A trip to the Spanish Islands: 11 paradises!

The Spanish islands in the Mediterranean Sea are a unique corner of Europe, where rich history, amazing nature and a variety of cultures merge. The Balearic and Canary Islands attract tourists from all over the world with their picturesque beaches, vibrant architecture and delicious cuisine. In this article, we'll take a closer look at each of these islands and tell you which places to visit.

1. Formentera

Formentera is one of the islands of the Pitiusa archipelago, located in the southwest of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea. It is famous for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, making it an ideal place for diving and snorkeling. 

One of the main attractions of Formentera is its lighthouses, which offer impressive views of the cliffs. Cape Barbaria is known for its film appearances and La Cueva Foradada, which leads to a balcony with beautiful views. The La Mola lighthouse, located at the highest point of the island, is a symbol of Formentera, and the La Savina lighthouse is also worth a visit.

2. Ibiza

Ibiza is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea off the east coast of the Iberian Peninsula. When it comes to Ibiza, the first thing that comes to mind is the vibrant parties that last from dusk to dawn. An annual club season that attracts fun-loving people from all over the world, but it also has a rich cultural heritage.

The Cova de Can Marçà Cave is one of Ibiza's natural attractions. It is more than 100 thousand years old and is located near the resort of San Miguel. Throughout its existence, stalactites and stalagmites have formed inside the cave, which have taken unusual shapes. In addition, you can see a waterfall and an underground lake there. Ibiza is home to the ancient city of Dalt Vila, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historic walls and architecture.

3. Homera

La Gomera is one of the greenest Canary Islands and is known for its picturesque landscapes. The island is home to the Garoja National Park, which is home to unique species of plants and animals, including rare species of lizards.

The relict laurel forests are the main attraction of La Gomera. Once they covered almost the entire European continent, but now they have survived only in a few corners of the world. On La Gomera, laurel forests form a unique climatic zone with a very high level of humidity. There are many hiking trails in these forests.

4. Mallorca

Mallorca is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea, the largest of the Balearic Islands, popular among tourists for beach holidays. Due to its geographical location, diversity of nature and landscape, Mallorca is often called the "Diamond of the Mediterranean".

Fun fact: Mallorca is home to the Cathedral of La Seu, which took over 400 years to build and is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe.

5. Menorca

Menorca is one of the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean Sea that gets its name from its smaller size compared to neighboring Mallorca. The island is famous for its tranquil atmosphere and many archaeological sites.

It is worth visiting Binibeka – it is a charming little fishing town. Its narrow, winding streets, lined with white houses, beckon you to get lost and find beautiful, well-groomed corners.

6. Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is an island with a diverse climate and nature. The island that is the most popular with tourists in the Canary archipelago and is the third largest after Tenerife and Fuerteventura.

The Maspalomas Dune is located here, which is a unique ecosystem with sand dunes, lakes and oases.

7. Tenerife 

Tenerife is the largest of the archipelago of the Canary Islands. Many people wonder which continent Tenerife belongs to: Europe or Africa? Despite the fact that the archipelago is located in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, not far from the coasts of Morocco and Western Sahara, it is the territory of Spain.

Fun fact: La Orotava National Park around Mount Teide is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

8. Hierro

El Hierro is the smallest and least populated of the Canary Islands. This is a great place if you want to avoid the crowds of tourists filling the more famous neighboring islands of Tenerife and La Palma.

Since 2014, the island of Hierro has achieved full energy independence, relying on a combined electricity generation system that combines wind energy and hydroelectric power.

9. Lanzarote

Lanzarote impresses with its volcanic landscapes and unique architecture. Lanzarote is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are many trails and hiking trails waiting for you, and surfers can enjoy excellent waves, especially in the Famara area.

Interesting fact: here is the Timanfaya National Park, where you can see geothermal phenomena and unusual landscapes created by volcanic activity.

10. Fuerteventura

It is one of the windiest islands in the Canary archipelago, making it a popular destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

In the city of Morro Jable in Fuerteventura, there is a center dedicated to the conservation of Carreta sea turtles and their breeding in the waters of the Canary Islands. Here you can visit the nursery, and if you are lucky, you can see how the turtles are released into the open sea. This event often takes place at Cofete Beach.

11. Palm Tree

Palma is an island located in the Atlantic Ocean that is part of the Canary archipelago and belongs to the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. 

Interesting fact: Palma is one of the youngest islands in the archipelago. The island has volcanic mountains and rainforests, and is also home to rare species of plants and animals. In 2002, UNESCO recognized the island of Palma as a world reserve.

The Spanish islands not only attract tourists with their beauty, but also offer a rich cultural heritage and a variety of leisure and entertainment opportunities.