With year-round sunshine and temperatures that consistently hover around the 20°C mark, the Canary Islands are the obvious choice for those looking to escape long, dark days and dreary weather.
According to a study by climatologist Thomas Whitmore, the Canary Islands have the ‘best climate in the world’. Combine that with golden beaches, a welcoming community and short flights from the UK, and it’s easy to see why these islands are a top choice for expats seeking a better quality of life.
A picture-perfect street on Gran Canaria
Why is life on the Canary Islands so appealing to expats?
The Canary Islands have long been a haven for expats, with expat communities dating back to the 1800s. As of the end of 2021, the number of foreigners living on the islands is around 290,000 – a tenth of which are British.
Life on the islands revolves around relaxation, whether it’s enjoying the beaches, wandering around markets or sampling local wine.
A highlight for many is the strong tradition of artisanal crafts and produce like honey, cheese and wine. For instance, the Mercado in Teror on Gran Canaria offers everything from handmade ceramics to the famous chorizo de Teror.
The Canary Islands for families
If you have children, the Canary Islands are the ideal location. Thanks to an outdoor lifestyle, children are likely to be much more active than they would be living somewhere less sunny.
When it comes to schooling, you’re spoilt for choice. Local schools are perfect for younger children to quickly learn Spanish, while there are many international schools for older children who may struggle with language, or those needing continuity in their studies. Options include the British School of Gran Canaria and the American School of Las Palmas.
Travel to and around the islands
There are eight airports across the Canary Islands – including Tenerife South and Lanzarote – and you’ll find plenty of regular flights to and from major cities like London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast and Dublin.
Inter-island travel between islands is easy, thanks to a comprehensive ferry service, with fast connections like Tenerife to Gran Canaria taking just an hour.
Healthcare on the Canary Islands
Spain’s healthcare system is considered world class and ranks highly compared to other EU countries. With more than 11 hospitals across the Canary Islands, residents on every main island can access high-quality care.
Traditional houses on Tenerife
Where to buy: Canary Island highlights
There are so many desirable locations in the Canary Islands, it can be tough to decide where you like best. To help you choose, here are some of our favourite areas on the region’s main islands:
Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest island, offering everything from coastal living in Los Cristianos to peaceful inland retreats like Chayofa.
For a mix of beach life and urban convenience, consider the resort town of Los Gigantes, famed for its dramatic rock formations.
Gran Canaria
Home to both historic towns like Las Palmas and lively resort like Playa del Inglés, Gran Canaria caters to varied tastes.
If you’re after a quieter, more traditional lifestyle, Agaete’s fishing village charm or Fataga’s mountain tranquillity might suit you better.
Lanzarote
Known for its lunar-like landscapes, Lanzarote is one of the most unique islands in the Canary Island region. Playa Blanca is a favourite among beach lovers, with the unspoilt Papagaya beach close by. Arrecife, the island’s capital, is great if you prefer more urban living.
The northern areas offer a more serene environment. In the northwest there’s Caleta de Famara, but bear in mind that it can be windier than the east coast, as it faces the Atlantic.
Steps to buying property in the Canary Islands
If you are considering buying a home in the Canary Islands, there are four main things to do next:
- Do some research: When choosing your ideal location, consider your lifestyle preferences and budget. Then decide what type of property is right for you. Browse hundreds of Canary Islands properties on our property portal.
- Plan a viewing trip: We can put you in touch with local agents to shortlist and visit properties. Email us at [email protected] to arrange a trip.
- Consult a legal expert: Make contact with a solicitor to ensure all paperwork meets Spanish regulations.
- Secure your finances: Speak to a currency specialist to manage your budget and mitigate exchange rate risks.
Conclusion
With a home in the Canary Islands you can enjoy a sunny, relaxed lifestyle all year round. You’ll also benefit from excellent healthcare and amenities and a welcoming expat community.
Start your journey today by browsing properties, downloading the Spain Buying Guide and connecting with trusted professionals.
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