Lanzarote is the most easterly of the Canary Islands and is located approximately 80 miles off the Western Saharan coast. The climate is intermediate between tropical and polar making it the perfect short-haul beach destination all year round.
Like the other Canary Islands, Lanzarote is volcanic in origin. Due to the recent eruptions during the 18th and 19th Centuries, many parts of Lanzarote appear to be from another world, often described as lunar or Martian. Hiring a car in Lanzarote will get you to your hotel in no time, allowing you to start the fun of a holiday abroad sooner rather than later.
Sightseeing around Arrecife
Lanzarote Airport is located between the two towns Arrecife, the capital of the island, and Puerto del Carmen. It is roughly a 10 minute drive from the airport to either of these towns.
Visit an important landmark of historical Arrecife, the Casa de la Cultura Agustin de la Hoz and the 17th Century Iglesia de San Gines. Other attractions include the Castles of San Jose, home to the international Museum of Modern Art, and San Gabriel, home to the Archaeological Museum. Arrecife also has its own beach, Playa del Reducto. A lovely promenade runs all the way from this area to the city's second beach, Playa del Cable.
Puerto del Carmen is famous for its lively nightlife and sandy beaches but there's much more on offer than just sunbathing and partying. With nearly 4 miles of golden sand stretching along the bay, beach holidays in Puerto del Carmen have a cove or beach to suit everyone. When the sun goes down, take your pick from plenty of restaurants, cafés and bars found on the promenade which also features ice cream parlours, amusement arcades and a selection of shops.
Exploring Lanzarote
Lanzarote has nearly 5,000 acres of active vineyards. The vineyards are concentrated in the central area of La Geria but also across the different municipalities. As such, wine tours are a popular tourist attraction and there are some wonderful views to be had whilst sampling some of the offerings.
Once a small fishing village, the island's third largest resort Playa Blanca is surrounded by chains of idyllic coves and gorgeous beaches featuring fine pale golden sand and warm, crystal clear water. The coves can be reached by car or boat however some of these areas are a little more off-the-beaten track and you may want to rent a car so you can explore them with ease.
Visit Las Cuevas de los Verdes which is at the northern end of the island. Hundreds of years ago this place was such a nifty hideout from pirates; one of its tunnels earned the nickname 'The Refuge'. These days though it's not terrified locals that head into the network of caves and tunnels, it's curious tourists instead! The real highlight is an underground lake. Stand on its edge, look down, and the reflection of the roof will leave you feeling like you're gazing into an abyss.
Jameos Del Agua is located in the north of Lanzarote and it's of the Atlantida volcanic cave system. The cave system was formed by the eruptions of the Corona volcano about three to four thousand years ago. When you enter the Jameos, the first cave is known as 'Jameo Chico', and it has been turned into an unusual bar / restaurant, with views over a small lake. This natural lake has extremely clear water and is home to a species of blind albino crabs which are fascinating to see.
