Although the easternmost of the Canary Islands is not particularly glitzy or flashy, it has enjoyed something of a resurgence in recent years. It’s far more up market than you might think and offers prospective holiday-makers an abundance of activities. Big tour operators like Thomson offer great deals on flights to Lanzarote. We offer our top five tips below to get you started.
Cesar Manrique Foundation
Once you’ve booked your flights to Lanzarote, make your first port of call the Cesar Manrique Foundation. Manrique was an architect, artist and environmentalist who campaigned against the rampant development of the island. His name is synonymous with Lanzarote and his former home is now dedicated to his life’s work. The ground floor is made up of exhibition space, while the house, built into boulders in a lava field, is a work of art in itself.
Teguise
This little town, the former capital of the island, was founded in the 15th century. It boasts handsome colonial houses, cobbled streets and a bustling Sunday market. Be warned, however, that it can be very busy during the summer months. Haria market, which takes place on Saturdays and sells both local produce and crafts, may be a more sensible alternative.
Timanfaya National Park
A vast black landscape whose focal point is the Islote de Hilario volcano, Timanfaya National Park counts as one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island. If the striated rock foundations don’t get you, then the camel safari must!
Go surfing
Lanzarote has long enjoyed a reputation as one of the world’s best watersports destinations. And indeed, what could be more enjoyable than taking a trip out to Famara in the north west of the island, where you can try kite boarding and surfing, among other things, against an unbeatably dramatic backdrop of rugged mountain cliffs?
Food and drink
After all that time spent on the water, you will have earned a slap up meal or two. It’s a good idea to eat in simple village restaurants for inexpensive but high quality local fare. El Fondeadero, near Arrecife port, comes highly recommended. Try the fish or papas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes). If you’re day-tripping in Timanfaya, meanwhile, the Cesar Manrique designed El Diablo restaurant serves meat and fish grilled using the heat that rises inside the volcano.
Sources:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destination/spain/lanzarote/49676/Lanzarote-attractions.html
