One particularly scenic spot is the Piscinas de la Fajana near the town of Barlovento, where you can take a dip in natural pools of saltwater separated from the sea only by low man-made barriers.

BBC: Mini guide to activities in the Canary Islands

Opened in 1890, just two years after the Banff Springs Hotel and just 50km to the northwest, Chateau Lake Louise occupies an equally scenic spot.

BBC: Canada��s spectacular ��Castles of the North��

Opened in 1890, just two years after the Banff Springs Hotel and just 50km to the southeast, Chateau Lake Louise occupies an equally scenic spot.

BBC: Canada��s spectacular ��Castles of the North��