Lanzarote tourist information
Tourist and travel info about Lanzarote!
Holiday Villas, cottages, apartments and rural homes for rent in Lanzarote
Lanzarote is situated just 70 miles off the coast of Africa and is the most easterly of the Canary Islands. The island is 37 miles (60km) long and 12 miles (20 km) wide, making it the fourth largest island in the Canaries.
Lanzarote enjoys a mild dry climate with average daytime temperatures ranging from about 21°C in January to 29°C in August. Annual rainfall is just 140mm (5.5 inches). This makes Lanzarote the perfect year-round destination.
As with 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, so much so that parts of Planet of the Apes were shot here.
The dry climate (and lack of erosion) means that the Volcanic Landscape appears much as it did just after the eruptions.
Amongst the many stunning Volcanic features of Lanzarote is the longest Volcanic Tunnel in the world, the Atlantida Tunnel, which is over 7 km long and includes the La Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua.
Despite the Volcanic nature of the island, Lanzarote has several beautiful white beaches such as at Playa Blanca and Papagayo.
Local authority regulations on the amount and style of development mean that there is no billboard advertising and no high rise buildings in Lanzarote.
Lanzarote has a large variety of wonderful beaches. From the beautiful white sands of the North to the dark volcanic sands of Puerto Del Carmen, one will be amazed by this contrast that is unique to Lanzarote
The main beach in Puerto Del Carmen is known as Playa Grande. This is a long beach facing the busy resort. There are numerous beaches in the area running from Arrecife airport, Guacimeta, right through to the old town of Puerto Del Carmen. Adjacent to the old town lies a beautiful picturesque beach, Playa Chica. This beach is host to a wide variety of sporting activities. Here one can take diving lessons, rent jet skis, go Parasailing or do a touch of Snorkeling. In the South of the Island near the resort of Playa Blanca lies the most beautiful beach of all, Papagaya. This fantastic white beach is a must for beach lovers and although nudist bathing is common it is by no means compulsory.
For those who love surfing and Body Boarding the beaches of Famara and La Santa, in the West, both present fabulous opportunities. Famara is world famous for its surf but would not be recommended to the fainthearted.
La Santa Sports Complex, as well as being the training ground for international sports stars, is also surrounded by a beach and Wind Surfing lake. At the North of the island, near Orsola , there are a number of white sandy beaches. The sand is blown over from the Sahara desert. The beaches are isolated but can be accessed by foot. In the Northeast lies the Resort, Costa Teguise. The main beach here is known as Las Cucharas and is famous amongst the windsurfing community. In fact it has been the breeding ground of international champions.
Finally, Arrecife, Lanzarotes capital, has a wonderful golden beach, El Reducto. This beach faces a number of Canarian bars where one can have traditional coffee, Cortado, or a relaxing cocktail.
The annual carnival is a long awaited event in the Lanzarote calendar.
Processions are held each year in Arrecife, the capital of the island, and in the major tourist areas. Carnival usually comes to town - to Playa Blanca - at the end of February or the beginning of March.
Some say that the origins of these festivities are religious, whilst others claim that they date back to pagan times.
Playa Blancas procession makes its way through the town to the square near the church, accompanied by bands, where celebrations go on until the early hours of the morning.
The Seven Centres of Art, Culture and Tourism:
Mirador del Rio (El Rio Belvedere)
Breathtaking views from this most northerly point of the Famara Cliffs overlooking La Graciosa Isle and three tiny islets out to sea, as well as the multi-coloured salt ponds directly below on the seashore. The uninterrupted vista can be enjoyed from an indoor snack bar or an outdoor observation terrace.
Montaņas del Fuego (Fire Mountains, Timanfaya National Park)
This area resulted from six years of intermittent volcanic eruptions from 1730 to 1736. A camel ride round the rim of an extinct cone, a restaurant where food can be observed cooking from the heat of the volcano below, and a guided coach tour with multi-lingual commentary, through scenery unchanged since the eruptions, allows visitors a clear picture of the staggering natural catastrophe that took place.
Casa Museo y Monumento al Campesino (House and Monument to the Farm Labourer)
The farm house museum - which contains a retaurant serving local cuisine - and monument were built as a tribute to the Lanzarote farmer. Nearby, artisans produce local arts and crafts in workshops adjoining a typical Lanzarote wine bodega. A second restaurant also opens for dinner with folklore music several nights a week.
Castillo de San Jose (International Contemporary Art Museum)
Built as a fortress in 1799 to protect the harbour from pirate attacks, the interior was converted in 1974 to house a permanent exhibition of modern art in the upper halls and stairwell. On the lower level a first class restaurant with floor-to-ceiling wrap around windows, overlooking the harbour, serves excellent local and international cuisine.
Cueva de los Verdes (The Greens Cave)
Named after owners called Green and for colour in the roofs and walls, the Caves form a representative section of the seven kilometre long Atlantida volcanic tunnel, the longest volcanic tunnel in the world. A guided tour leaves hourly on the hour - watch out for a truly amazing optical illusion. This was a cave used by the inhabitants of Lanzarote in times of trouble.
Jameos del Agua (Water Grotto)
A grotto formed when a stream of molten lava met the nearby waters of the Atlantic, the Grotto contains an underground lake with an albino crab unique in the sea world at this depth, an outdoor pool area abounding with lush sub-tropical vegetation and a concert hall located amid an underground volcanic cavern. Volcanic history is depicted in the upper level. Breathtaking by day - folklore entertainment with buffet dinner three nights a week.
Jardin del Cactus (The Cactus Garden)
Situated in Guatiza village on the north east coast, the Cactus Garden is home to over 10,000 cacti and succulents of 1,450 different species growing in beds at ground level and in several levels of terracing. This area is the centre of Lanzarotes cochineal industry with several hundered acres planted with the prickly pear (or, tuneracactus) from which the cochineal beetle is collected for its dye.
Other spectacular sights of Lanzarote
El Golfo
A stunning contrast of black beach, deep green lagoon and volcanic cliff, this unique sight can certainly be described as spectacular. El Golfo (the lagoon - not the nearby village of the same name) is the remaining half of a volcano which now forms part of the coastline. The western half has been carried away by the sea, leaving in its place only a handful of rocks (which have survived erosion) rearing up out of the sea. The backdrop of the remaining half of the volcano reveals some bizarre formations - quite out of this world.The green lagoon is apparently caused by the algae living in the top layer of water. It is said to be very deep and to have subterranean links with the sea.The adjoining village of El Golfo, which has a number of restaurants, faces the full force of the Atlantic Ocean.
Famara
With its magnificent backdrop of imposing cliffs, this beach on the north-west coast of the island is one to remember - and one for the family photograph album. The currents here are very strong and the waves can be huge. It is, therefore, not a beach from which most people would consider swimming. Ideal, of course, for those who enjoy windsurfing or surfboarding. A pleasant walk along the beach and over the rocks will bring you to the attractive little village of La Caleta.
La Geria
The biggest wine growing region on the Canary Islands. Cacti are used in the cultivation of vines. A pit is dug, in which a cactus is planted. The vine is then grafted onto this. The whole area is next covered with picon and, finally, a low semi-circular dry-stone wall is built around the young plant. These walls, although basically practical, also create very interesting artistic patterns - especially when viewed in a mass. Yet another spectacular sight !!
La Graciosa
Off the north coast of Lanzarote, La Graciosa has an area of about 27 square kilometres and its highest point is just 266 metres above sea level. At its narrowest the stretch of sea between this island and Lanzarote is about one kilometre, and only a few metres deep. It is rich in fish life. One of the smallest of the Canary Islands, La Graciosa is now (since 1986) a protected nature reserve. Around 500 people live here, making their living almost exclusively from fishing. The island can be reached by ferry from Orzola.
Los Hervideros
The name means the boiling pots - and you can understand how the area got that name when you see the sea pounding in at high tide - especially when there is a strong following wind. It is quite something to see the huge waves drive into the narrowing space between the cliffs and then explode into the numerous crevices and lava bubbles, from which they are repelled with great force. A sea spectacular.
Papagayo
At the southernmost tip of the island (virtually an extension of our town of Playa Blanca) are the crystal clear waters and white sands of Papagayo. The half dozen beaches are separated by rocky headlands. Its a bumpy ride to the beach on the unmade road and will cost you 500ptas for admission, but it is well worth it. Alternatively, a walk from Playa Blanca will take you about an hour and will be a rewarding experience. Views of the nearby islands of Fuerteventura and Lobos accompany you all the way. There are no services, so take some supplies and prepare for a climb down to the beach.
Puerto Calero
A beautiful marina has been constructed at Puerto Calero and this is one of my favourite places. It is a must for anyone interested in boats and sailing. It is possible to go for an underwater trip in a real (yellow) submarine - something which I havent done yet, but which I intend to do before long. Puerto Calero is situated between Puerto del Carmen and Playa Quemada. A meal here, at one of the restaurants on the side of the jetty and surrounded by beautiful scenery, is a pleasant experience.
Teguise Market
One of the weekly attractions staged on the island is the Sunday market at Teguise. Visitors flock from all parts. It starts at 0900hrs and you can try your hand at bargaining with the vendors. It is a very lively event.
Lanzarote enjoys a mild dry climate with average daytime temperatures ranging from about 21°C in January to 29°C in August. Annual rainfall is just 140mm (5.5 inches). This makes Lanzarote the perfect year-round destination.
As with 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, so much so that parts of Planet of the Apes were shot here.
The dry climate (and lack of erosion) means that the Volcanic Landscape appears much as it did just after the eruptions.
Amongst the many stunning Volcanic features of Lanzarote is the longest Volcanic Tunnel in the world, the Atlantida Tunnel, which is over 7 km long and includes the La Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua.
Despite the Volcanic nature of the island, Lanzarote has several beautiful white beaches such as at Playa Blanca and Papagayo.
Local authority regulations on the amount and style of development mean that there is no billboard advertising and no high rise buildings in Lanzarote.
Lanzarote has a large variety of wonderful beaches. From the beautiful white sands of the North to the dark volcanic sands of Puerto Del Carmen, one will be amazed by this contrast that is unique to Lanzarote
The main beach in Puerto Del Carmen is known as Playa Grande. This is a long beach facing the busy resort. There are numerous beaches in the area running from Arrecife airport, Guacimeta, right through to the old town of Puerto Del Carmen. Adjacent to the old town lies a beautiful picturesque beach, Playa Chica. This beach is host to a wide variety of sporting activities. Here one can take diving lessons, rent jet skis, go Parasailing or do a touch of Snorkeling. In the South of the Island near the resort of Playa Blanca lies the most beautiful beach of all, Papagaya. This fantastic white beach is a must for beach lovers and although nudist bathing is common it is by no means compulsory.
For those who love surfing and Body Boarding the beaches of Famara and La Santa, in the West, both present fabulous opportunities. Famara is world famous for its surf but would not be recommended to the fainthearted.
La Santa Sports Complex, as well as being the training ground for international sports stars, is also surrounded by a beach and Wind Surfing lake. At the North of the island, near Orsola , there are a number of white sandy beaches. The sand is blown over from the Sahara desert. The beaches are isolated but can be accessed by foot. In the Northeast lies the Resort, Costa Teguise. The main beach here is known as Las Cucharas and is famous amongst the windsurfing community. In fact it has been the breeding ground of international champions.
Finally, Arrecife, Lanzarotes capital, has a wonderful golden beach, El Reducto. This beach faces a number of Canarian bars where one can have traditional coffee, Cortado, or a relaxing cocktail.
The annual carnival is a long awaited event in the Lanzarote calendar.
Processions are held each year in Arrecife, the capital of the island, and in the major tourist areas. Carnival usually comes to town - to Playa Blanca - at the end of February or the beginning of March.
Some say that the origins of these festivities are religious, whilst others claim that they date back to pagan times.
Playa Blancas procession makes its way through the town to the square near the church, accompanied by bands, where celebrations go on until the early hours of the morning.
The Seven Centres of Art, Culture and Tourism:
Mirador del Rio (El Rio Belvedere)
Breathtaking views from this most northerly point of the Famara Cliffs overlooking La Graciosa Isle and three tiny islets out to sea, as well as the multi-coloured salt ponds directly below on the seashore. The uninterrupted vista can be enjoyed from an indoor snack bar or an outdoor observation terrace.
Montaņas del Fuego (Fire Mountains, Timanfaya National Park)
This area resulted from six years of intermittent volcanic eruptions from 1730 to 1736. A camel ride round the rim of an extinct cone, a restaurant where food can be observed cooking from the heat of the volcano below, and a guided coach tour with multi-lingual commentary, through scenery unchanged since the eruptions, allows visitors a clear picture of the staggering natural catastrophe that took place.
Casa Museo y Monumento al Campesino (House and Monument to the Farm Labourer)
The farm house museum - which contains a retaurant serving local cuisine - and monument were built as a tribute to the Lanzarote farmer. Nearby, artisans produce local arts and crafts in workshops adjoining a typical Lanzarote wine bodega. A second restaurant also opens for dinner with folklore music several nights a week.
Castillo de San Jose (International Contemporary Art Museum)
Built as a fortress in 1799 to protect the harbour from pirate attacks, the interior was converted in 1974 to house a permanent exhibition of modern art in the upper halls and stairwell. On the lower level a first class restaurant with floor-to-ceiling wrap around windows, overlooking the harbour, serves excellent local and international cuisine.
Cueva de los Verdes (The Greens Cave)
Named after owners called Green and for colour in the roofs and walls, the Caves form a representative section of the seven kilometre long Atlantida volcanic tunnel, the longest volcanic tunnel in the world. A guided tour leaves hourly on the hour - watch out for a truly amazing optical illusion. This was a cave used by the inhabitants of Lanzarote in times of trouble.
Jameos del Agua (Water Grotto)
A grotto formed when a stream of molten lava met the nearby waters of the Atlantic, the Grotto contains an underground lake with an albino crab unique in the sea world at this depth, an outdoor pool area abounding with lush sub-tropical vegetation and a concert hall located amid an underground volcanic cavern. Volcanic history is depicted in the upper level. Breathtaking by day - folklore entertainment with buffet dinner three nights a week.
Jardin del Cactus (The Cactus Garden)
Situated in Guatiza village on the north east coast, the Cactus Garden is home to over 10,000 cacti and succulents of 1,450 different species growing in beds at ground level and in several levels of terracing. This area is the centre of Lanzarotes cochineal industry with several hundered acres planted with the prickly pear (or, tuneracactus) from which the cochineal beetle is collected for its dye.
Other spectacular sights of Lanzarote
El Golfo
A stunning contrast of black beach, deep green lagoon and volcanic cliff, this unique sight can certainly be described as spectacular. El Golfo (the lagoon - not the nearby village of the same name) is the remaining half of a volcano which now forms part of the coastline. The western half has been carried away by the sea, leaving in its place only a handful of rocks (which have survived erosion) rearing up out of the sea. The backdrop of the remaining half of the volcano reveals some bizarre formations - quite out of this world.The green lagoon is apparently caused by the algae living in the top layer of water. It is said to be very deep and to have subterranean links with the sea.The adjoining village of El Golfo, which has a number of restaurants, faces the full force of the Atlantic Ocean.
Famara
With its magnificent backdrop of imposing cliffs, this beach on the north-west coast of the island is one to remember - and one for the family photograph album. The currents here are very strong and the waves can be huge. It is, therefore, not a beach from which most people would consider swimming. Ideal, of course, for those who enjoy windsurfing or surfboarding. A pleasant walk along the beach and over the rocks will bring you to the attractive little village of La Caleta.
La Geria
The biggest wine growing region on the Canary Islands. Cacti are used in the cultivation of vines. A pit is dug, in which a cactus is planted. The vine is then grafted onto this. The whole area is next covered with picon and, finally, a low semi-circular dry-stone wall is built around the young plant. These walls, although basically practical, also create very interesting artistic patterns - especially when viewed in a mass. Yet another spectacular sight !!
La Graciosa
Off the north coast of Lanzarote, La Graciosa has an area of about 27 square kilometres and its highest point is just 266 metres above sea level. At its narrowest the stretch of sea between this island and Lanzarote is about one kilometre, and only a few metres deep. It is rich in fish life. One of the smallest of the Canary Islands, La Graciosa is now (since 1986) a protected nature reserve. Around 500 people live here, making their living almost exclusively from fishing. The island can be reached by ferry from Orzola.
Los Hervideros
The name means the boiling pots - and you can understand how the area got that name when you see the sea pounding in at high tide - especially when there is a strong following wind. It is quite something to see the huge waves drive into the narrowing space between the cliffs and then explode into the numerous crevices and lava bubbles, from which they are repelled with great force. A sea spectacular.
Papagayo
At the southernmost tip of the island (virtually an extension of our town of Playa Blanca) are the crystal clear waters and white sands of Papagayo. The half dozen beaches are separated by rocky headlands. Its a bumpy ride to the beach on the unmade road and will cost you 500ptas for admission, but it is well worth it. Alternatively, a walk from Playa Blanca will take you about an hour and will be a rewarding experience. Views of the nearby islands of Fuerteventura and Lobos accompany you all the way. There are no services, so take some supplies and prepare for a climb down to the beach.
Puerto Calero
A beautiful marina has been constructed at Puerto Calero and this is one of my favourite places. It is a must for anyone interested in boats and sailing. It is possible to go for an underwater trip in a real (yellow) submarine - something which I havent done yet, but which I intend to do before long. Puerto Calero is situated between Puerto del Carmen and Playa Quemada. A meal here, at one of the restaurants on the side of the jetty and surrounded by beautiful scenery, is a pleasant experience.
Teguise Market
One of the weekly attractions staged on the island is the Sunday market at Teguise. Visitors flock from all parts. It starts at 0900hrs and you can try your hand at bargaining with the vendors. It is a very lively event.
Holiday ideas
Rural homes Lanzarote [3]
Beach villas Lanzarote [7]
Luxury villas Lanzarote [3]
Beach apartments Lanzarote [6]
Luxury apartments Lanzarote [4]
Family holidays Lanzarote [9]
Cheap rentals Lanzarote [1]
Golf homes Lanzarote [2]
Summer holidays Lanzarote [15]
Disability holidays Lanzarote [3]
Tourist attractions Lanzarote [4]
Holiday apartments Lanzarote [6]
Holiday villas Lanzarote [9]
Walking holidays Lanzarote [2]
Holiday rentals in Lanzarote
Rural homes Lanzarote [3]
Beach villas Lanzarote [7]
Luxury villas Lanzarote [3]
Beach apartments Lanzarote [6]
Luxury apartments Lanzarote [4]
Family holidays Lanzarote [9]
Cheap rentals Lanzarote [1]
Golf homes Lanzarote [2]
Summer holidays Lanzarote [15]
Disability holidays Lanzarote [3]
Tourist attractions Lanzarote [4]
Holiday apartments Lanzarote [6]
Holiday villas Lanzarote [9]
Walking holidays Lanzarote [2]
Holiday rentals in Lanzarote
