Volcanic Landscapes from Cape Verde to Canary Islands

On the tip of the African continent, the buzzing capital of Senegal stretches along the narrow peninsula of Cape Verde. You may be overwhelmed by its sheer size, but Dakar will win you over with its richly diverse districts, appealing cultural scene and rich natural surroundings. In the historic centre, you'll enjoy the pell-mell of colours and tasty delights in Kermel market. Far from the effervescence of the city, Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as a place of remembrance, having once been a slave trade outpost. On the other side of the plateau, the wild Madeleine islands are protected by a national park.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

The capital of Cape Verde, Praia, is located on the southern tip of Santiago island. You can dally in the districts planted with Tamarind and Albizia trees. Above the harbor, the statue of Diogo Gomes pays homage to the man who discovered Cape Verde in 1460. A few streets away, in the old center, the Ethnographic Museum presents the diversity of the archipelago’s cultural origins. Its historical building with transom windows is one of the city’s more unusual curiosities.

Included Excursion
Praia and Cidade Velha
Duration : 4h00
Welcome to the largest and most African of the Cape Verde islands. This tour will take you to the heart of the recent capital, Praia, where you will discover the contrast between its history and the modern atmosphere that reigns there. From the pier, you will meet your guide and drive to "the Plateau". There, you will start your guided walking tour of the historical centre of Praia. You will visit the Ethnological Museum which is located in a historic Portuguese colonial building. Your guide will tell you more about the way of life of the first inhabitants.

Afterwards, you will go to Cidade Velha which you will reach after 30 minutes of driving. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is the original capital of the Cape Verde Islands and the cradle of the slave trade.

Ribeira Grande, now known as Cidade Velha (“old city”), is the oldest city in Cape Verde Islands and was the first European settlement in the tropics. A colony was founded in 1462 by Antonio de Noli and prospered due to its prominent position in the slave trade. It became a city in 1572 and got a cathedral which was completed late in 1693. The great explorers Christopher Colombus and Vasco de Gama both stopped here on their respective expeditions, Christopher Colombus on his third voyage to the Americas in 1498, and Vasco de Gama on his way to India in 1497. Before arriving, you will visit the ruins of the old Fort of Real do Sao Filipe, which overlooks the Cidade Velha. It was built in 1590 to protect Ribeira Grande after a devastating attack by the pirate Francis Drake. This defence soon proved insufficient and in 1712 the city was sacked again by the French pirate Jacques Cassart.

Once in the heart of Cidade Velha, you will discover the remains left by the first Portuguese settlers. You will visit its Cathedral, then you will walk along the Rua Banana and the Pelourinho, a pillory dating from the 16th century. Near these picturesque cobblestone streets, you will enjoy a coffee to the sound of the drums of a batuco group that will offer you a traditional dance performance. After discovering the soul of this island, you will return to the port of Praia and your ship.

This excursion involves approximately 1.5 km of walking over cobblestone streets with some steps. The transportation used is local bus and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. Euros banknotes are accepted at the souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Cape Verdean Escapade
Duration : 5h00
Dive into the heart of Cape Verde’s history and fall under the spell of the charms of the island of Santiago, its inhabitants and their secular traditions.
In Praia’s picturesque historic centre, more well-known to locals by the name of Platô or Plateau, stroll the paved streets that bear witness to the birth of the Cape Verdean nation, and be enchanted by the city’s most emblematic historic jewels. These include: the Nossa Senhora da Graça Church, steeped with centuries of devotion and mystery; the vegetable market, brimming with colours and local flavour, offering a glimpse into everyday Cape Verdean life; and the Ethnographic Museum, where you will be able to find out more about the archipelago’s culture, customs and traditions.

This sublime adventure will continue via breathtaking mountain scenery, through Sao Domingos to Rui Vaz, where a surprising culinary discovery awaits you in the form of a delicious traditional lunch.

This excursion involves around 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking on paved and uneven streets, with some steps. The vehicles used are local transport and are not equipped with air conditioning or a sound system. Euro banknotes are accepted in all souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.

Set on the shores of the Porto Grande Bay on the north-west coast of São Vicente, Mindelo is considered to be Cape Verde's cultural capital. Here in singer Cesaria Evora's homeland, you can listen to real morna in the bars of the old town, where you can also sip the local grog, a Cape Verdian sugarcane spirit. A few streets from the elegant floating resort of Pont d'água you'll see the pastel-coloured houses and colonial buildings of the historical district. Other landmarks are the facades of the old Governor's Palace and the busy municipal market.

Included Excursion
Mindelo Off road Adventure
Duration : 4h30
From the pier, you will board your 4x4 for a panoramic tour of the island of São Vicente, through breathtaking landscapes. In the heart of unspoilt nature, your adventure will take you from the north coast to the south coast to Palha Carga Beach - a one-kilometre-long beach just for you. On the way, you will stop at Assomada to take pictures from the highest viewpoint on the island.

After enjoying a stop at a black sand beach and crossing the agricultural valley of the island, Ribeira de Calhau, you will stop inside the small crater of Topim and observe the uninhabited islands of Santa Luzia, Raso and Branco. Enjoy the beauty of the turquoise waters and white sand of Saragarça Beach and be seduced by the natural caves along the coast, formed at the end of a lava flow, with the backdrop of the Viana crater on your left and the view of Santa Luzia on your right. With a little luck, you may have the privilege to see ospreys (fish eagles). Then, you will visit the fishing village of Calhau, with its colourful wooden sailboats and its typical Cape Verdean atmosphere before returning to you ship.

This excursion is a panoramic tour (3 hours’ drive with photo stops) in an all-terrain vehicle and involves walking on rough roads with some steps. The vehicles used are local and do not have air conditioning or a sound system. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Each vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 2 passengers. Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for people with back or neck problems. There are no toilets during the tour.

Jaunt to Sao Vicente: Culture, scenery and adventure
Duration : 4h15
Sao Vicente is characterised by its lack of water, which gives it a somewhat bare landscape. The island's appeal lies in its wild Atlantic beaches and its charming, colorful city known as the country's cultural capital. Succumb to the charms of this natural sanctuary with an ancestral culture.
Your scenic tour through Mindelo will have you discovering the heart of the city. It will take you past the Praia Nova, the Palacio de Povo, down the main street called Rua de Lisboa, and along the bustling Rua de Praia, lined with colourful colonial houses and monuments influenced by the Portuguese and British cultures.
 
Along the winding roads leading to Monte Verde, the islands tallest peak, you will take pleasure in admiring the variety of colours offered by the island's stones and rock formations. Make your way along the winding roads of Monte Verde, the highest peak on the island, to enjoy a panoramic view of most parts of the island: the city of Mindelo, the long beaches of yellow sand juxtaposing black volcanic rock, and Baia das Gatas, a bay with turquoise waters, famous for its annual music festival that gathers large parts of the country.
During a stop at Praia Grande beach, delight in the sound of the waves of the Atlantic as you walk along the sand, and taste the local sugarcane liqueur called grog. Finally, before returning to Mindelo to hear some of the Cape Verdean music for which the island of Sao Vicente is renowned, you will cross the former agricultural zone that was once vital to the island but which is now reduced due to the lack of rainfall.
 
This excursion involves some time spent walking on cobblestone streets with some steps to negotiate. The coaches used are local buses with no air conditioning or sound system. Euros (banknotes only) are accepted in the souvenir shops in the cultural centre, but credit cards are not. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and bringing a jacket with you as it can get windy at the top of the mountain. Swimming is not allowed. The tasting is included in your tour.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment.

The capital of the island of Palma, Santa Cruz de la Palma is the pearl of the Canaries. Founded in 1493 by the conquistador Alonso Fernandez de Lugo, the city has preserved a large and atypical architectural heritage from its colonial past, with its traditional Canarian houses adorned with brightly colored wooden balconies, its cobbled streets, its sumptuous palaces, and its numerous religious buildings. The Santa Catalina Castle is the symbol of the city. This 16th-century military fortification helped defend the city from repeated attacks by French privateers.

Included Excursion
Natural Treasures of Northern La Palma
Duration : 4h00
Dive into the luxuriant nature of northern La Palma for a unique experience in the heart of lush forests and admire the natural pools.
The Canary Island of La Palma invites admiration, contemplation and wonder. During this excursion, set off to discover the lush nature of the north of the island from several points on the island. From San Bartolo, the belvedere in the picturesque town of La Galga, you will contemplate the green landscapes that appear before you. In this heaven for nature lovers, you will cross mountain roads to reach the Los Tilos Forest or La Galga forest site (depending on safety restrictions on the day). This natural sanctuary, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to extraordinary biodiversity featuring rich flora: huge forests of bay trees, holly, arbutus, orange blossom, campanula.

As a volcanic island, La Palma is abundant in geological treasures that were formed by lava flows centuries ago. Among them is the Charco Azul natural pool and its crystal clear waters, where you will have time to enjoy a relaxing moment opposite the Atlantic Ocean. The clear waters and lush vegetation create a peaceful atmosphere, just perfect for unwinding. On the way to a charming rum distillery, you will come across vast expanses of banana plantations, which contribute significantly to the local economy. During your visit of the rum distillery, you will learn more about this alcohol obtained from a sugar cane variety introduced to the island in the 15th century.

This excursion includes around 1.5 km (almost 1 mile) of walking on uneven surfaces, steep and some stairs. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.

Volcan and Wine
Duration : 4h00
Set off to discover the spectacular landscapes of La Palma and its vineyards rooted in black soil, renowned for their unique flavors. Leaving from Santa Cruz de La Palma, you will head towards Las Manchas, famous for its superb colorful square designed by Luis Morera, a local artist whose style is reminiscent of the extravagance of the famous Catalan Antonio Gaudí.

You will pursue your exploration towards the south of the island, between vineyards, the remnants of lava flows, and pine forests, to Fuencaliente. This town conserves the most spectacular traces of La Palma’s historic volcanic eruptions and is also renowned as one of its best wine-growing regions.
You will set off to explore two of the island’s emblematic volcanos: San Antonio, the highest peak in the region, which you will be able to admire from the visitor centre; then Teneguia, whose summit affords striking views over the surrounding landscapes.

Your adventure will conclude with a visit to one of La Palma’s renowned cellars, where you will be able to taste delicious local wines. This excursion involves walking approximately 1,5km (0,9 miles) on uneven ground, at times cobbled or graveled. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing.

The capital city of Tenerife is located on the northeast coast of the island. Close to the port is the monumental Plaza de España, bedecked with a fountain and plant sculptures. Around the plaza, you can admire the white marble Triunfo de la Candelaria obelisk, the historic casino of Santa Cruz, and the majestic Guimerà Theatre. Not far from here, the picturesque Iglesia de la Concepción church features the characteristic traits of Canaries architecture.

Included Excursion
Teide National Park
Duration : 5h00
Tenerife, the largest island in the Canarys archipelago, is a destination full of contrasts. A place with exceptional landscapes, since 82% of the municipal territory of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is considered a natural area, dominated by a volcanic cone of 3,718 meters named Le Teide.
From the pier, board your coach for a one-hour scenic drive inland through the lush forest area known as La Esperanza where you will have the opportunity to stop twice to take photos of the surrounding natural environment.

You will then reach Parador del Teide, where you will enjoy a coffee break. This is where the volcanic Mount Teide is located, whose summit reaches a height of 7,500 metres above ocean floor, considered the third highest volcanic structure in the world. The visual impact of the site is furhter enhanced by the atmospheric conditions that create constantly changing textures and tones in the landscape and a "sea of clouds" that forms a visually impressive backdrop.
Your tour then continues to the rock of Mirador, known also as el Dedo de Dios, which translates as "The Finger of God". You will make a photo stop in front of this incredible geological formation.

Finally, you will drive back to your ship, enjoying further breathtaking views of the lovely island of Tenerife.

This tour involves approximately one mile of moderate walking on uneven surfaces. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and warm clothes. The order of visits may vary due to adverse weather conditions. This tour is not recommended for guests with heart problems due to the height reached. This tour is limited to 40 participants.

The Gardens of Tenerife
Duration : 7h00
During this excursion with a botanical twist, discover the landscapes and varied vegetation of Tenerife.The bus will take the coastal road via La Laguna, Tacoronte and El Sauzal on the west coast. You will make a first stop at the Mirador Humboldt to admire the panoramic views over the surprising Orotava Valley.

You will then arrive at the famous Puerto de la Cruz Botanical Gardens, founded in 1788 by King Charles III of Spain to house hundreds of plant species brought back from America, Asia and Africa.

Over 4,000 species, some of them delicate, have managed to adapt to this climatization garden and some of them have now reached gigantic proportions, such as the massive Coussapoa Dealbata palm or the Palo Borracho, from South America. The garden also has a collection of local flora and develops various research program.

You will then continue to the Sitio Litre Orchard Garden, the oldest private botanical garden in Tenerife. This historic 18th-century mansion features over 3,000 plant species, including a renowned orchid collection, and has been visiteed by famous figures such as Agatha Christie. A charming stop to enjoy nature, and a touch of local culture.

The visit will be crowned with a tasting of a glass of local wine. Leaving the hill of the Taoro Park, you will have lunch at the Meson El Monasterio, a former monastery converted into a spacious restaurant located on La Montañeta hill, from where you will be able to enjoy views over the valley.
You will get back on the road western-bound to Icod de los Vinos. The Parque del Drago is next to the San Marcos Church. The famous “El Drago Milenario” millennial dragon tree (although its official age is only 800 years) is the oldest tree in the Canary Islands. A garden of endemic species has been created around the tree with, among others, small dragon trees, euphorbia cactus and sweet euphorbia.

This excursion involves walking approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) on uneven ground. We recommend you wear good walking shoes and comfortable clothing and bring your water bottle.

With its particularly pleasant climate, El Hierro, the youngest of the Canary Islands, invites you to discover enchanting panoramas in an atmosphere of unrivalled calm and serenity. You will be captivated by the untouched natural environment, featuring a majestic volcano, lush forests, sheer cliffs and natural pools. Besides the treasures on land, you will also have the chance to discover its underwater environment. Teeming with life, it is a paradise for diving enthusiasts, since the island is home to the Punta de La Restinga Marine Reserve, its thousands of colourful fish and stunning underwater volcanic landscapes.

Included Excursion
Nature and flavors of El Hiero
Duration : 4h00
You will meet your guide, board your coach and drive through the incredible landscapes of El Hierro.
First, you will head south to the viewpoint of Mirador de Isora, situated at 1050 metres above sea level. From there, you can admire the incredible cliffs that fall into the Atlantic Ocean along a 9-kilometre-long amphitheatre.
Then, you will continue your route through one of the largest tunnels of the Canaries to reach the outstanding eco-museum of “Guinea”. In addition to old farmhouses, typically furnished as they were in the last century, you will see a centre for the recuperation of El Hierro’s giant lizard. It is the best place to learn more about this endemic species of a giant lizard, rediscovered in 1975. The giant lizard is in danger of extinction and is one of the symbol of the island.
Last, you will reboard your coach and drive to the spectacular viewpoint “Mirador de la Peña”, a visionary building designed by the well-known Canarian architect César Manrique. Here, you will enjoy the exceptional view over the Gulf valley, with its countless greenhouses that protect the bananas from strong winds.

At the local restaurant, you will enjoy a tasting of different local delicacies while admiring this beautiful landscape. Finally, you will drive back to the pier and your ship. 

The tour involves approximately 2 km of walking over cobblestone, rocky and uneven surfaces.  We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and to wear warm clothes as well. Please note that tour could be rerouted by adverse weather conditions!

Authentic flavors and landscapes of El Hierro
Duration : 4h00
Marvel at the wild and spectacular beauty of El Hierro on a guided scenic tour, complete with a tasting of local island products. Aboard a comfortable coach, your guide will reveal the treasures and secrets of this unique volcanic island.

Your first stop will be Las Pernadas, a site offering an uninterrupted view of the island. It is the ideal location for taking memorable photos. You will then continue on to the Punta Grande Hotel, once known as the world’s smallest hotel, and then to the Pozo de la Salud, renowned since the 19th century for its healing mineral water.

Your tour will continue with a visit to a pineapple plantation, where you will learn more about El Hierro's unique tropical agriculture.

Next, head to La Maceta, famous for its natural pools formed by lava. These are bathed by the waves of the Atlantic, yet protected by rocks.
Your final stop on the tour will be the Mirador de La Peña viewpoint, designed by the famous architect César Manrique, and offering a spectacular view of the gulf. There, you will enjoy a tasting of local wines and cheeses, fully immersing yourself in the flavours of the island.
You will then return to the pier and your ship.

This tour involves approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking over paved, rocky and uneven surfaces at the viewpoints. It is not wheelchair accessible. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and walking shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and bringing a bottle of water. 

Established on a coast sprinkled with cliffs, Arrecife has a pleasant beach and a lagoon full of charm, Charca of San Ginés, where the fishermen anchor their boats. The city also proposes places fed by history and culture, such as the castle San Gabriel, former fort of defense of the city.

Included Excursion
Jameos del Agua and Mirador del Rio
Duration : 4h00
From the pier, embark your coach for a one-hour scenic drive to the picturesque village of Haria, known as the “valley of a thousand palms”. Surrounded by lush green fields and colorful meadows, you can admire whitewashed houses, shady palms, and tropical flowers line its narrow streets. You will then continue to Mirador del Rio, Lanzarote's most famous viewpoint. This former gun emplacement has been converted in 1973 by local artiste Cesar Manrique into a recreational and ecological location. From the balustraded cafe or the vantage point of the balcony, you will have some of the most breath-taking views in the entire archipelago. Standing 500 meters above sea level, you can see the entire northern coastline, the straits of El Rio and Las Salinas del Rio, the island's oldest salt plains which have been used since Roman times.

After a coffee stop at Mirador del Rio, you will reboard your coach and travel to Los Jameos del Agua. This massive open-air cavern is part of a long volcanic tunnel that was formed 3,000 years ago by molten lava. Due to gasses pression, the tunnel collapsed in some parts creating large openings. In 1968, Manrique had the idea to turn these openings into a tropical garden with a pool, a bar and a 600-seat auditorium.

Upon arrival, you will climb down a stone staircase into the first cave known as Jameo Chico. You will continue along a pathway crossing a lake filled with tiny albino crabs, a rare and delicate marine crustacean. Following the footpath, you will reach Jameo Grande, a huge open-air cave lined with tropical plants and a turquoise pool. After visiting the auditorium, you will reboard your coach and get back to your ship.

This tour involves 1 km of walking on uneven and rocky surface with approximately 140 steps to negotiate at Los Jameos del Agua. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Timanfaya National Park and La Geria Bodega
Duration : 4h00
From the pier, you will board your coach and start your journey at National Park Timanfaya and the famous Fire Mountains of Lanzarote.
Upon arrival, you will enjoy a guided tour of the park. The park’s lack of wildlife creates a surprising air of calm and silence. It´s hard to imagine what a volcanic eruption would be like, but the land is still bubbling beneath the surface and the craters and the active volcanoes will amaze you. Islote de Hilario is one of the most original islets, or kipukas, in the Canary Islands, and it stands out from other islets because it is covered by the pyroclasts of the Timanfaya eruption of 1730-1736. However, the main characteristic of this geological attraction is the presence of thermal anomalies. This area registers the highest thermal anomalies in the Canary Islands. Then, you will attend geothermal demonstrations and will gain an appreciation for the power of the active volcanoes under your feet.

After admiring this astonishing natural beauty of the national park, you will appreciate the El Golfo viewpoint overlooking El Charco de los Clicos, a green lake formed by a volcanic crater and located in the middle of a black sand beach.

The journey back to the pier passes by the beautiful Vineyards of La Geria, where of course you will have the chance to taste typical Lanzarote wine. This wine producing area is a few miles inland; the wall of volcanic rock divides the apparently barren field but, within these walls, the wine flourish under a layer of Picón (porous lava granules which absorb the dew at night and provide constant moisture to the plants).

This excursion involves walking on uneven ground and gravel, sometimes steep with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Cesar Manrique Foundations and Cactus Garden
Duration : 3h30
César Manrique, the renowned Spanish artist, architect, and environmentalist, was definitely the most important artist to hail from the Canary Islands. He got popular as a painter, sculptor, architect, gardener, and outdoor designer. He was also a passionate defender of the environment. Thanks to his everlasting work, the coasts of Lanzarote stayed clear, hotel buildings were kept reduced, and the characteristics of villages and landscapes remain authentic.

Meet your guide, board your coach and drive to the César Manrique Foundation, or Fundación Cesar Manrique (FCM). It is a cultural institution and was established in 1982 by César Manrique. The foundation aims to preserve and promote the artistic and cultural legacy of the artist, as well as to foster the conservation and sustainable development of the island of Lanzarote. Manrique was deeply connected to Lanzarote and played a significant role in shaping the island's identity and protecting its natural beauty.

The Foundation is housed in Manrique's former residence. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, blending harmoniously with the surrounding volcanic landscape. It integrates natural volcanic bubbles and caves into its design, showcasing Manrique's philosophy of merging art with nature. The rooms are filled with his paintings, sculptures, and personal objects, offering a glimpse into his creative process and inspirations. One of Manrique's most significant contributions to Lanzarote was his emphasis on preserving the island's natural beauty and promoting sustainable development. He advocated for responsible tourism, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.

Then, you will re-board your coach and head to the Cactus Garden, which is a perfect example of how to combine architecture with the environment without destruction. Manrique created this brave monument maintaining the connection between art and nature, which is reflected in all his creations. The Cactus Garden, also known as Jardín de Cactus, is a tribute to the island's unique landscape.

The Cactus Garden was inaugurated in 1990 and is built within an old quarry, showcasing Manrique's ability to integrate art and nature. The garden features over 1,400 species of cacti from different parts of the world, creating a stunning display of shapes, sizes, and colors. The garden is designed in a circular shape, with terraced levels that blend harmoniously with the surrounding volcanic environment. Manrique incorporated various elements into the garden's design, including stone walls, paths, and seating areas, all carefully crafted to complement the cacti.

At the center of the garden stands a restored windmill, which adds to the unique ambiance and serves as a symbol of Lanzarote's agricultural past. The windmill has been converted into a small museum that provides information about the history and cultivation of cacti on the island.

The garden's terraced layout offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, allowing visitors to appreciate both the natural beauty of the plants and the volcanic landscapes that define Lanzarote. Enjoy a refreshment at the café amidst the peaceful setting before heading back to the port and your ship.

This tour includes 1 km of walking over uneven surfaces and there are steps to negotiate. Passengers should wear comfortable walking shoes.

A stopover of sunny climes, Las Palmas is located on the north-east coast of Gran Canaria. A few streets away from Puerto de la Luz port, you’ll discover the vast Las Canteras beach, bordered with the town’s characteristic palms. You’ll find these palms are all over Las Palmas, in the streets and squares, especially on the plaza de Santa Ana in the heart of the historical district. It feels like you’ve travelled back in time here, as you stand looking at the tall houses beside the Santa Ana cathedral. Very close by, you can visit the  Casa de Colón, a museum dedicated to the famous explorer. The museum is housed in the palace belonging to the island’s former governor. Chances are, you’ll be drawn to the covered Vegueta market to partake in some daily life along with the locals and taste some unfamiliar dishes.