Not just sun, sea and sand – there is more to Lanzarote

Strategically located in the Canary Islands, Lanzarote has a year-round average temperature of 22 degrees and more than 3000 hours of sun per year, which makes it an ideal destination to visit.

Lanzarote is an island of extreme and unusual beauty with its rugged landscapes of jagged black volcanoes, which contrasts strongly with the wide sandy beaches and the sleepy green valleys of the northern part of the island.

The extraordinary volcanic upheavals on Lanzarote have shaped a surprising landscape. The island is covered by multi-coloured lava which is especially spectacular at Timanfaya National Park. The Mountains of Fire National Park, often compared to the moon´s landscape, give a chance to discover one of the most spectacular volcanic landscapes in the world.

The island was granted World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1993. This was largely thanks to the work of the local artist Cesar Manrique, who managed to combine the natural resources of the island with manmade constructions but still retain the island´s unique beauty. The seven Centres Of Art, Culture and Tourism designed by the artist are considered a must visit in the island.

Opportunities for outdoor activities abound, including watersports, golf, walking and cycling routes. Canaries cuisine is excellent and local wine well worth a try.

Rural Lanzarote

Yes, it is a volcanic island and not green everywhere, but it is the unusual combination of lunar landscape and fertile farmland that create such contrasts. Our clients are always looking for a “different” type of holiday and we are pleased to offer the lovely La Casona de Yaiza. Yaiza is easily accessible from the airport, beach or Puerto del Carmen and yet has a much more “local” and peaceful atmosphere. The village can cater for your daily needs with shops, banks and restaurants. The beaches at Papagayo are the best on the island and worth a visit.

This area is a good base from which to explore. Visit the home which has become the foundation of artist Cesar Manrique or the wine growing areas nearby. Obviously a trip to the Timanfaya National Park and Fire Mountain are on most holiday agendas. We are sure that this type of holiday will appeal to those looking for something a little different. Why not combine a resort stay in Teguise, Playa Blanca or Playa de los Pocillos on the coast with the La Casona de Yaiza, we’d be happy to offer you advice.

Our resorts

Puerto del Carmen

Formerly a fishing village this is one of the main tourist areas on the island and is popular because it has pretty much everything a holiday maker would wish for.  It is only 10 minutes by car from the airport and situated on a 6 km golden sand beach on the south coast of Lanzarote. With over a hundred restaurants, offering anything from fast food to gourmet, to choose from and with a wide range of boutiques and shop also with a huge range from local arts and crafts to designer clothes, shoes or jewellery this town is a hive of activity.
In the evenings, in addition to the restaurants, the bars and nightclubs often have rock and roll, jazz, salsa, flamenco and folklore entertainment.

The area in and around Puerto del Carmen is therefore ideal for those seeking year round sunbathing, sporting activities and nightlife.

Playa Blanca

The most southerly resort and the most recently developed on Lanzarote and although still expanding is generally a quieter resort than Puerto del Carmen. Ferries operate from the little harbour to Fuerteventura only 20 minutes away, and you can also take boat trips from here. The resort and main hotels are on either side of the original little fishing village which is linked by the promenade – a very pleasant walk mostly along the sea front.
As well as the main attraction being its beaches Playa Blanca has a choice of restaurants and bars, there are some excellent fish restaurants here, and a selection of the usual tourist shops. But if you are looking for a more sophisticated shopping experience visit the new Marina Rubicon which is proving to be the “in” place with  its boutiques, restaurants and bars, it is located on the outskirts of the main town next to the Melia Volcan hotel.
Nightlife in Playa Blanca is limited to the bars, restaurants and, of course, hotels, and reflects the quieter style of this resort.  In addition to small beaches around Playa Blanca the islands most famous and sought after are Papagayo which are only a short distance away, but they are access by dirt tracks rather than road – which is probably why they are not over developed. A golf course is planned for this area and as soon as more is known we will post the details here. Playa Blanca does suit those who prefer a quieter resort but with enough facilities to satisfy.

Teguise

Situated on the coast in the central part of the island, Costa Teguise is another of Lanzarote’s main tourist resorts and is only 20 minutes by car from the airport. Our hotel here, the Melia Gran Salinas is on the outskirts of Teguise but within walking distance of some of the resorts facilities.
Originally a village and the island’s historic capital the old town of Teguise has some interesting areas to explore and on Sundays has a bustling market. Around the town, the area has been developed into a tourist resort and has regained its popularity as much renovation work has been done on a resort that started back in the 1970’s.
The beaches perhaps have a little more wind than say Puerto del Carmen but this does make it a good area for windsurfers and the breeze is welcome on warm summer days.
The area is well located for exploring attractions in the north of the island, including Jameos del Agua and the Jardin de Cactus. Many activities are centred around the beach, but cycling and running are popular too as the roads are quieter here. Of course Costa Teguise has the only (currently) Golf course on the island. As with most purpose built resorts there is no shortage of shops, restaurants and bars and nightlife is lively but not boistrous.

Yaiza

This is where our rural property Casona De Yaiza is located.  A charming, typical whitewashed village that has, in recent years, won the “Prettiest village in Spain” award, twice!
During the early 1700’s volcanic eruptions this village survived when many surrounding it didn’t.  The lava streams split before reaching Yaiza and passed by on either side, so many of the squares and buildings from the 17th century still survive including the pretty church Nuestro Senora de los Remedios which has a Madonna statue that legend has is periodically bathed in a mysterious blue light. The less cynical may think this is what protected the village in the past.
As a typical quiet village there is obviously not a vast amount to do but perhaps that is the charm, relax with a coffee, wander the streets, perhaps look into one of the few galleries and generally just absorb the lovely atmosphere.

Getting Around

Care hire is still probably the best ways to discover any destination and driving in Lanzarote is very straightforward and we work with two very reputable companies.  So if this does appeal don’t forget your driving licence!
Alternatively if Cycling is more up your street then there are bikes for hire, our representative or the hotel reception will let you know the nearest location.  If you are going out on bikes, remember Lanzarote is not flat so you would need to be prepared for a few uphill climbs one way or another.  But what a great way to enjoy the scenery!
Buses are obviously another alternative but do not run to very specific timetables our representative will advise you.
Taxis can be either flagged down when they have a green light on or there are taxi ranks or reception in your hotel will willingly call one for you, for short journeys this is probably the most economical and convenient.  All taxis are metered.

Things to buy: Genuine local embroidery and ceramics, cameras, watches, jewellery, cigars and flowers.

Prestige Plus in Lanzarote

Private taxi transfers.

Welcome gift of fruit or wine in your room on arrival.

Travel guide to the Canaries.

The superb support and services of our local team.