LANZAROTE
Just 70 miles off the coast of Morocco, the small island of Lanzarote is the most eastern of the Canary Islands and by far the most fascinating.
 Boasting a unique volcanic landscape, dramatic mountain backdrops, unspoilt sandy beaches, a glorious climate and superb facilities for fun and relaxation, it is a truly remarkable year-round holiday destination.
The enviable weather of the Canary Islands has earned them the name of Islas Fortunadas meaning the Fortunate Islands. Lanzarote basks in unbroken sunshine with temperatures rarely dropping below 23 degrees in the winter and rising steadily to 30 degrees in August.
With regular flights to Arrecife Airport from most regional UK airports and taking only four hours, Lanzarote is extremely accessible with flights reasonably priced at any time of the year.
Once you’ve arrived, at just 37 miles long and 12 miles wide it’s possible to tour the whole island in a day and there’s certainly plenty to see.
 Lunar Landscape
The Lanzarote skyline is dominated by the Fire Mountains which are a series of volcanoes that first appeared over 250 years ago, devastating several local villages in the process.
One of the best examples of vocanology in the world, the landscape remains mostly unchanged since the eruptions and has a peculiarly lunar appearance.
A holiday in Lanzarote simply wouldn’t be complete without a visit to what is now a national park - Parque Nacional de Timanfaya.
Located in the south of the island and still showing evidence of volcanic activity, 300 craters and volcanoes can be marvelled at from the vantage point of a tour bus. Alternatively, opt for a camel ride that will take you on a 512 feet trek to the peak for a staggeringly spectacular view.
Whatever the mode of transport, there’s a chance to dine at the El Diablo restaurant where most of the grilled specialities are cooked in the 140°C heat coming directly from the volcano.
Another volcanic ‘wonder of Lanzarote’, and well worth a visit, is the luminous lagoon El Golfo.
Lying under a volcanic cliff and emerald green in colour, the crater is the result of the dramatic events of Timanfaya coupled with the effects of the Atlantic.
Separated from the sea by a wide beach, El Golfo produces a myriad of magnificent colours and shapes depending on the position of the sun. Close to the crater is the El Golfo fishing village with its fabulous fish restaurants. Plus there’s a black beach peppered with peridot, a semi-precious stone found in the volcanic rock.
Other volcanic tourist attractions include the Jameos Del Agua, a beautiful Volcanic Grotto with its own subterranean lake, and the Cuevas de los Verdes (the Green Caves).
Traditions of Architecture
 Lanzarote is an unspoilt, traditional island with a unique blend of architecture. Hugely influenced by local artist and architect Cesar Manrigue, island policy governs that buildings should rise no more than two storeys. Each is built to strict guidelines on design and finish with mostly whitewashed exteriors, green or blue windows and doors.
Fine examples of local architecture are found in the centrally located Teguise, a small, authentic Canarian town with a Sunday market and a traditional town square. It has narrow streets and well preserved buildings and is full of historic interest.
Even in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote’s up and coming holiday resort, a traditional village atmosphere is retained in the town centre. Alongside the particularly lively Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise, it is one of the best settings for family focused holidays on the island.
All three resorts offer various watersports including surfing, windsurfing, and canoeing. There are even submarine trips operating out of Puerto Calero and Puerto del Carmen as well as ferries to neighbouring Fuerteventura. For snorkellers and divers there’s an inviting underwater world of colourful reefs harbouring hundreds of species of fish, turtles and manta rays. And in conditions that suit both first time divers and the more experienced.
Beaches
 As to beaches, Playas de Papagayo which is only a ten minute drive from Playa Blanca conceals the most beautiful natural coves on the island. With sand sloping gently towards a crystal clear sea, at 90 meters long Playa Mujeres is the biggest, then there’s Playa de las Coloradas, Playa de las Ahogaderas and Playa de la Cera.
There are two more bays, Caleta de Congrio and Muela de Abajo, where sunbathing naked is allowed but not compulsory.
Out & About For totally man-made fun in the sun, the large Aqua Park at Costa Teguise is a mix of pools, flumes and water rides, perfect for kids and adults of all ages. The area also has the island’s only golf course, 18 holes and welcoming players of all levels.
When it comes to dining out, Lanzarote cuisine is delicious and is based around local sauces, fresh fish, pork, and special Canarian potatoes. Restaurants are renowned for freshness, good quality and hospitality. For lively nightlife head to Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise or Arrecife, the island’s capital, with their mix of bars, late night clubs and restaurants.
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