10-night Hidden Gems Of The Canary & Madeira Islands Cruise

The Canary Archipelago, or Fortunate Islands, as they are often called, owe their fame and fortune to their geographical location and climate. Of volcanic origin, the islands lie off the African coast and encompass such a variety of features that in the course of a day it is possible to pick bananas, throw snowballs, swim in the Atlantic and climb mountains. Tenerife is the largest of Canaries. The south features a desert with grotesque rock formations and chunks of cooled lava. Further north stretch miles of green fields of bananas, tomatoes and potatoes. Mountain slopes are dotted with beech, eucalyptus and pine trees. The coastline is as varied as the areas inland, offering black, grey and golden sand, cliffs, tame beaches and wild capes. A spectacular example of past volcanic activity is Canadas crater which rings Mount Teide - the main feature of the island. At 12,198 feet, the cone-shaped Teide is the highest Spanish summit and nearly always snow-capped. A cable car is available to the top.

Destination Guide

Puerto del Rosario is the cultural center of the Fuerteventura region. A sprawling promenade along the coast with benches, outdoor art and fitness equipment lines the scenic shoreline. Relax and sit, watching the boats come and go from the marina while enjoying ice cream or resting from your walk. At the end of the path, find Playa Blanca and the Puerto del Rosario beach, with soft sands and opportunities for surfing. In town, you'll find white-washed homes, Nuestra Senora del Rosario church and the museum dedicated to the writer Miguel de Unamuno. Further afield, you'll find several nature reserves.

Madeira has been described as "Island of Eternal Spring". It is renowned for its wine, which many feel ranks among the world’s best. Funchal has a wide selection of resort hotels where watersports, golf and tennis are popular. Visitors can tour the 15th-century cathedral, orchid gardens of Quinta das Cruzes, and buildings associated with Christopher Columbus. Madeira’s discoverer, Zarco, is believed to have lived in the house Quinta das Cruzes. Now it displays furniture and paintings and is surrounded by fabulous gardens. The stunning 15th-century design of Sé Cathedral features white stucco with contrasting black basalt and red tufa rock; the ceiling is inlaid with ivory. Located near Town Hall, the Museum of Sacred Art contains art from several islands, including a group of 15th- and 16th-century paintings of Portuguese and Flemish schools. Visit colorful Mercado dos Lavradores during the morning to see flower vendors and fish and produce stands.

Excursions

Funchal History & Tradition (6 - 8 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
 
During the morning, indulge in a private embroidery workshop at a family own embroidery factory, where you will learn the local secrets and get the chance to bring your own embroidery work.
 
Lunch (not included) will be served at a local cozy regional restaurant, where you can delight with local recipes.
 
After lunch, enjoy a private guided visit to Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
 
Pass by and visit the Sé Cathedral, a church dating back to the XV Century, direction to the Marketplace where you can admire a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish.
 
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, enjoy a private guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park.
The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.

Ending the tour, your chauffeur will drop you off at the dock. 


Includes: Full-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (6 - 8 Hours); Expert Guide - Half-day at Disposal, as per itinerary (3 - 4 Hours); Entrance fees at chapel of Sta. Catarina, Sé Cathedral, Botanical Garden (Optional); Private Visit & Embroidery Workshop (Optional).
Not feasible: Weekends and National Holidays.

Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.
 

Funchal History & Wine (6 - 8 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
 
Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
 
During the morning, indulge in a private embroidery workshop at a family own embroidery factory, where you will learn the local secrets and get the chance to bring your own embroidery work.
 
Lunch (not included) will be served at a local cozy regional restaurant, where you can delight with local recipes.
 
After lunch, enjoy a private guided visit to Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
 
Pass by and visit the Sé Cathedral, a church dating back to the XV Century, direction to the Marketplace where you can admire a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish.
 
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, enjoy a private guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park.
The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.

End your day with a private visit followed by lectured wine tasting at a wine cellar.
 
Madeira's wine has been famous for over five centuries. It was a favorite of Napoleon, Russian czars, and of the United States' first president, George Washington. It was the wine chosen to toast the signing of America's Declaration of Independence and even Shakespeare wrote of Falstaff's willingness to trade his soul for "a cup of Madeira and a cold capon."
 
At the end of the day, your driver will take you back to the dock.

Includes: Transportation - Full-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (6 - 8 Hours); Expert Guide - Full-day at Disposal, as per itinerary (6 - 8 Hours); Private Embroidery Workshop; Wine Lodge Private Visit followed by Lectured Wine Tasting; Entrance fees at chapel of Sta. Catarina, Sé Cathedral, Botanical Garden (Optional); Private Visit & Embroidery Workshop (Optional).
Not feasible: Weekends and National Holidays.

Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.
 

Madeira Mountains Jeep Tour (8 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Madeira has a great natural beauty with tropical gardens and spectacular panoramic views. Its green mountains, cliffs, steep valleys, flowers, sun and its blue sea, happiness and hospitality melt together to create an island of sublime peace.

Meet and greet your expert chauffeur at the dock. Today, venture on a 4-wheel scenic drive with panoramic views, interesting places and sensational encounters with Madeira's natural heritage.
Your tour will continue through deep ravines, winding roads, cultivated fields falling into the sea and an abundance of Mediterranean and tropical plants are typical features of southern Madeira. The charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, a favorite spot of Winston Churchill is one of the few places on the island which has remained untouched by the passing of time.
 
Câmara de Lobos is an emblematic town, it is
one of the most ancient and historical places in the Island. This was one of first colonized places in Madeira, due to the easy accesses by sea with its charming bay, where nowadays several and varied colorful embarkations are docked. 
 
Pass by Fajã das Galinhas on your way to Boca da Corrida viewpoint. Located at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, it offers a magnificent view over the Curral das Freiras valley, Eira do Serrado and the central massif. Not far from Funchal hidden in between high mountains and deep valleys lie remote villages and hamlets such as Jardim da Serra with its splendid view over the Nuns valley.
 
Next stop will be Campanário, a verdant town with a splendid view over the sea. This town owes its name to an islet, similar to the bell tower of a church, which is situated along the coast.
 
Stop for lunch (not included) in a regional restaurant.
 
After lunch, your adventure will continue further west towards Cape Girão, an almost vertical promontory that rises 580 meters above the ocean, being the largest promontory in Europe and the second largest in the world.
 
Take a final stop at the Quinta Grande, to admire the vineyards of Madeira Wine.
 
Your driver will take you back to the dock.

Includes: Transportation - Full-Day Private Jeep Tour, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (8 Hours).

Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.

Madeira Mountains Jeep Tour (4 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Madeira has a great natural beauty with tropical gardens and spectacular panoramic views. Its green mountains, cliffs, steep valleys, flowers, sun and its blue sea, happiness and hospitality melt together to create an island of sublime peace.

Meet and greet your expert chauffeur at the dock. Today, venture on a 4-wheel scenic drive with panoramic views, interesting places and sensational encounters with Madeira's natural heritage.
Your tour will continue through deep ravines, winding roads, cultivated fields falling into the sea and an abundance of Mediterranean and tropical plants are typical features of southern Madeira. The charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, a favorite spot of Winston Churchill is one of the few places on the island which has remained untouched by the passing of time.
 
Câmara de Lobos is an emblematic town, it is
one of the most ancient and historical places in the Island. This was one of first colonized places in Madeira, due to the easy accesses by sea with its charming bay, where nowadays several and varied colorful embarkations are docked. 
 
Pass by Fajã das Galinhas on your way to Boca da Corrida viewpoint. Located at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, it offers a magnificent view over the Curral das Freiras valley, Eira do Serrado and the central massif. Not far from Funchal hidden in between high mountains and deep valleys lie remote villages and hamlets such as Jardim da Serra with its splendid view over the Nuns valley.
 
Next stop will be Campanário, a verdant town with a splendid view over the sea. This town owes its name to an islet, similar to the bell tower of a church, which is situated along the coast. Your adventure will continue further west in direction of the scenic viewpoint of Cabo Girão, an almost vertical promontory that rises at 580 meters above the ocean.
 
Your driver will take you back to the dock.

Includes: Transportation - Half-Day Private Jeep Tour, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (4 Hours).


Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.

Funchal Sightseeing HD D&G (3 - 4 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Meet your private chauffeur and expert guide at the dock.

Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.

Enjoy a private guided visit to Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
 
Pass by and visit the Sé Cathedral, a church dating back to the XV Century, direction to the Marketplace where you can admire a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish.
 
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, enjoy a private guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park. The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.

Ending the tour, your chauffeur will drop you off at the dock. 

Includes: Transportation - Half-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle with English Speaking Fluent Driver (3 - 4 Hours); Expert Guide - Half-Day at Disposal as per itinerary (3 - 4 Hours); Entrance Fees at Botanical garden; Driver and Guide Gratuities Included.

Note: 

• Not feasible on Holidays;
• According to restrictions related with Covid-19 implemented at the time of the booking, vehicle allocation may need revision.

Funchal at Your Leisure HD D&G (3 - 4 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Suggested Tour:
Meet your private chauffeur and expert guide at the dock.

We suggest you to get to know the Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.

To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, we suggest a guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park.
The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.

Ending the tour, your chauffeur will drop you off at the dock. 

Includes: Transportation - Half-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle with English Speaking Fluent Driver (3 - 4 Hours); Expert Guide - Half-Day at Disposal as per itinerary (3 - 4 Hours); Driver and Guide Gratuities Included.

Note: 

• Not feasible on Holidays;
• According to restrictions related with Covid-19 implemented at the time of the booking, vehicle allocation may need revision.

Madeira has been described as "Island of Eternal Spring". It is renowned for its wine, which many feel ranks among the world’s best. Funchal has a wide selection of resort hotels where watersports, golf and tennis are popular. Visitors can tour the 15th-century cathedral, orchid gardens of Quinta das Cruzes, and buildings associated with Christopher Columbus. Madeira’s discoverer, Zarco, is believed to have lived in the house Quinta das Cruzes. Now it displays furniture and paintings and is surrounded by fabulous gardens. The stunning 15th-century design of Sé Cathedral features white stucco with contrasting black basalt and red tufa rock; the ceiling is inlaid with ivory. Located near Town Hall, the Museum of Sacred Art contains art from several islands, including a group of 15th- and 16th-century paintings of Portuguese and Flemish schools. Visit colorful Mercado dos Lavradores during the morning to see flower vendors and fish and produce stands.

Excursions

Funchal History & Tradition (6 - 8 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
 
During the morning, indulge in a private embroidery workshop at a family own embroidery factory, where you will learn the local secrets and get the chance to bring your own embroidery work.
 
Lunch (not included) will be served at a local cozy regional restaurant, where you can delight with local recipes.
 
After lunch, enjoy a private guided visit to Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
 
Pass by and visit the Sé Cathedral, a church dating back to the XV Century, direction to the Marketplace where you can admire a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish.
 
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, enjoy a private guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park.
The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.

Ending the tour, your chauffeur will drop you off at the dock. 


Includes: Full-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (6 - 8 Hours); Expert Guide - Half-day at Disposal, as per itinerary (3 - 4 Hours); Entrance fees at chapel of Sta. Catarina, Sé Cathedral, Botanical Garden (Optional); Private Visit & Embroidery Workshop (Optional).
Not feasible: Weekends and National Holidays.

Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.
 

Funchal History & Wine (6 - 8 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
 
Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.
 
During the morning, indulge in a private embroidery workshop at a family own embroidery factory, where you will learn the local secrets and get the chance to bring your own embroidery work.
 
Lunch (not included) will be served at a local cozy regional restaurant, where you can delight with local recipes.
 
After lunch, enjoy a private guided visit to Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
 
Pass by and visit the Sé Cathedral, a church dating back to the XV Century, direction to the Marketplace where you can admire a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish.
 
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, enjoy a private guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park.
The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.

End your day with a private visit followed by lectured wine tasting at a wine cellar.
 
Madeira's wine has been famous for over five centuries. It was a favorite of Napoleon, Russian czars, and of the United States' first president, George Washington. It was the wine chosen to toast the signing of America's Declaration of Independence and even Shakespeare wrote of Falstaff's willingness to trade his soul for "a cup of Madeira and a cold capon."
 
At the end of the day, your driver will take you back to the dock.

Includes: Transportation - Full-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (6 - 8 Hours); Expert Guide - Full-day at Disposal, as per itinerary (6 - 8 Hours); Private Embroidery Workshop; Wine Lodge Private Visit followed by Lectured Wine Tasting; Entrance fees at chapel of Sta. Catarina, Sé Cathedral, Botanical Garden (Optional); Private Visit & Embroidery Workshop (Optional).
Not feasible: Weekends and National Holidays.

Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.
 

Madeira Mountains Jeep Tour (8 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Madeira has a great natural beauty with tropical gardens and spectacular panoramic views. Its green mountains, cliffs, steep valleys, flowers, sun and its blue sea, happiness and hospitality melt together to create an island of sublime peace.

Meet and greet your expert chauffeur at the dock. Today, venture on a 4-wheel scenic drive with panoramic views, interesting places and sensational encounters with Madeira's natural heritage.
Your tour will continue through deep ravines, winding roads, cultivated fields falling into the sea and an abundance of Mediterranean and tropical plants are typical features of southern Madeira. The charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, a favorite spot of Winston Churchill is one of the few places on the island which has remained untouched by the passing of time.
 
Câmara de Lobos is an emblematic town, it is
one of the most ancient and historical places in the Island. This was one of first colonized places in Madeira, due to the easy accesses by sea with its charming bay, where nowadays several and varied colorful embarkations are docked. 
 
Pass by Fajã das Galinhas on your way to Boca da Corrida viewpoint. Located at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, it offers a magnificent view over the Curral das Freiras valley, Eira do Serrado and the central massif. Not far from Funchal hidden in between high mountains and deep valleys lie remote villages and hamlets such as Jardim da Serra with its splendid view over the Nuns valley.
 
Next stop will be Campanário, a verdant town with a splendid view over the sea. This town owes its name to an islet, similar to the bell tower of a church, which is situated along the coast.
 
Stop for lunch (not included) in a regional restaurant.
 
After lunch, your adventure will continue further west towards Cape Girão, an almost vertical promontory that rises 580 meters above the ocean, being the largest promontory in Europe and the second largest in the world.
 
Take a final stop at the Quinta Grande, to admire the vineyards of Madeira Wine.
 
Your driver will take you back to the dock.

Includes: Transportation - Full-Day Private Jeep Tour, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (8 Hours).

Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.

Madeira Mountains Jeep Tour (4 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Madeira has a great natural beauty with tropical gardens and spectacular panoramic views. Its green mountains, cliffs, steep valleys, flowers, sun and its blue sea, happiness and hospitality melt together to create an island of sublime peace.

Meet and greet your expert chauffeur at the dock. Today, venture on a 4-wheel scenic drive with panoramic views, interesting places and sensational encounters with Madeira's natural heritage.
Your tour will continue through deep ravines, winding roads, cultivated fields falling into the sea and an abundance of Mediterranean and tropical plants are typical features of southern Madeira. The charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, a favorite spot of Winston Churchill is one of the few places on the island which has remained untouched by the passing of time.
 
Câmara de Lobos is an emblematic town, it is
one of the most ancient and historical places in the Island. This was one of first colonized places in Madeira, due to the easy accesses by sea with its charming bay, where nowadays several and varied colorful embarkations are docked. 
 
Pass by Fajã das Galinhas on your way to Boca da Corrida viewpoint. Located at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, it offers a magnificent view over the Curral das Freiras valley, Eira do Serrado and the central massif. Not far from Funchal hidden in between high mountains and deep valleys lie remote villages and hamlets such as Jardim da Serra with its splendid view over the Nuns valley.
 
Next stop will be Campanário, a verdant town with a splendid view over the sea. This town owes its name to an islet, similar to the bell tower of a church, which is situated along the coast. Your adventure will continue further west in direction of the scenic viewpoint of Cabo Girão, an almost vertical promontory that rises at 580 meters above the ocean.
 
Your driver will take you back to the dock.

Includes: Transportation - Half-Day Private Jeep Tour, with English Speaking Fluent Driver (4 Hours).


Note: This itinerary can also be applicable to regular city stays.

Funchal Sightseeing HD D&G (3 - 4 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Meet your private chauffeur and expert guide at the dock.

Meet your expert guide and private chauffeur at the dock.

Enjoy a private guided visit to Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.
 
Pass by and visit the Sé Cathedral, a church dating back to the XV Century, direction to the Marketplace where you can admire a variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and fish.
 
To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, enjoy a private guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park. The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.

Ending the tour, your chauffeur will drop you off at the dock. 

Includes: Transportation - Half-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle with English Speaking Fluent Driver (3 - 4 Hours); Expert Guide - Half-Day at Disposal as per itinerary (3 - 4 Hours); Entrance Fees at Botanical garden; Driver and Guide Gratuities Included.

Note: 

• Not feasible on Holidays;
• According to restrictions related with Covid-19 implemented at the time of the booking, vehicle allocation may need revision.

Funchal at Your Leisure HD D&G (3 - 4 Hours) — Optional Private Excursions


Suggested Tour:
Meet your private chauffeur and expert guide at the dock.

We suggest you to get to know the Santa Catarina Chapel, the first house of worship built in Madeira, in 1425. This chapel is located in the Santa Catarina Park. This temple features decorative elements of Manueline architecture and it is one of the most appreciable architectural monuments of the Manueline ogival in Madeira, notable for its arches, columns and spider mite vaults around the sacred body.

To finish the tour passing through the old part of town, we suggest a guided visit to the Botanical Garden one of the most beautiful gardens in the region, with marvelous views overlooking the city of Funchal. The estate dates from 1881 and was created by the Reid family as their private park.
The garden covers an area of 80,000 m² and is home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants. It also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.

Ending the tour, your chauffeur will drop you off at the dock. 

Includes: Transportation - Half-Day at Disposal, as per itinerary, by Deluxe Vehicle with English Speaking Fluent Driver (3 - 4 Hours); Expert Guide - Half-Day at Disposal as per itinerary (3 - 4 Hours); Driver and Guide Gratuities Included.

Note: 

• Not feasible on Holidays;
• According to restrictions related with Covid-19 implemented at the time of the booking, vehicle allocation may need revision.

The Canary Islands encompass such a variety of features that in the course of a day it is possible to pick bananas, throw snowballs, swim in the Atlantic and climb mountains. La Palma is the most western of the Canary Islands — and probably the greenest. Over seventy percent of the island is a natural preserve. La Palma has an abundance of wild plants and wild flowers, many of which only occur on La Palma, or only on the Canary islands.. For the adventurous, there are national parks with miles and miles of hiking trails to explore. Hike along the coast, through forests and up mountain peaks of up to 8,000 feet. There are also extinct and active volcanoes to hike around as well. Santa Cruz, the main port and capital of the island, is a charming Spanish town complete with a 17th century castle, a Renaissance church and an exquisite 16th century town hall. Here one can also find a mock-up of Columbus's ship The Santa Maria near the northern end of the boulevard by the maritime museum.

Destination Guide

El Hierro is the smallest of the Canary Islands and is located in the extreme southwest of the group - the 'edge of the ancient world'. It’s only 287 square meters in total and has an altitude of 1,501 meters.

It truly is a natural paradise. El Hierro has spectacular cliffs (up to 1,200 metres), lush green vegetation, large forests, protected species, gentle rolling hills, stunning lava formations and coves with natural pools for swimming. More than half of its beautiful landscape is protected by the Natural Spaces Act.

The Canary Archipelago, or Fortunate Islands, as they are often called, owe their fame and fortune to their geographical location and climate. Of volcanic origin, the islands lie off the African coast and encompass such a variety of features that in the course of a day it is possible to pick bananas, throw snowballs, swim in the Atlantic and climb mountains. Tenerife is the largest of Canaries. The south features a desert with grotesque rock formations and chunks of cooled lava. Further north stretch miles of green fields of bananas, tomatoes and potatoes. Mountain slopes are dotted with beech, eucalyptus and pine trees. The coastline is as varied as the areas inland, offering black, grey and golden sand, cliffs, tame beaches and wild capes. A spectacular example of past volcanic activity is Canadas crater which rings Mount Teide - the main feature of the island. At 12,198 feet, the cone-shaped Teide is the highest Spanish summit and nearly always snow-capped. A cable car is available to the top.

Destination Guide