An Accessible Guide to the Canary Islands

Size: px

Start display at page:

Download "An Accessible Guide to the Canary Islands"

Bernice Hardy
6 years ago
Views:

1 An Accessible Guide to the Canary Islands

2 Have you dreamed of basking in the sun, smelling the salt of the ocean, or watching sunsets from a sandy beach? With 7 islands to choose from, the Canary Islands are your perfect destination for sunny seashores, high mountain tops, and a tropical climate that is sure to please for all types of Travellers. Traveling here may have once seemed daunting to folks with special mobility needs, but with a little planning, you ll find that you can make your Spanish island destination dreams come true. In this guide we will highlight, What to See, Things to Do and how to get around in Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura. For a great holiday in Tenerife Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, offers many accessible options and showcases the highest mountain in Spain at 12,200 feet. From warm spring-like weather and beautiful waters to an exciting theme park and water sports, Tenerife has everything you need to enjoy and relax on holiday.

3 Things to Do in Tenerife Take a Drive Known for its gorgeous scenery, a drive around Tenerife becomes an event all on its own. You will experience long, meandering mountain roads that pass the most exotic flora and fauna. City of Arona A perfect destination for sunbathing, the city strives for accessibility. The beaches here offer stunning shorelines for those with special mobility needs including obstacle free facilities and adapted infrastructures. Santa Cruz The capital of Tenerife is Santa Cruz and is host to an abundance of cultural activities. One must-see location, the Museum of Nature and Man, built in 1745, is an excellent example of neoclassical architecture. It was also the first museum in Tenerife to receive the Universal Accessibility Management System Certificate. Siam Park You have to visit this colourful theme park to enjoy incredible water rides, and tasty treats in a setting inspired by Thailand! Then make your way down the wide paths to see water life such as sea-lions and koi fish! Check their website for all the main attractions at

Loro Parque Catch an exciting show put on various animal performers at this incredible zoo and park. Considered a top-rated zoo for the uniqueness and attention to detail in the natural habitats.

This natural wonder of the world features a volcano towering 3,718 meters above sea level, craters, vents, and an array of other geological wonders.

4 Loro Parque Catch an exciting show put on various animal performers at this incredible zoo and park. Considered a top-rated zoo for the uniqueness and attention to detail in the natural habitats. Mount Teide Lastly, a visit to Tenerife is incomplete without first gazing upon the peaks of Mount Teide. This natural wonder of the world features a volcano towering 3,718 meters above sea level, craters, vents, and an array of other geological wonders. The Alto de Guamazo path within the boundaries of Teide National Park offers a fully accessible, flat trail for wheelchairs. Here you can experience nature at its best and see volcanic cones up close and personal. Mount Teide is the third highest volcanic structure and most voluminous in the world after Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea in Hawaii Source: Volcanoteide.com/en/national_park/teide_volcano

5 Accessible Accommodations Tenerife Explore all the gorgeous rental properties that Tenerife has to offer, many including amazing views of the beach and water. Firstly choose the level of access you require from our three levels of accessibility to suit all travellers needs, including large groups. Then, book your accessible rental with Handiscover by choosing the level of access you require. Finally, Let us help you have the holiday you deserve with our rentals and more! How to Get Around Tenerife Wide, smooth walkways make travel by wheelchair and scooter a breeze. Hire a car to explore the more secluded areas of the island When you book your Handiscover stay we can also arrange for the delivery of mobility equipment and advise you on the availability of accessible vehicles and drivers. Let Handiscover help you have the Tenerife trip of a lifetime with our Accessible Holiday Rentals Tenerife. We guarantee you stress-free comfort with our accessible rental options.

Lanzarote Visit this desert island marked

6 Lanzarote Visit this desert island marked by a mysterious history and a landscape created by volcanic eruptions and white sands. Perfect for a beach holiday, enjoy the warm weather, varied landscape, and national park. Let Handiscover help you discover all that Lanzarote has to offer by booking one of our Accessible Holiday Rentals Lanzarote Lanzarote is a Desert and Beach Retreat Island. Best of both Worlds!

7 Things to Do in Lanzarote Diving When you re seeking adventure, what could be better than scuba diving? The Daivoon Diving School in Costa Teguise has instructors with expertise in teaching diving to disabled travellers. Your senses will awaken as you absorb the magnificent beauty of the abundant marine life found in the reefs, shipwrecks, and other amazing dive sites. Also, you can find other Diving excursions for people with reduced mobility at Yumping where you experience an underwater Sea Trek for 35 mins. Check it out at here Photo Credit: Yumping.com

Playa Blanca Experience the newest resort of Lanzarote.

8 Puerto del Carmen Puerto del Carmen features beaches with wooden walkways designed for crossing the sand. You will also find beach-enabled wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms and lowered showers. Playa Blanca Experience the newest resort of Lanzarote. Playa Blanca is filled with beautiful white sand and reflects its namesake. Take a ferry to this small but beautiful community that includes schools, restaurants, and shopping along with all the beach fun you need for a holiday.

Timanfaya National Park Considered the top attraction of Lanzarote, the national park is

Travel here to view amazing landscapes that have gone unchanged for centuries.

Then, listen to your guide tell you about the area before being dropped off.

Spanish National Park, in the southwestern part of Lanzarote LagOmar Museum After enjoying

While touring the museum, take notice of the formation of the structure and labyrinth of

9 Timanfaya National Park Considered the top attraction of Lanzarote, the national park is covered by volcanic ash that was spilt nearly 300 years ago. Travel here to view amazing landscapes that have gone unchanged for centuries. Then, take a bus to Montañas del Fuego (Mountains of Fire). Then, listen to your guide tell you about the area before being dropped off. Afterwards, enjoy a meal at the restaurant and then visit the shops. Spanish National Park, in the southwestern part of Lanzarote LagOmar Museum After enjoying so much outdoor activity, consider a visit to the LagOmar Museum. While touring the museum, take notice of the formation of the structure and labyrinth of rocks. The design of the museum is created within the same rock from which it was built. It s an architecture that was inspired by Arabian nights mythology and includes magnificent caves and other built-in natural features.

Accessible Accomodations Lanzarote At Handiscover.com, begin by selecting the level of access you need from our easy guide then browse our selection of rentals.

10 Accessible Accomodations Lanzarote At Handiscover.com, begin by selecting the level of access you need from our easy guide then browse our selection of rentals. Then, choose from such offerings as seaside villas, posh apartments, and cozy bungalows. Finally, book with us to start planning a trip of a lifetime! How to Get Around Lanzarote Take buses and taxes to get around most easily. Avoid walking and biking because high winds make this difficult. Hire a driver and guide to get you to the more secluded areas of Lanzarote and discover your own private hideaway! Gran Canaria

For a great holiday in Gran Canaria Known as The

diverse cultures, foods and attractions.

to take in the architecture and beautiful flora.

vastly different climates and landscapes.

preserved the natural beauty of over one-third of its

11 For a great holiday in Gran Canaria Known as The Continent in Miniature, this island is packed with diverse cultures, foods and attractions. Come here for a beach vacation, a culinary tour and to take in the architecture and beautiful flora. The mini-continent, has got its name, due to its vastly different climates and landscapes. Designated as a biosphere reserve, this island has preserved the natural beauty of over one-third of its surface, allowing the natural flora and fauna to thrive. The Continent in Miniature - Gran Canaria

Things to do in Gran Canaria Palmitos Park One of the best places to see tropical flowers, exotic birds, rare mammals, and even dolphins, all in just one location, is the zoo-like Palmitos Park.

12 Things to do in Gran Canaria Palmitos Park One of the best places to see tropical flowers, exotic birds, rare mammals, and even dolphins, all in just one location, is the zoo-like Palmitos Park. You can watch as majestic dolphins swim in 3 different pools and then interact with the tropical birds in their natural habitat and take in the stunning House of Orchids and Cactus Gardens. While most of the park is fully wheelchair accessible, you ll probably want to visit with someone who is capable of providing push assistance. There are some steeper paths throughout the park. Photo Credit: Palmitos Parks

13 Cueva Pintada Museum & Archaeological Park Archaeological treasures overflow at the Cueva Pintada Museum & Archaeological Park. Rather than being on the side of a cliff, this gem is right in the heart of town and is well known for being wheelchair friendly. This museum highlights life in Gran Canaria before the conquistadors arrived and displays the remains of cave homes dug out of volcanic rock. The most renowned exhibition by far though is the painted cave. Due to prior degradation of this rare archaeological find, it is viewed through glass and in short 4-minute increments, which is intended to preserve this rich, historical site. Check about reservations, as tours have only 20 guests per visit. Rare opportunity to learn about Gran Canaria's pre-hispanic people and their cave paintings. at the Cueva Pintada Museum & Archaeological Park

14 Scuba Diving Gran Canaria offers one of the best scuba diving experiences in all of Europe. Dive in to see the remarkable variety of sea life. Specialty diving programs can assist those with mobility issues to get the most out of this amazing experience. Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo: El Jardín (Botanical Garden) The Botanical Garden is 27 acres of land and with over 500 species of plant, which await you in this scenic attraction, which is suitable for all ages. Meander through the grounds to see a cactus garden, Laurel-Leaved Forest and then the Fountain of the Wisemen. Disabled Accommodations Gran Canaria Gran Canaria s rental options are as diverse as the rest of the island. Stay in rustic self-catering apartments, modern rooms or large homes suitable for many guests. Choose the level of access you require then let Handiscover help you discover the right vacation rental for you! How to Get Around Gran Canaria Take public transportation for an affordable and well-organised mode of transportation. Then, to get to other islands, you can take the ferry. Rental cars are also available, and trains or trams are not on the island.

For a Great Holiday in Fuerteventura The 2nd largest island of the Canaries has over 150 beaches that span over 90 sand-laden miles. Divided into 6 municipalities, Fuerteventura has tons to explore.

Photo: Fuerteventura Flag Beach This island boasts a less touristy experience and you ll probably even be able to find a secluded beachfront even during the summer months.

15 For a Great Holiday in Fuerteventura The 2nd largest island of the Canaries has over 150 beaches that span over 90 sand-laden miles. Divided into 6 municipalities, Fuerteventura has tons to explore. With blue waters and sandy beaches throughout, there are tons of spots for quiet sunbathing, water sports and thrilling nightlife. Photo: Fuerteventura Flag Beach This island boasts a less touristy experience and you ll probably even be able to find a secluded beachfront even during the summer months. I If you re looking for golden sand, contrast with turquoise waters, look no further than Grandes Playas de Corralejo. For those with special needs, there are walkways and ramps to help get around on the sand. This beach even has a team dedicated to assisting disabled travelers so they can enjoy a relaxing day. Photo: Grandes Payas de Corralejo

Things to Do in Fuerteventura Corralejo One of the favorite hotspots on this island is Corralejo.

The local s favorite haunt is Tapas Oscar, fully accessible for wheelchair users.

potatoes, but you can cleanse your palate with crisp, local wines.

What can be better than eating scrumptious tapas and sipping on wine in Feurteventura?

16 Things to Do in Fuerteventura Corralejo One of the favorite hotspots on this island is Corralejo. A visit here would not be complete without sampling Spanish tapas. The local s favorite haunt is Tapas Oscar, fully accessible for wheelchair users. Not only can you tempt your taste buds with culinary delights such as roasted pork and pepperoni and pepper laden potatoes, but you can cleanse your palate with crisp, local wines. Another plus is you only pay for the wine you drink, so if you drink a ½ bottle, you only pay for ½ bottle. What can be better than eating scrumptious tapas and sipping on wine in Feurteventura? Las Canteras Beach Located in the newer part of the city, Canteras offers fun and sun along with the most disabled-access. Take a ramp on and off the boardwalk which runs along the whole of the beach for easy getting around. While here a meal at one of the many restaurants serving traditional and contemporary foods.

Vegueta Considered one of the best places in Las Palmas for dining, visit here for an afternoon or an evening for a lively atmosphere and good food.

17 Vegueta Considered one of the best places in Las Palmas for dining, visit here for an afternoon or an evening for a lively atmosphere and good food. Visit on Thursdays for Tapas Evenings then sample a variety of small plates and beers. The area is also known for being the old part of Las Palmas and features lots of historic architecture. Photo: Mercado Vegueta Oasis Park Fuerteventura Animal lovers rejoice! This immersive experience allows visitors to get up close and personal with birds of prey, sea lions, camels and more. Come here to swim, walk and even ride with the animals! Accessible Accommodations Las Palmas / Fuerteventura Whether you want a small apartment to simply sleep in when not on the beach or a luxury home, Handiscover has a Fuerteventura rental to suit your tastes. Simply choose from our list of accessible features then book a place that fits your needs. Our commitment to your comfort and ease ensures you get all the features required to get the stress-free accommodations you deserve. How to Get Around Hire a car and driver to get to both the well-known and more remote areas of the island. A bus system is also available and runs on a reliable schedule.

18 Getting Around the Canary Islands As you embark upon your dream trip, it s important to include transportation plans in your itinerary. The great news is the Canary Islands invested heavily in providing many options for getting around for wheelchair users. Many tourists will spend a significant amount of time on the beach while in the Canary Islands. The great news is almost every resort offers beach wheelchair rentals. Beach wheelchairs, generally feature larger tires that are designed specifically for sandy travel. Another option is a chair that also converts into a lounge-like chair. It is the perfect apparatus for basking in the sun with a tiny umbrella drink.

19 The bus systems on all of the islands as mentioned earlier provide accessibility options for reduced mobility travellers. Most of the buses offer ramps and accommodate additional space for wheelchairs or walkers. On some of the islands, there may be a few busses within the fleet that are not accessible; therefore it s best to contact the companies ahead of time. Here is a Link to several transportation companies across all of the islands. To take your vacation to the next level, you may want to consider hiring a private vehicle to explore various destinations, including volcanic mountains, without depending upon a bus or taxi. Private vehicle rentals can be found at Cicar Canary Islands Car and here is the link. Many tourists have thoroughly enjoyed taking a guided accessible tour while vacationing in the Canary Islands. In conclusion, an adventure in the Canary Islands will leave you rested, relaxed, and refreshed. Whether basking in the sun on a golden beach, touring archaeological wonders, or trekking through volcanic parks, you are sure to build memories that will last a lifetime. By using these tips and planning ahead, you can partake in an accessible trip of a lifetime unlike any other. Ready to discover the Canary Islands? We have accommodations that suits various needs. Search our Canary Islands accommodations here.

20 Discover the world with Handiscover! Are you signed up to get more Accessible Destination Guides? Sign up

Spain Lanzarote Land of the Volcanoes Cycle Tour 2018 Individual Self-Guided or Guided 8 days / 7 nights

Spain Lanzarote Land of the Volcanoes Cycle Tour 2018 Individual Self-Guided or Guided 8 days / 7 nights A unique ride through some of the most dramatic landscapes to be found in Europe. These islands