Having visited the Island of Lanzarote a few times, and lived and worked there for a number of years, people often ask why I would recommend Lanzarote as a holiday destination.
Providing the long detailed answer could take hours, talking in length about some of the best places on the island, the exploring, walking routes, excursions, the social scene and the number of activities you can do under the blue skies and warm climate - but that's for another time over a Cerveza or two and some fine Canarian Tapas.
Quite simply put, in my experience as both a tourist and resident, Lanzarote is a unique and captivating destination that offers visitors a wide variety of experiences.
Those experiences could be based on nature. They could be man-made, or they could simply be self-made. Furthermore, you will never get bored, as you will always discover new things to do in Lanzarote.
Here are some of my reasons why you should consider visiting this incredible island:
The Lanzarote Beaches
Whilst most Spanish holiday destinations come with Beaches, the diversity of the types of beaches you can find in Lanzarote sets it apart from the rest.
From the Golden Sands of Playa Grande, Playa Dorada and Papagayo to the black volcanic sand of Playa de Janubio there is no place quite like it.
Throw into the mix the almost white sands of Caleton Blanco or the pebbled beaches of the West Coast of the Timanfaya National Park and you have every type of beach imaginable.
You’ll also find a beach to suit you, from beaches bustling with people providing watersports and activities, to secluded spots where you’ll have the beach to yourself, there really is something for everyone.
The Incredible Lanzarote Landscape
The lunar-like landscape of The Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote was created by turbulent volcanic eruptions that lasted for 6 years in the 1700’s.
Today the park is the jewel in the crown of the island allowing tourists the opportunity to see the lava fields and volcanoes up close.
Although most of the volcanoes on the island are now extinct, Fire Mountain continues to experience geothermal activity under the surface although there is no evidence to suggest an eruption is imminent.
The Traditional Canarian Culture and Heritage
When visiting a destination for a holiday, it’s often easy to get caught up in the resorts and not see the traditions, culture and history of the area.
The heritage of Lanzarote lives on, particularly in the North of the island through the tiny villages and farmland.
I feel in a way that this was made possible through the legacy left by the late Cesar Manrique who fought to ensure that the island didn't completely succumb to the demands of tourism.
Outdoor Activities
Lanzarote is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The island offers a wide variety of activities such as hiking, cycling, and even paragliding.
Visitors can also take part in water sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and scuba diving.
It’s also home to the La Santa Sports Complex where professional athletes from around the world come to train in the year-round sunshine of the Canary Islands.
Gastronomy
If, like me, you love food then Canarian cuisine is going to excite your taste-buds.
Through a mix of Spanish, African and other influences, it's known for its fresh fish, meat, and vegetables.
Lanzarote is also home to a number of wineries that produce wines that are unique to the island. Visitors can enjoy these wines at the Bodegas in La Geria, and be accompanied by traditional dishes in local restaurants.
Climate
Due to its proximity to the equator, Lanzarote enjoys a subtropical desert climate, with mild average temperatures throughout the year. This makes it an ideal place to visit all year round, especially to escape the cold, dark winter months of Northern Europe.
The island also has less rainfall than most other Canary Islands, making it an excellent choice for visitors who want to avoid the rain.
Art and Design
The island is also home to several unique architectural and design projects such as Jardin de Cactus and Mirador del Río, both created by the late local artist, architect and visionary César Manrique.
Manrique's influence on Lanzarote is very visible through sculptures, buildings and his ability to fuse man with nature in designing the many attractions throughout the island.
The passion for Art and Design runs through the veins of the locals, and this is clear to see at the regular artisan markets that take place around the island.
A great place to pick up a gift or two to remember your time in Lanzarote.
Festivals and Celebrations
Being a Spanish Island, throughout the year Lanzarote has a calendar of festivals that reflect the local culture and traditions.
Celebrations like Fiestas de Santiago in Teguise, which takes place every year in July, or Carnival which takes place around the island during March and February.
If you can travel to the island during this time, I highly recommend absorbing yourself in the atmosphere of Carnival.
Well Connected
The island has one main airport, which is well-serviced by international flights from around Europe and local inter-island flights with Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
There is a ferry service that connects Lanzarote to Fuerteventura, making it really easy to get around and experience the other islands in the Canary Island archipelago.
In summary, with its diverse beaches, incredible volcanic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and outdoor activities, visitors will find Lanzarote an ideal destination to enjoy, relax and explore.
The island is well known for its laid-back atmosphere and relaxed way of life, offering holidaymakers the opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation.
Relaxation
Away from the madness of the tourist resorts, Lanzarote is known for its laid-back atmosphere and relaxed way of life.
Visitors looking for rest and relaxation will be able to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation.
