The last trip I took while abroad in Madrid was to the Canary Islands. It wasn’t for leisure, rather a trip for my astronomy course. In order to pass, we had to spend four days in the Canary Islands and complete lab observations. To say this was my favorite school trip ever would be an understatement. Science was never my strongest subject in school, but I fell in love with astronomy during this trip. The Canary Islands has near-perfect weather conditions, making it great for star gazing.
Below, I’m sharing some of the things I did in La Palma and Tenerife:
Accomodation.
H10 Taburiente Playa
I highly recommend this hotel if you’re visiting La Palma. It’s close to the Los Cancajos beach and has a lot to offer! From swimming pools, to ocean views from your terrace, and beautiful decor. There’s something for everyone.
Play.
Playa De Los Cancajos
Located on La Palma island, Playa De Los Cancajos provides a beautiful black sand beach. The crystal clear water washing up on the black sand was memorizing. South of the capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, Playa De Los Cancajos offers many bars, cafes and restaurants. I’ve never seen a beach so clean and untouched! At low tide you can spot crabs hanging out on the rocks.
El Caletón de Garachico
Go for a swim in this natural pool! Garachico was once a thriving port but mother nature had other plans. Garachico has dealt with floods, fires, plagues and the Montaña Negra volcano erupting. The lava from the eruption formed many natural pools, like El Caletón. El Caletón is probably the most famous natural pool in Garachico. There’s shallow and deep parts to the natural pool, so you can relax or plunge from a rock!
Teide Observatory
An astronomical observatory located on Mount Teide, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit the observatory and look at the clouds below you. I was fortunate enough to spend several nights in this observatory (yes, I slept here too). Watching the sunrise and sunset above the clouds is something I’ll remember for the rest of my life. Be aware that it’s very windy when you’re that high up. It can also be very cold during the evening, so pack appropriately.
Roque de los Muchachos Observatory
This observatory, located in La Palma, is home to the largest optical telescopes. It’s also the second best location for astronomers in the northern hemisphere. Like the Teide Observatory, Roque de los Muchachos offers stunning views above the clouds.
Eat.
Sabor Isleño
After beachin’ it at Playa De Los Cancajos, head over to Sabor Isleño for some drinks! The staff was friendly when I went, even giving my group and I free shots.
The Canary Island provided a lot of firsts for me. First time experiencing a black sand beach, natural pool, being above the clouds and sleeping in an observatory. I’d HIGHLY recommend everyone experience the Canary Islands at some point in their life!
Have you been to any of the Canary Islands? What was your favorite island? Let me know in the comments!
