Spring will soon be upon us and for many that means its time to enjoy some sunshine alter a long cold winter. With Easter proving one of the busiest times of the year for holiday travel from countries such as the UK. 

At that time of the year though there are not that many places close to home which offer guaranteed sunshine. As mainland Europe can still be cold and grey during March and April. Whilst well known destinations such as the Caribbean require a huge investment in terms of both time and money. 

The Canaries offer a viable alternative though – as these seven Spanish islands are blessed with good weather whatever the time of year and are just a four hour flight from the UK. Making the journey just the right side of bearable. 

Over the years the Canaries have been saddled with a slightly downmarket image. Largely as a result of the antics of package holidaymakers on islands such as Tenerife and Gran Canaria. But Lanzarote is a much smaller and quieter island. Attracting mature couples and families rather than gangs of younger holidaymakers. It´s also a very affordable option – with apartments and holiday villas in Lanzarote available from as little as £180 per week. 

Many holidaymakers opt for villas in Puerto del Carmen  – as this is the island largest and oldest resort and makes an ideal base for a sunshine break. There are some great beaches and loads of decent restaurants here. As well as a wide array of things to do and see. Including boat trips, the children’s zoo at Rancho Texas and bare back camel riding at Rancho A Caballo. 

Puerto del Carmen has long been the most popular spot on the island but its dominance has been challenged in recent years by the rise of Playa Blanca to the south. A purpose built resort developed during the 1990´s Playa Blanca is now a viable alternative as there are some great beaches here whilst the weather is also very reliable. 

As result demand for villas in Playa Blanca  has also grown enormously over the last five years – and little wonder. As it’s possible to pick up a break here from as little as €400 per week. 

There are plenty of other accommodation alternatives dotted around the island. Encompassing everything from rural hotels and eco friendly fincas through to smaller studio apartments and village rooms for rent.