Majorca 'dupe' has beautiful beaches, no crowds and £1.99 beers

When the Canary Islands spring to mind, you're likely to envision places like Tenerife and Gran Canaria - teeming with tourists, lively nightlife, and golden beaches. But what if you're seeking something a bit more serene?

There's one Canary Island that often gets overlooked, and that's exactly what makes it unique. La Gomera is a tranquil haven just a brief ferry journey from Tenerife and a sanctuary for those in search of peace. It is a perfect place for a holiday, with its verdant landscapes and dramatic cliffs. Unlike its busier counterparts, La Gomera isn't swamped with tourists.

That is why it has been named one of six dupes for Majorca. The Spanish Balearic island receives a colossal 17.8 million tourists each year, which can leave the place feeling a little overwhelming. The travel experts at Eurochange have shared lesser-known holiday spots across Europe that have several similarities to the popular Balearic destination. And, there are still plenty of incredibly cheap direct UK flights available this August.

Right now, it is possible to book direct return flights to Tenerife from Glasgow, Birmingham, and Edinburgh, starting from £87 in August. From there, it's just a 50-minute ferry to La Gomera. Hotels on Booking.com available from £50 per night, while beer will set you back just £1.99 and the average meal out costs £11.95.

The island offers a slower pace of life, making it the ideal spot to rejuvenate and reconnect with nature. Even better, it can reach temperatures of 21 °C in March with up to ten hours of sunshine each day, providing a heavenly escape from the northern European winter. Flights to Tenerife often cost less than £110, and from there, it's a picturesque 50-minute ferry ride to La Gomera.

The journey itself is an adventure, with views of the shimmering Atlantic and, if you're fortunate, a chance to spot dolphins. The island's crown jewel is Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Blanketed in ancient laurel forests, the park feels like something out of a fairytale.

La Gomera is also sprinkled with charming villages that seem frozen in time. Vallehermoso, with its vibrant houses and welcoming locals, is a must-see. Don't miss Agulo, often dubbed the "pearl of La Gomera" for its stunning views and cobbled streets.

Food lovers will be smitten with La Gomera's distinctive cuisine. Give "almogrote," a rich cheese spread, a go, or try "miel de palma," a sweet syrup derived from palm trees. While the beaches here may not be as expansive as those in Tenerife, La Gomera has some hidden treasures. Playa de Santiago is a tranquil spot to bask in the sun, while Valle Gran Rey boasts striking black-sand beaches and spectacular sunsets.