What are the essential components of a relaxing getaway? Quiet sandy beaches? Secluded swimming spots? Whatever you desire from a leisurely escape, the Canary Islands will offer it by the bucket load.
Whilst there are plenty of exciting opportunities that come with a trip to one of the bigger islands like Tenerife, they can also sometimes prove too hectic for the more laid-back traveller. If overcrowded beaches and teaming restaurants sound all too familiar, consider visiting one of the smaller islands, where the inhabitants’ more laid-back lifestyles are conducive to a relaxing stay. Will any of these three islands be the destination of your next relaxing retreat?
El Hierro
Whilst it’s far smaller than all of its more commercialised neighbours, El Hierro is widely known as being one of the most beautiful islands in the archipelago. If you’re looking to completely immerse yourself in nature away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist hotspots, El Hierro is the place for you.
Much of the island is framed by steep cliffs, and there are very few beaches along the coastline. However, one of El Hierro’s best kept secrets is its extensive catalogue of natural pools, which are the perfect spots to relax and unwind. One of the best natural pools on the island can be found at Charco Azul in the El Golfo area. Here, you can take in stunning views across the Atlantic, whilst enjoying a dip in the alluring turquoise waters.
La Gomera
La Gomera welcomes around 80,000 visitors each year, a drop in the ocean compared to the five million-plus that Tenerife sees. Due to the reduced numbers, you will have no problem enjoying the peace and quiet found in this relatively undisturbed corner of the Canaries.
Owing to the reduction in light pollution, some of the best stargazing spots in the archipelago can be found across the smaller islands such as La Gomera. There are many stunning places to observe the constellations here, but one of the best is at the Garajonay summit. Perched at almost 1,500 metres above sea level, you will be treated to awe-inspiring views of the Milky Way – be sure to brush up on your astronomy before heading to this enchanting paradise!
La Graciosa
Another of the Canary Islands which remains untouched by mass tourism is La Graciosa. The island is just five miles long and is one of the few places in the entire continent with no asphalted roads, symbolic of its remoteness and detachment from mass civilisation. Around 700 people live on La Graciosa, and the main industry was fishing for many years, until adventurous travellers started exploring the enchanting island’s shores.
You will be hard pressed to find many more beautiful beaches in the Canaries which are as empty as the ones on La Graciosa. With such little tourist activity, the deserted sandy stretches here are some of the most tranquil anywhere in the archipelago, making them perfect for your relaxing retreat.
One of the most beautiful spots to set out your beach towel is on La Francesca Beach. The undisturbed white sand combined with the calm turquoise waters makes La Francesca a desirable destination for visitors wanting to sunbathe or even snorkel in the shallow waters.
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