The group of islands, which are part of Spain but located off Africa's north-west coast, have a great climate, with long, sunny days and soaring temperatures during the summer. Even during the winter, rain is rare and it is more than warm enough to enjoy an afternoon on the beach or sightseeing outdoors.

Such fine weather has helped to make many of the islands in the archipelago popular holiday destinations, particularly with people who like to spend their break doing little more than working on their tan. But beautiful beaches are not the only attraction, as there is a rich culture to enjoy and a spectacular volcanic landscape to explore.

Book Canary Islands and West Africa cruises and the itinerary is likely to include a stop at the port city of Las Palmas on Gran Canaria.

Las Palmas is packed with historic buildings, such as the Palacio Regental and the beautiful Santa Ana Cathedral, as well as being within easy travelling distance of some idyllic formal gardens.

Take a trip out to Palmitos Park and you will be able to spend a relaxing afternoon in the sun strolling through the botanical gardens and visiting the bird sanctuary, where you will see such exotic species as pelicans and toucans.

Tenerife is another great place to visit during a Canary Islands cruise. It may be best known for its bars and packed beaches, but it also has some spectacular terrain to explore in the national park around the snow-capped Mount Teide volcano - which is Spain's highest mountain.

If you are looking for something a little lazier to do while in Tenerife, why not spend a few hours at the lively markets in Santa Cruz before boarding a catamaran for a whale-watching trip?

Lanzarote is another island best known for its beaches, but with stunning scenery to see inland. The rugged volcanic landscape has a strange beauty and you are sure to enjoy visiting the La Geria region, which is home to a number of wineries.

Choose the right Canaries cruise and you will also have the opportunity to head off the usual tourist trail and explore some of the smaller islands. You may just be surprised by the unspoiled beauty of the countryside on La Gomera and the spectacular churches of La Palma.