There is a destination where the climate remains mild even when winter sets in in Europe: the Canaries. This Spanish archipelago off the coast of Africa benefits from a quasi-permanent spring, making it an ideal refuge for an out-of-season yoga retreat. Volcanoes, the Atlantic Ocean and spectacular nature complete the picture. Here’s how to choose your island and your time.
A unique climate in Europe
The great advantage of the Canaries lies in their weather. Thanks to their position and the trade winds, the islands maintain mild temperatures all year round, rarely sweltering in summer, never cold in winter. Where most European destinations close or cool down from November to March, the Canaries remain bathed in light and conducive to outdoor practice.
This regularity changes everything. You can schedule a retreat in the middle of winter and practise facing the ocean in a t-shirt, which remains rare just a few hours' flight from France. It is a welcome answer to that longing for sunshine that arises when the days get shorter, a bit like our article on mental fatigue at the end of the year describes.
The islands to know
Each island has its personality. Lanzarote strikes with its almost lunar volcanic landscapes, its lava fields, and its pure white architecture, in a mineral and soothing atmosphere. Fuerteventura appeals to ocean lovers with its long beaches and surf spots, ideal for combining mat and waves.
Tenerife and Gran Canaria, larger and more varied, offer both high-altitude natural areas, forests, and wilder coastlines away from resorts. La Gomera and El Hierro, finally, remain secret and preserved, perfect for those seeking deep calm and disconnection. Again, it’s best to avoid the very touristy areas in the south to find authenticity.
The atmosphere you will find there
The Canaries combine Spanish influence and a relaxed island atmosphere. The welcome is simple and warm, the pace is quiet, and nature is always within reach. Many venues focus on environmental care and reconnecting with nature, between volcanoes, forests and ocean.
It’s a destination that suits both a winter break in the sun and an active stay combining yoga, hiking, and surfing. If the idea of alternating practice and waves appeals to you, our article on yoga and surfing explores the topic in depth. And to prepare your luggage according to the season, our guide what to pack will be useful.
To discover our verified venues, go to the Canaries page. We only present venues where the seriousness of the practice and the welcome is confirmed by their official source.