Trekking in the Canary Islands : The GR131 island-hopping route

Experience the ultimate volcanic adventure on the GR131, a 560km (348-mile) route linking seven islands—Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro. This epic month-long trek reveals dramatic landscapes ranging from lava fields to cloud forests, ending at the legendary 'edge of the world' on the remote El Hierro. An optional ascent of El Teide, Spain's highest peak, offers an unforgettable highlight. Whether you're seeking a complete island-hopping adventure or shorter escapes, the GR131 can be tackled flexibly, with itineraries to suit every trekker's ambitions. This detailed guide describes all 32 graded stages (7–30km each), with clear route descriptions, reliable 1:50,000 mapping, and downloadable GPX files for confident navigation. Daily information boxes cover start and finish points, distances, walking times, elevation changes, terrain, and facilities. Practical advice includes comprehensive accommodation options from village pensiones to mountain refuges, plus guidance on services, shops, water sources, and public transport for every stage. Ferry transfers and local bus information ensure seamless logistics between islands. Plan your trek for the ideal season with guidance on local weather and trail conditions—March to May offers wildflowers and comfortable temperatures. Expand your knowledge with sections on the archipelago's geology, history, flora and fauna, culture, food, and local language. Immerse yourself in the striking natural beauty and diversity of the Canary Islands with this definitive guidebook to Europe's trail to the edge of the world.