Hiking the wondrous landscapes of the Canary Islands

Step beyond the resorts of southern Tenerife to its forested, mountainous northern coastline, before hopping on a ferry to the lesser-visited islands of La Gomera and La Palma. Here you’ll enter an entirely different world of dramatically beautiful volcanic landscapes – superb for walking and hiking, peppered with colourful towns rich in local Canarian tradition and culture, and fine local food and wine.

The slower pace of island life provides a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the modern-day, although don’t be surprised to stumble upon festivals, local music, and traditional crafts which still play a significant role in the island’s social fabric.

For those looking for a more active break, this adventure offers a mix of gentle and intermediate hiking, venturing deep into the islands’ less-visited inner valleys and volcanic landscapes. Hike some of the Canaries’ best trails, circumvent volcanic craters and reach breath-taking viewpoints.

(Available as a small group tour or tailor-made holiday)

To find out more about the Canary Islands watch our podcast here.

About La Palma

La Palma, known as ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the beautiful island), is a haven for nature lovers, hikers and stargazers – indeed the island's clear skies and astronomical observatories attract star enthusiasts from around the world. It’s an island of pristine and diverse landscapes - lush forests, deep ravines, verdant valleys and volcanic craters in the interior, towering cliffs and black-sand beaches dominating the rugged coastline. The colonial capital, Santa Cruz de La Palma is a lovely small town that charms all entrants with its well-preserved colonial architecture, colourful houses with wooden balconies, and narrow, cobbled streets.

About La Gomera

La Gomera, spanning just 370 sq km, is a small island home to misty rainforest, terraced valleys, dramatic, ‘Jurassic Park’ like coastal cliffs and the ancient laurel trees and giant ferns of the Garajonay National Park. The island's population enjoys a slow-paced, traditional lifestyle, preserving some unusual cultural elements like the Silbo Gomero whistled language. The island is renowned for its untouched natural beauty, excellent hiking trails, and slow pace of life and it's historic capital, San Sebastián de La Gomera was the final jumping off point of Christopher Columbus on his way to discover the 'New World'.

About Northern Tenerife

Northern Tenerife could not be more different to its southern counterpart. Unlike the south, there’s not a package hotel to be seen - and it's where many of the islanders choose to live. The mountainous north is characterised by lush, rugged terrain and dramatic coastlines, including the Anaga Mountains, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to ancient laurel forests and picturesque villages. It is home to 'El Tiede', which at 3715m is the highest mountain in Spain.