Escape to the Canary Islands

• Day 1 Southampton (UK)

  Departure: late afternoon

• Day 4 Vigo (Spain)

  An important maritime city for centuries, Vigo is located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and has one of the best natural ports in the world. The port area was heavily influenced by the sea, and has many old fishing houses and markets selling locally caught seafood. A neoclassical Cathedral, the Collegiate Church of Santa Marta is built on the site of a gothic church that was burnt down by Francis Drake; and there is an impressive statue dedicated to literary author Jules Verne.

• Day 7 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

  Las Palmas is perhaps the most popular destination in the Canary Islands, loved by those who enjoy year-round sunshine. The island was originally occupied by the Canarii people, from the 5th century BC, whose cultures and lifestyles can be discovered at several sites around Gran Canaria, including the ancient burial ground of El Maipés Necropolis. The twin towers of Santa Ana Cathedral stand tall in the centre of Las Palmas, a unique combination of Renaissance, Gothic and Neoclassical styles.

• Day 8 Santa Cruz de Tenerife

  The winter sun in the Canaries makes this the perfect time to explore Tenerife and its beautiful beaches, including the man-made golden sands of Playa de las Teresitas in the north and the volcanic black sands of Playa de las Americas in the south. Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, dominates the skyline over Santa Cruz, whose summit can be reached by cable car for spectacular views across the island and beyond. Meanwhile, as the waters surrounding the island are home to a diverse range of wildlife, there will be opportunities to spot pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The renowned “guachinches”, small, family-run restaurants, offer hearty Canarian food and are well worth discovering.

• Day 9 San Sebastian de la Gomera

  The island of La Gomera promises a gloriously sunny exploration in winter, where you’ll have opportunities to discover the green paradise of Garajonay National Park, with trails through misty laurel forests and magnificent views across the island from its peak. Meanwhile, the waters around the island are ideal for spotting various species of dolphins and whales, while a stroll around the capital of San Sebastian offers chances to discover intricate churches, the historical fort, and the Well of Aguada. You can immerse yourself in local culture by listening to the unique Silbo whistling language, still preserved today and used by the indigenous people of the island to communicate across the deep valleys.

• Day 10 Funchal, Madeira

  The glorious island of Madeira is known as the ‘Garden Island’ due to its array of subtropical flowers and plants that seem to burst from every direction. From Funchal, you’ll be able to witness the floral beauty of the island at the exquisite garden in Monte, featuring themed gardens and tropical plants, while its levada walking trails offer unique views of enchanting forests and flowing streams. During November, you will have the opportunity to sample traditional foods and the renowned fortified Madeiran wine, witness local Bailinho dances, or visit one of Europe’s tallest cliffs, Cabo Girao, standing 580 metres above sea level, with a suspended glass platform viewpoint.

• Day 12 Lisbon (Portugal)

  Visiting Lisbon in November allows for opportunities to explore at a slower pace, including marvelling at views across the city from the many miradouros (viewpoints). You will also be ideally placed for wandering along the labyrinth of cobblestoned streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, which offers a captivating journey through the city, from the grandeur of São Jorge Castle to the stirring rhythms of Fado music. There will also be opportunities to try local dishes like grilled sardines or the deliciously crumbly Pastéis de Nata custard tart with a crisp glass of Vinho Verde wine, ride through the city on a vintage tram, and visit the nearby fairytale-like town of Sintra, set against the backdrop of rolling hills.

• Day 15 Southampton (UK)

  Arrival: early morning

Winter Warmth in the Canary Islands Itinerary