About Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is part of the Spanish Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean, situated off the northwest coast of Africa. Due to the different climates and a variety of landscapes found on Gran Canaria, it’s commonly referred to as a ‘miniature continent’. Its diverse terrain comprises long beaches and dunes of white sand contrasting with green ravines and picturesque villages, whilst a third of the island has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Although it’s only the third largest island, Gran Canaria makes up almost half of the population of the Canaries, which means vibrant bars, exquisite restaurants and fascinating museums are readily available. Due to its centrality in the Canaries, Gran Canaria is a great departure point for the other islands in the archipelago. You can also sail to a couple of ports on mainland Spain, so there’s no shortage of ferry options.

About Madeira Islands

Madeira is a small Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean comprising a namesake island, Porto Santo and a few unpopulated islets. Famed for its year-round mild climate and stunning scenery, Madeira has rightfully earned the nicknames ‘islands of eternal spring’ and ‘pearl of the Atlantic’. It’s also renowned for producing the popular Madeira wine and exquisite cuisine, helping it become one of Portugal’s most visited regions. The capital, Funchal is set before dramatic coastal mountains, boasting beautiful architecture, excellent snorkelling spots and a bustling ‘Old Zone’ with quirky streets and superb restaurants. While Madeira Island is the archipelago’s cultural hub, the idyllic Porto Santo offers nine kilometres of white sandy beach and a refreshingly laidback atmosphere. Ferries run frequently between the ports of Funchal and Porto Santo, operated by a popular local ferry company, making it even easier to explore the beautiful Madeira Islands.