AllWays Traveller Features
Three Canary Islands
The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa, comprise the seven main islands of Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro.
Of these, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa, the "Covid-19 free" islands, are leading Spain's de-escalation from the Covid-19 lockdown.
La Gomera
Located 40 minutes by ferry from the southern coast of Tenerife, La Gomera offers lush green forests, black lava palm-studded beaches, ancient forests and banana plantations.
Its historic capital, San Sebastián is known for being Christopher Columbus' last port of call on his voyage to America.
La Gomera was awarded UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve status in 2011 thanks to the pristine nature of its marine and terrestrial ecosystems and being home to species that cannot be found anywhere else.
It offers fine hiking with islands highest peak is found in Garajonay National Park - UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.
The park is covered in low-lying fog which creates a perfect microclimate for one of Europe's last remaining cloud forests and forms part of La Gomera's 650km network of walking trails.
One of the captivating features of La Gomera is the Silbo Gomero, its unique whistling language. Recognised as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Humanity, this pre-Hispanic language has been used on the island since ancient times to communicate over long distances.
www.hellocanaryislands.com/la-gomera
El Hierro
El Hierro, the westernmost island of the Canaries, aims to become the first island in the world that will be 100% sustainable within the next four to eight years.
It is the second smallest island of the Canaries and is known for its spectacular underwater scenery and wildlife.
La Restinga Marine Reserve is an international acclaimed diving sanctuary frequented by numerous animal species.
El Hierro has a diving area where dolphins, turtles, stingrays, barracudas and peaceful white sharkscan be found.
Charco Azul, which is one of the most spectacular bathing spots in El Hierro, is located in El Golfo -a valley along the rugged coastline, and is one of the finest examples of the famous volcanic flows.
www.hellocanaryislands.com/el-hierro
La Graciosa
Located to the north of Lanzarote, La Graciosa is the least explored and most peaceful island of the Canaries.
With just 700 inhabitants it is a protected area included in the Chinijo Archipelago and has golden beaches, volcanic landscapes and small fishing villages.
La Graciosa is one of the last places in Europe with no tarmacked roads and can be explored on foot or by bike.
Within an hour's walk from Caleta de Sebo, La Graciosa's main city, visitors can find La Francesa Beach.
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