GENERAL

A cluster of seven sun kissed Spanish islands off the west coast of Morocco, enjoying spectacular beaches, year round golden sunshine and breathtaking volcanic landscapes, the Canary Islands have long been the beach break destination of choice for British holidaymakers.

Whether you're looking for a cheap family beach getaway or a spot of winter sun, a lively clubbing holiday or a romantic escape, holidays to the Canaries have got it all covered.

The islands...

Tenerife is the largest of the islands, and home to a dazzling array of perfect beaches, ranging from golden sands to black and volcanic, as well as famous party resorts such as Playa de las Americas, the highest peak in Spain in Mount Teide, outstanding family resorts like Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje, and the golfing hotbed of the Golf del Sur.

If you want to explore jaw-dropping volcanic terrain on your holiday to the Canaries, then head to spectacular Lanzarote, home to the famous 'lunar landscapes' of Timanfaya National Park, plus the sublime Papagayo beaches of Playa Blanca and the popular resorts of Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise.

Gran Canaria is incredibly popular and some the best resorts in the Canaries can be found here, including Playa del Ingles - after Benidorm, the largest and most well-equipped holiday resort in Europe - and its beautiful sister resort of Maspalomas. The resort of Puerto Rico is said to be the sunniest spot on the island perfect for a winter holiday, while it also serves as the perfect base from which to go whale and dolphin spotting.

Of the major islands, Fuerteventura is the quietest and ideal for a relaxing beach break in the Canaries. The most popular beach resorts are Corralejo, with its protected sand dunes on the gorgeous north coast, and the family favourites of Caleta de Fuste and Jandia. Fuerteventura is a legendary windsurfing destination with a World Championship held each year on the south coast.

Marine life...

The sea life found in waters surrounding these volcanic islands is extremely diverse and draws in divers, marine biologists and underwater photographers from all over the world. Among the reefs and sunken wrecks, subaquatic caves and volcanic caverns, you'll find a colourful assortment of octopuses, rays, angel sharks, parrotfish, grouper and many more species. The five species of turtles that sometimes frequent the island are the highpoint for many divers, and include the endangered Loggerhead species.

All the islands have dive centres, with the largest three outstandingly equipped with modern schools, suitable for all levels of experience and featuring well-qualified instructors. Tenerife remains the most popular island among divers, while both here and Lanzarote offer memorable submarine expeditions.

A holiday destinations for all...

From waterparks and nightclubs to olive groves and mountain treks, it doesn't matter if you want to party from dawn 'til dusk or soak up the sun in peace and quiet, there's a location and a hotel waiting to help you have a good time - be it all inclusive, self-catering or a five star resort fit for royalty! Book today with MyTravel for a fantastic deal on a holiday to the Canary Islands!

If you like the sound of the Canaries...

...take a look at holidays to Cape Verde here, holidays to The Gambia here and holidays to the Algarve here.