The wait is over: the Canary Islands are no longer classified as a risk area by many countries, including Austria and Germany. This means that travel to the fascinating archipelago in the Atlantic is finally possible again. Due to the proximity to the European mainland, the year-round mild climate, and the different islands' variety, the Canaries are considered a true holiday paradise. Nevertheless, there are still a lot of secret places on the seven islands. Hotspots to discover. 

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1. gran canaria

Gran Canaria boasts countless hours of sunshine, vibrant nightlife and a great variety of activities. Because of the diverse landscapes on the island, Gran Canaria is often referred to as a mini-continent, combining massive cliffs, dry valleys, desert-like areas, wide sandy beaches, high dunes, and plants from Europe, America and Africa. A real eye-catcher is the old lighthouse of Maspalomas, which has been showing the way to ships off the coast of the island since 1890. In the laurel forest of Los Tilos de Moya, a series of panoramic circular walks await guests.

2. lanzarote

Those who land on Lanzarote feel transported to another world. The originality is shown in breathtaking moon and crater landscapes; black lava rock and ash form a wonderful contrast to the white houses and the deep blue sea off the coast. As the most beautiful beach on the island and maybe even of the whole archipelago, Playa Mujeres is considered a real insider tip. The mostly natural beach consists of pebbles and sand - the sea is turquoise and crystal clear. In addition, the mystical rock formations of Guatiza are always worth a visit. The bizarre place was once created by man and still enchants with its ghostly flair.

3. el Hierro

El Hierro is the smallest of the Canary Islands and has remained largely untouched by mass tourism. There are no large hotels, instead, visitors stay in small "casas" or villas, usually with a fantastic view of the sea. Bathing possibilities are rather rare - the few natural pebble and sand beaches are all the more beautiful, framed by impressive volcanic rock formations, with coloured sand or natural swimming pools. The Iglesia de la Concepción is the fortress church of the island capital Valverde and is one of the most magnificent buildings on El Hierro - a sightseeing must for all island visitors. The lighthouse Faro de Orchilla on the west coast of the island is no less impressive - the imposing building marked not only the westernmost point of the Canary Islands but also of the known world in the past.

4. fuerteventura

Beach, sun, sea, waves - Fuerteventura is not only the oldest Canary Island but is also considered the bathing paradise of the archipelago. The comparatively flat landscape consists mostly of miles of wide sandy beaches, many of which exude Caribbean charm. In addition, the island is one of the most sought-after surfing spots in the Canaries. Divers also appreciate the island, especially because of the numerous underground cave systems off the coast. The sun is (nearly) constantly shining on Fuerteventura and makes the island a dream destination at any time of the year. Holidaymakers will find the most beautiful village on the island in Betancuria. The community is both the smallest and the most historically significant place on Fuerteventura. For those looking for even more deceleration, a visit to the caves of Los Molinos on the island's west coast is advised. There is no mobile phone reception - but a magnificent natural spectacle and plenty of fine sandy beach.

5. tenerife

The largest island of the Canaries promises holiday enjoyment for the young and old. Bathing, hiking, water sports, sightseeing - everything can be perfectly combined on Tenerife. The landscape of the island is also diverse: impressive cliffs and mountain massifs including Spain's highest mountain, the Pico el Teide, beautiful beaches, lush and flowering vegetation zones as well as fruit and vegetable plantations in the highlands make Tenerife an experience for all the senses. A special highlight is a bath in the lava pool of Garachico - the natural pool is located on the north coast of the island and was created by volcanic activities. No less worth seeing is the picturesque beach Playa de la Teita, which extends directly next to the majestic volcanic cone Montaña Roja on a length of about one kilometre and enchants with black sand.

6. la palma

The island of La Palma lives up to its name and is above all one thing: wonderfully green! Of course, the island also offers beautiful beaches with black volcanic sand, but due to the extremely steep coasts, the northwesternmost of the Canary Islands is only partly suitable for swimming. Instead, the island attracts holidaymakers who want to spend some quiet days in a beautiful natural idyll and marvel at the forests, gorges and sea views on a dense network of well-developed hiking trails. An unknown hotspot on La Palma is the village of Santo Domingo de Garafia in the north of the island. Here, time seems to stand still - the village is full of ancient buildings and yet captivates traditional charm. The smugglers' bay Prois Candelaria also knows how to inspire: simple little houses built close to the rock cluster in the shadow of a rock overhang around a picturesque stretch of coast.

7. la Gomera

La Gomera is an exotic paradise away from mass tourism and was once considered a dropout and hippie stronghold. The island shows itself untouched to visitors. Instead of huge hotels, small holiday homes and fincas are spread all over La Gomera, nestling in lush forests, colourful gardens and wide palm groves. In addition to a handful of beaches in the seaside resorts, there are hidden, deserted coves around the island that can only be reached on foot. From the Mirador de El Rejo viewpoint, travellers can enjoy a unique panoramic view over the picturesque valley of Hermigua. If you prefer to be enchanted by ancient myths instead, seek out the Chorros de Epina spring. The place is a popular summer destination for locals and promises eternal love to all who drink the water from the spring.