Traditional Canarian charm

When you go Beyond Biking, we want you to enjoy local culture to the fulliest, so get ready to live the Canarian way. We’ve handpicked the best local accommodation: white-washed houses, set in sleepy villages largely untouched by tourism. All surrounded by nature and silence. Find out what Lonely Planet has to say about the villages where you will stay.

Caleta de Sebo (Isla La Graciosa): Graciosa is recommended for the ultimate stress-busting break. In one day you can see the whole island, while recharging your batteries worlds away from the tourist mainstream. On a windy day, Caleta de Sebo can seem like a cross between a bare Moroccan village and a sand-swept Wild West outpost. There are no tarmaced roads.

Caleta de Famara (Lanzarote) : Famara’s excellent waves offer some of Europe’s finest breaks. If you don’t fancy taking a board, then come here to watch the surfing. With its dramatic cliff views, Caleta de Famara has a youthful, bohemian vibe and a few restaurants overlooking the surf.

El Cotillo (Fuerteventura) : This former fishing village has real character, marrying the windswept nature of an offbeat coastal town with the laid-back vibe that comes from being a popular surfing destination. El Cotillo has so far managed to avoid major construction and is an excellent place for foodies, water babes or those simply seeking some relaxation.

Pajara (Fuerteventura) : Pájara is a leafy oasis set amidst a desert landscape. Pajara is one of the oldest towns of the Canaries, known for its church and for being the greenest village in Fuerteventura. The tree-lined town centre is a delightful reminder of the past.

Agaete & Puerto de las Nieves (Gran Canaria): A small place with black pebbly beaches, this mountainous setting offers stunning views south along the Andén Verde. It’s a town with a tangible fishing-village feel, and the buildings, with their brilliant blue trim against dazzling white stucco, look as though they have been transplanted from some Greek island. The port is well-known for its excellent seafood restaurants.

Tejeda (Gran Canaria): Smack bang in the centre of the island, Tejeda is a lovely hillside village with a handsome church and steep, winding streets lined with balconied houses. Whichever route you take to get there, you will drive through splendidly rugged scenery of looming cliffs and deep gorges.