The big mistake with the Canary Islands is to imagine they are all about beaches, blue seas and busy seaside resorts. While the islands have plenty of these - plus virtually guaranteed, year-round sunshine - they also have some terrific walking country. And many of the best hotels in the Canary Islands for walking holidays ensure not only easy access to walks and views but also a more authentic slice of Canarian life.
As volcanic islands, their interiors offer dramatic scenery from ancient calderas, rugged peaks and stark rock formations to lush, pine-clad hills and acres of almond blossom. These landscapes are a walker’s paradise; the adventurous can even aim for Mount Teide, Spain’s highest mountain (3718 metres), on Tenerife. The perfect peak of Teide is surrounded by a moonscape of dusty-red, volcanic, rock formations in what is Spain’s largest national park.
There are equally dramatic landscapes on Lanzarote where the Parque Nacional de Timanfaya and the Parque Natural de Los Volcanes offer a series of volcanoes, calderas and lava fields. By contrast, La Palma - the greenest island - is often considered to be the prettiest with a lush natural beauty while Fuerteventura offers vast natural sand dunes and open plains dotted with cacti, scrub and goats.
For variety, take a look at Gran Canaria, often referred to as a ‘continent-in-miniature’ due to its varied landscapes from pine-clad hills to rugged and dramatic mountains. One lovely area for walking is in the Guayadeque Ravine with its lush vegetation.
Tiny La Gomera offers perhaps some of the Canary Islands’ finest walking, with its ravines, forests and high cliffs - and with fewer visitors you really can get away from it all. Or for a true escape, head to El Hierro, the smallest island of the group, with a stark volcanic interior, high cliffs and slow pace of life.
Use our guide to 10 of the Best hotels in the Canary Islands for walking holidays and start to plan your active break. If you already know which island you want to visit, simply click the link to get the full list of recommended hotels for walkers in that location.
Lanzarote (C.P.35550 San Bartolomé)
Rural chic setting fitted with a film-star pool. Six luxury villas with Moroccan and Indonesian influences and surrounded by vineyards, orchards and gardens. A perfect oasis for families and groups of friends on the island for a relaxing holiday.
Lanzarote (Masdache)
Four self-catering cottages set in a charming, working vineyard. An oasis of tranquility with beautiful central pool area and stunning grounds. Built in hommage to the island's famous designer César Manrique, they embody rustic Canarian with a simple modern twist. Sweet and chic.
Gran Canaria
A traditional finca near a natural park with fantastic facilities. Traditional chic rooms, pretty gardens and pool, excellent restaurant, fitness areas, spa therapies, and lots of family oriented activities. A great value spot for families.
Gran Canaria
A large hotel surrounded by nature, mountainous ranges, and valley views. Large traditional chic bedrooms and suites with stunning views from private balconies. Excellent restaurants, bar, swimming pool, spa, and verdant gardens. A fabulous back to nature experience with excellent facilities.
Tenerife
Hotel Villalba is a relaxing hillside retreat set in the mountains near the Teide National Park. The rooms are modestly decorated and feature attached balconies with great views out over the surrounding valley. Explore the nearby UNESCO World Heritage El Teide and its lunar landscape.
Fuerteventura
Mahoh is a traditional 19th century Canarian house, awash with heritage and charm. The rooms are dominated by great antique beds and are given added character from their exposed stone walls. Sample typical Canarian food at the hotel's restaurant. A delighful, low-cost option.
El Hierro
Parador de El Hierro is a spectacular hotel with an unmistakable edge of the world feel. The rooms are spacious and comfortable with many boasting superb views over the Atlantic. Explore the quiet beauty of the island or simply relax on the beach. The perfect hideaway.
La Gomera
A charming family run guesthouse in rural La Gomera. The rooms are individually appointed with bespoke antique furnishings and have a distinctly rustic feel. Start the day well with a delicious breakfast before exploring the beautiful valleys and coasts of the island. An excellent low-cost option.
La Gomera
A traditional property commanding epic views of the Hermigua valley. Each of the 17 individually styled rooms has its own charm; think quaint prints, antique furniture and original features. The perfect spot to start out on a days hiking. Ideal for those in search of complete tranquility.
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