beautiful. I would love to escape to one of these right now.
Yes, I can recommend all of them x
Thanks so much for the recommendations! They all look so good!
Have a lovely weekend ahead.
Gemma x
http://www.jacquardflower.uk
Thanks Gemma! I’m glad you like the recommendations x