Lanzarote, Spain
ABOUT
Lanzarote is one of the Canary islands off the coast of West Africa and administered by Spain. It is synonymous with volcanoes, lava fields, rocks in impossible shapes, black and red earth that contrasts with the typical whitewashed houses, the deep blue sea and the light blue sky. The scenery in the easternmost of the Canary Islands also contains stark, rolling mountains, beautiful beaches of white and golden sand, lush palm groves… and silence, which is also an enigmatic part of the Lanzarote landscape.
On this biosphere reserve island, there are lively tourist resorts and little villages where all is peace and quiet. The large hotels and bungalows of the coastal towns coexist with rural houses, villas and boutique hotels in the charming inland villages.
Population in 2019 was just under 151,000.
Currency is the Euro.
THINGS TO DO
Being a tourist destination, there is lots to do on the island. Many people who stay often confine themselves to their holiday resorts – but they are missing out on much.
There are of course beaches to visit but it is a land where tourism, art and nature combine. Take a bit of time to venture afield and you will find cactus gardens, volcanic landscapes and villages to explore.
Lanzarote was lucky enough to have César Manrique, a universal, multifaceted artist who knew how to combine art and nature like nobody else. He left a large part of his artistic legacy in Lanzarote, in his structures, sculptures and preservation of the landscape.
César Manrique, an artist born on the island has left an amazing legacy. He worked with the landscape to produce some of his amazing structures. Perhaps his greatest work is Los Jameos del Agua, one of the most visited tourist attractions on the island, where Manrique really surpassed himself. This volcanic tunnel, with its famous, spectacular natural auditorium, is home to a highly singular geological formation, an inner lake caused by filtrations of seawater.
The Mirador del Río is another of his creations. Perfectly integrated into the surroundings, from the natural vantage point over the striking cliffs of Famara, you see spectacular views of the Chinijo Archipelago, formed by the island of La Graciosa and four islets. In the exceptional Timanfaya landscape, he managed to masterfully incorporate the El Diablo Restaurant, a cylindric glass construction that make us feel a part of the volcanic surroundings.
OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO
We have been to Lanzarote a number of times over our years of cruising. It is a great place to go for a bit of winter warmth and so a popular choice for many. During that time we have visited a number of the `touristy’ spots and a selection of the photos from years past is below.
Latterly, one of Lindsey’s friends from school and Young Farmer days lives and works there. We have been incredibly lucky to have Steve as our host and guide on two occasions now and have seen parts of the island not often included on more organised tours.
Our most recent visit was no exception although the mode of transport was a little dated – sorry Steve!!
We were taken to a number of interesting places – there are entertainment venues for all the family in a number of places on the island. On this occasion we were taken to ‘Jurasic Kingdom’. This is a fun park for all the family which includes some great dinosaur models and mini golf.
Our day visit took out towards Tegise to view its traditional houses, stopping to take in the dramatic landscape. We called in at the Santa Bárbara Castle which is set high on a hill overlooking Teguise and the surrounding area. Then a brief visit to the Agricultural Museum.
Our final stop was at Mirador del Rio. This viewpoint is built on an escarpment approximately 475m high and is one of the most unique architectural creations by César Manrique.
What a marvellous way to end our day – coffee and snacks, a magnificent view and a good friend to share it with.
