Lanzarote Tourist Information
Lanzarote is the easternmost and the fourth largest of the Canary Islands. It is situated in the Atlantic Ocean about 80 miles (125km) off the coast of Africa. The island is notable for its eerie-like volcanic landscape and popular family resorts. Unlike many other Spanish holiday destinations, high-rise development has been avoided here. Temperatures on Lanzarote remain fairly constant throughout the year, with an annual average of about 21 Celsius.
The capital of Lanzarote, Arrecife, is situated on the island's southern coast. This port city has several traditional restaurants serving local cuisine, a couple of historic castles and a variety of shops. To the west of Arrecife is the modern resort of Costa Teguise, popular with both families and windsurfers alike. Lanzarote's former capital, the historic town of Teguise, is a short distance inland from this resort.
The island's liveliest resort, Puerto del Carmen, is about 10 miles west of Arrecife. A former fishing village, Puerto del Carmen boasts a 2-mile beach backed by a long promenade. There are also plenty of bars, restaurants and nightspots. The two quieter resorts of Playa de los Pocillos and Matagorda are just along the coast from Puerto del Carmen.
On the southern tip of Lanzarote is the old fishing port of Playa Blanca. Now a popular resort, Playa Blanca boasts some lovely sandy beaches and stunning views towards the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura. The beaches of Papagayo, regarded by many as the best on Lanzarote, are situated close by.
The Timanfaya National Park occupies a large area of southern Lanzarote. Formed in the early 18th century when around 100 volcanoes erupted in succession, this Martian-like landscape is the island's top attraction. At the summit of Timanfaya (fire mountain) is the glass-walled El Diablo restaurant. Meat is cooked here using the heat from an outdoor crater. Close to the park is the El Golfo lagoon, where Raquel Welch battled against prehistoric creatures in the film, One Million Years BC.
The caves of Los Verdes in the north of the island are also worth visiting. Formed around 5,000 years ago by streams of molten lava, these caves provided a good hideout for the natives when pirates threatened Lanzarote. If you go on a guided tour, watch out for the fascinating optical illusion at the end - but don't tell anyone the secret!
One name strongly associated with Lanzarote is that of the architect and sculptor Cesar Manrique. Born on the island in 1919, Manrique designed many of Lanzarote's best-loved attractions including the Cactus Gardens near Guatiza, and the Mirador del Rio viewpoint on the northen coastline. The latter is set into the cliffs overlooking the small island of Graciosa. Manrique also successfully campaigned against over development on the island.
Special events in Lanzarote include the Fiesta del Carmen in mid-August. This lively carnival held in Puerto del Carmen features plenty of live music and processions. The colourful Fiesta de San Gines in Arrecife, complete with fireworks and funfair, takes place around the same time.
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A brief guide with tourist information, travel tips and useful holiday advice about Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain.
For more advice and tourist information about Lanzarote please see Lanzarote