Lanzarote

Tourism first took off here back in the early 1970´s in and around what was then a small fishing village called La Tiñosa.  Which has now expanded dramatically, undergoing a transformation to become the most popular resort on the island, with a new name to boot – Puerto del Carmen.

However despite Lanzarote´s popularity as a holiday destination outside of the main resorts the island has retained much of its original identity intact.  There are no high rise hotels – these were outlawed over thirty years ago.  And tourism in general has left little visible imprint.  Allowing the rural character of the island to shine through.

Places To Stay

Island accommodation options run from basic studio apartments in the main resorts through to five star luxury in opulent rural hotels. The growth of the internet has also led to a sharp increase in the number of visitors staying in privately owned apartments and villas in Lanzarote.  As booking accommodation direct online becomes more commonplace.

Sightseeing

Despite being quite a small island Lanzarote has a lot to offer in the way of attractions.  There are over ninety beaches to explore.  As well as picturesque and historic towns and villages, such as the former island capital of Teguise.  Which is the oldest settlement in the Canaries dating back to the early 1400´s and home to some fine examples of Spanish colonial architecture.

The island also possesses some highly unusual natural beauty spots.  Such as the Timanfaya Volcano Park – scene of some massive eruptions during the 1730´s which covered around a quarter of the island in lava.  Creating a landscape that looks like the surface of the moon.  And the Green Lagoon at El Golfo – an emerald coloured lake located on a black sand beach.

This surreal terrain has been further complimented by the vision of a local artist called César Manrique.  Who united the topography with his own creativity – resulting in sights such as the Jameos del Agua.  A huge collapsed lava tube that has been transformed into a subterranean nightclub and concert hall.