Fancy a break in the Canaries? These four destinations can all be reached directly from Cork

In a new series, CORK AIRPORT GETAWAYS, we run through the 27 destinations which you can fly to from Cork in January, to help you choose your weekend break or holiday. Today, KELLY O’BRIEN assesses the four options in the Canary Islands
Fancy a break in the Canaries? These four destinations can all be reached directly from Cork

Playa Blanca beach on Lanzarote.

It’s close by and accessible, parking is easy, security is invariably quick and stress-free, and the staff usually have time to say hello...

Little wonder we Corkonians love to use our local airport: Our weekend break or holiday begins the moment we enter its doors.

This month, there are 27 destinations you can reach from Cork, but which one to choose?

In a new series starting today, Cork Airport Getaways, we assess each destination to help you decide, starting with the four Canary Islands airports you can reach from Leeside.

Tenerife: Island of Eternal Spring and Endless Adventure

Aer Lingus/Ryanair flights from Cork every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.

It has never been easier for Corkonians to swap the drizzle for the year-round warmth of Tenerife. The largest island in the Canaries, it offers a wealth of experiences to suit those searching for adventure, relaxation, or a healthy dose of both.

One of its most iconic attractions is the formidable Mount Teide - the highest peak in all of Spain, and a dormant volcano to boot. Standing at an impressive 3,715 metres, Teide is actually the third highest volcanic structure in the world.

It can be experienced in a number of ways; hike the whole mountain (tough), get the cable car up most of the mountain to a viewpoint (easy), or take the cable car up the mountain then hike the rest of the way to the summit (the best of both worlds!).

If your goal is to summit Teide, planning ahead is key - a permit is needed from the local authority. It’s free, but they are limited and snapped up months in advance.

If you can’t nab a permit, the views from the top cable car station are still well worth the trip. Arriving early in the day allows you to enjoy the views without the added stress of parking since space is somewhat limited at the bottom cable car station.

Paragliding off Mount Teide is an unforgettable experience. Launching yourself off a volcano, literally towards clouds until the wind catches you and the ground disappears from beneath your feet, is thrilling yet oddly serene. A number of recommended companies offer flights, suitable even for beginners.

For water lovers, a submarine tour is a fascinating alternative to scuba diving. Descend beneath the waves to explore a world of vibrant marine life, including fish, stingrays, and even a sunken boat wreck. It’s a family-friendly activity that offers a glimpse into the underwater wonders of Tenerife without needing to get wet.

As with all Canaries islands, renting a car is highly recommended if you want an adventure-packed holiday. It’s the best way to explore the diverse attractions, from the lush Anaga Rural Park to the dramatic cliffs of Los Gigantes. For a more relaxed trip focused on sunbathing and lounging on the beach, taxis and buses will likely be all you need.

For those seeking indoor relaxation in Tenerife, the Aqua Club Termal spa offers a range of treatments and thermal circuits.

Lanzarote: A Volcanic Wonderland of Art and Nature

Aer Lingus flights from Cork every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday; Ryanair flights from Cork every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Many areas of Lanzarote could easily be (very accurately) described as stark, volcanic, and otherworldly. At times, wandering around it feels like exploring a different planet.

Of course, like all Canary islands, it has its fair share of beautiful beaches. Flying here and heading straight for sun, sand and sangria is entirely possible… but it would be doing a big disservice to the real draw of the island - its formidable volcanic heart.

As such, the main attraction is undoubtedly the famous Timanfaya National Park, where Lanzarote’s raw volcanic power is on full display.

A guided tour will likely include an impressive show-and-tell - with the aid of a metal rod, your guide will showcase stuffing straw into one of the many hot funnels to be found in the area. A few short seconds later, the straw will ignite in a burst of flames - a small yet powerful reminder of the island’s volcanic origins.

No visit to Timanfaya would be complete without a visit to El Diablo restaurant. Meals are cooked using only geothermal energy produced by the volcano. Despite some diners noting the higher-than-average prices, this is a one-of-a-kind experience for anyone keen to enjoy Lanzarote’s volcanic energy in an unusual way.

For a slightly calmer outing, check out the Jardin de Cactus in Guatiza. A stunning cactus garden, designed by legendary César Manrique, it is home to hundreds of weird and wonderful cacti, from tiny spiky ones to towering, twisting specimens.

A fantastic place to marvel at nature’s quirky creations - and also a great place for photos!

If beaches are more your thing, both Papagayo and Playa Blanca feature crystal-clear waters and pristine sands. Famara Beach is the place for more active pursuits, like surfing and kite-surfing, offering plenty of space and consistent winds.

Lanzarote is also a cultural gem, thanks to César Manrique. His works, such as the Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes, blend seamlessly with the island’s volcanic beauty, creating spaces that are both artistic and natural. His legacy is a testament to Lanzarote’s unique charm.

Gran Canaria: A Miniature Continent of Sun, Sand, and Surprises

Ryanair flights from Cork every Thursday and Sunday.

Gran Canaria offers a fascinating contrast. Known as a ‘miniature continent’ for its varied terrain, this island provides everything from golden beaches to lush mountains and bustling city life.

It has volcanic mountains, lush forests, charming villages, AND the most vibrant and cosmopolitan capital in the Canaries.

Many visitors begin their journey in the capital, Las Palmas, in the old town area of Vegueta. Undeniably the prettiest part of Las Palmas, Vegueta is an enchanting mix of vibrant tapas bars, colonial architecture, and charming cobbled streets. It’s also home to an interesting museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus.

But for beachgoers, Playa del Inglés and the famous Maspalomas are the more iconic destinations. At the latter, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were on the set of Dune. It’s an almost otherworldly landscape, but the perfect spot for a long walk, sunbathing, or, in low season, simply escaping from the hustle and bustle.

For a faster pace of life, other parts of Gran Canaria cater to watersports aficionados, offering activities such as parasailing, kayaking, boat rides, and jet ski rental.

It’s definitely a destination where you can balance adventure and relaxation, depending on your mood.

While the beaches are a main draw for many, Gran Canaria’s hidden gems are what set it apart from more tourist-laden islands. Take Bufadero La Garita, a natural wonder on the north coast, which is essentially a very large, open blowhole - waves crash against the rocks and send water shooting into the air, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight. A great spot for nature-lovers and photographers.

Stepping back in time, none-too-serious Sioux City is an experience that brings the Wild West back to life. This cowboy-themed park features ‘old’ saloons, musical numbers, staged shoot-outs, and an undeniable Western flair. It’s light-hearted, fun, and makes a refreshing change from the usual beach activities.

Gran Canaria also caters well for families, with Aqualand one of the best water parks in Europe.

For adventure-seekers, the highest point on the island, Pico de Nieves, offers fantastic hiking and gorgeous panoramic views. For something even more exhilarating, a dune buggy ride across the island’s rugged terrain is an unforgettable experience.

Fuerteventura: Windswept Shores and Serene Escapes

Ryanair flights from Cork every Saturday

Unlike the more bustling, tourist-heavy shores of Tenerife or Gran Canaria, life is a little slower and more relaxed in Fuerteventura. This makes it ideal for anyone looking to escape the crowds - particularly in the height of summer.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced holiday with lots of nightlife, one of the other islands in the archipelago is likely a better choice. But, for those seeking just a bit more solitude without sacrificing golden beaches and year-round sunshine, Fuerteventura is definitely worth consideration.

In of beaches, the area around Corralejo is the most famous, with characteristic sweeping dunes stretching into infinity. If it wasn’t for the stunning turquoise waters, one would be forgiven for thinking they’d wandered into a desert.

While a long walk on the beach is a perfect activity for Corralejo, it also happens to be one of the top spots in Europe for kite-surfing. The strong winds that make it such a popular activity here give laid-back Fuerteventura a more adventurous alter ego - a unique persona which somewhat sets it apart from the other islands.

If even Fuerteventura ends up too active for you, visitors can catch a ferry to the even slower-paced Isla de Lobos, just off the coast. Here, it’s all about nature - ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply relaxing on a quiet beach. It’s a serene escape that feels worlds apart from the busier spots on the island, offering a peaceful retreat for those who crave solitude.

For a touch of culture, the inland town of Betancuria, the historic capital, offers a charming escape from the coastline. With its cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings, it’s like stepping back in time. Santa Maria Church stands as a reminder of Fuerteventura’s past, while the craft shops are perfect for browsing.

As much as Fuerteventura has to offer, it’s important to note it’s not quite as fun-filled as some of the Canary Islands... which makes it all the more special for some people, and not special at all for others.

But if you’re looking to unwind, enjoy time in nature, and indulge in possibly the most authentic Canarian culture - it is the island for you. The strong winds might take a bit of getting used to, but at least they keep temperatures comfortable, making it an ideal year-round destination.

Tomorrow: In part two of our series, we assess the five destinations on the Spanish mainland you can fly to from Cork Airport.

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