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Where is Lanzarote?
The island of Lanzarote emerged from the North Atlantic Ocean off the West coast of Africa around 15 million years ago and is the easternmost of the Canary Islands. The island measures a total of 845.9km² and is the fourth largest of the group of islands.
The eight Canary Islands are geographically part of the African continent however, they are an autonomous region of Spain which means it is mostly self-governed and is part of the European Union. Lanzarote is part of the eastern province led by Gran Canaria and the closest neighbouring islands are Fuerteventura and La Graciosa.
What is Lanzarote known for?
The Canary Islands are known for year round sunshine, which makes it a popular destination at most times of the year. They experience mild winters and this makes it an ideal destination for those wanting to escape to warmer temperatures. In summer the temperature can average 25°C and in the winter an average of 17°C with a low likelihood of rain due to its dry, arid climate.
The island has a number of spectacular gold sand beaches, turquoise blue water and a handful of black sand beaches as a result of the volcanic minerals found on the island. Lanzarote is known as the ‘Hawaii of Europe’, as the island offers perfect conditions suited to outdoor water activities such as surfing, diving and windsurfing.
At first glance, Lanzarote’s barren landscape makes it difficult to see how to sustain life on the island, however beneath the layer of volcanic ash, fertile ground supports the growth of crops such as grapes, figs and almonds without artificial irrigation on the island.
Local food to try on the island includes fresh seafood cuisine such as Paella, papas arrugadas a locally grown potato boiled in very salty water and tasty mojo sauce which usually comes one in red and the other green. There are no rivers or lakes on the island and is a haven for cacti and succulents to thrive on the island.
Lanzarote is scattered with white sugar cube shaped buildings and they stand as a stark contrast to the dark lunar volcanic landscape. The windows and doors are mostly painted green which was the leftover paint the fishermen would use from painting their boats.
César Manrique is a celebrated local artist and architect who was inspired by the volcanic landscape to create masterpiece homes. In 1968, the tourism industry was developing fast on the island and Manrique helped to shape decisions that protected the island and emphasised the value of the natural attractions on the island such as lookouts, gardens and landscape art. These attractions include the Garden de Cactus, Jameos del Agua and Mirador del Rio.
César was an activist in protest marches on the construction of high rise buildings and this resulted in restricted tourism developments to three main areas; Puerto del Carmen, Costa del Teguise and Playa Blanca. This has allowed Lanzarote to hold onto its identity and limited the impact of mass tourism that has not been so restricted on other Canary Islands which makes it somewhat unique.
How to get to Lanzarote?
Lanzarote is a plane or ferry ride away, where you can escape to this island in the sun. As Lanzarote is the closest island to mainland Spain, there are multiple options by ferry or plane. If you plan to take a ferry from Spain this would take approximately 26-28 hours, whereas flying from Barcelona is under 3 hours.
Arrecife airport (ACE) is the main airport on the island of Lanzarote and is located just outside the town of Arrecife on the east of the island. From the UK, British Airways, Easyjet and Wizz Air, TUI and Iberia fly to Lanzarote directly. The costs of flights are relatively affordable and we were able to find tickets in low season as cheap as £9 one way. We flew from London Gatwick airport to César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport also known as Arrecife Airport which took 3 hours 40 minutes.
When is the best time to visit Lanzarote?
The weather is mild in the colder months and reaches an average low of 17°C in January. Lanzarote receives minimal rainfall due to its dry climate, which makes it pleasant to visit year-round. One of the best times to visit Lanzarote is from May to mid-October there is the least rain and the sea is still relatively warm with ocean temperatures on average 20°C.
The wettest month is December with an average of 23mm which is less than the UK’s driest month with an average of 58mm. The higher temperatures in the summer are accompanied by a pleasant breeze from the ocean to remedy that heat.
How to get around Lanzarote?
A great way to get around Lanzarote and get off the beaten track is renting a car from the airport. Some buses and taxis operate across the island. However, the cost of renting a car is relatively cheap, on average around £15 per day and it gives you total freedom.
Most of the main roads on the island are tarmac roads in good condition. Once you stray from the main roads, there are small gravel roads which become much more bumpy and dusty. You will need to take care to drive slow and avoid potholes, but it’s all part of the adventure!
There is no need to stress about parking on the island, there are plenty of options to choose from either on the side streets and at car parks which are mostly free! This is a welcome contrast to the UK where most car parks require you to pay and have specific restrictions on how long you can park for free.
How much does it cost on Lanzarote?
The currency in Lanzarote is the same as most of Europe, the Euro. In comparison to mainland Spain, costs are relatively cheaper as the island is exempt from higher tax rates. The island is exempt from VAT and locals pay a local sales tax which is around 7%.
The more popular coastal towns of Costa del Teguise, Puerta del Carmen or Playa Blanca are typically higher prices, if you head out of these towns prices are much cheaper for items such as food. However, you will be able to find Lidl supermarkets on the island which makes it affordable to buy food if you plan to stay in self-catering accommodation.
The island also hosts several food markets in Haria (every Saturday), Teguise (every Sunday) and other towns where you can find fresh produce, and artisan items. Many food items are imported to the island such as milk which can make those items more expensive. Lanzarote is not part of the EU customs union, which means you are limited on certain items as to how much you can take home.
Should I drink tap water on Lanzarote?
There is no natural drinking water source in Lanzarote due to the dry, arid climate. Ocean water is treated through a process known as desalination which makes it safe to drink. The result can be high in minerals and heavy in chlorine. It's normally safe to drink, but you might find it tastes different.
Campervans and Motorhomes in Lanzarote
Whilst we explored by rental car, we discovered a large number of camper vans and motorhomes on the island and seemed like a great means of travel to get around. There are ferries that go from mainland Huelva, Spain which takes around 26 hours.
If you don’t have your campervan or motorhome you can hire one on the island through Airbnb or other companies offer them for hire. Stay tuned for more information on this in the future if we manage to get our van on the island!
What are the best TOWNS IN LANZAROTE?
Punta Mujeres
A sleepy fishing village on the north of Lanzarote, Punta Mujeres was named after the fishermen's wives who would wait for them to return to shore. The village has a laid back, authentic charm, ocean waves crash against the rocks which provide protection to the white sugar cube houses and natural pools line the shore. If you plan to visit the tidal pools, make sure you check the tidal times as at high tide it can be dangerous to swim as the pools will be hit by ocean waves.
Where to park: There is plenty of free parking along the road into the village, we parked on C. Los Morros in Punta Mujeres.
Haria
An oasis of palm trees nestled between volcanic hills, Haria is a quiet haven in the north of Lanzarote and one of the greenest parts if the island thanks to all the palm trees. Cesar Manrique lived his final years in his home ‘Palm House’ in Haria until he was 73 years old, opening times are Sunday to Saturday 10:30-14:30 and entrance costs €10.
Every Saturday there is a craft market in the Plaza from 10am till 2:30pm showing a range of crafts and local produce. Take the time to wander the quiet streets of Haria, also known as ‘The valley of the 1000 Palms’.
Where to park: Free parking in the middle of town with easy access to the centre of Haria.
What are the best beaches in Lanzarote?
Lanzarote is the ideal destination for both the sun worshiper and adventurer. The island has a number of spectacular gold sand beaches, turquoise blue water and a handful of black sand beaches as a result of the historic volcanic minerals found on the island. Known as the ‘Hawaii of Europe’, Lanzarote offers an environment well suited to outdoor water sports such as surfing, diving and wind surfing.
Playa de Papagayo
In the south of Lanzarote, Playa de Papagayo (Papagayo Beach) is located east of the popular resort Playa Blanca. A 20 minute drive from Playa Blanca, Playa de Papagayo is a sheltered cove bay with white sand and crystal clear water. The beach can get busy and we would recommend getting there early or visiting during shoulder season (September to June).
There are several other beaches along this stretch of coastline if you like to escape the crowds like us! We walked along the cliffs surrounding Playa de Papagayo which have spectacular views over San Marcial del Rubicón.
There are two car parks Playa de Mujeres and Playa de Papagayo and either car park provides access to the beaches along this stretch of coastline. We parked in Playa de Papagayo car park and it was a 15 minute walk to Playa del Pozo which was much less crowded.
There are several walking and cycling routes you can take from the car park as there is much to explore in the area. Two restaurants overlook the beach serving food and drinks.
Where to park: It is easy to navigate, once you take the road off the roundabout which is signposted ‘Papagayo Beach’ the road turns into a gravel track which is bumpy and you will reach a ticket booth. An entrance ticket will cost €3 euros to enter and takes around 10-15 minutes to drive. After passing the ticket booth, there is a signpost to Playa Mujeres or Playa Papagayo, follow signs to Playa Papagayo which will lead to the car park and the beach is only a couple of minutes walk from the car park.
Playa de Famara
In the North West of Lanzarote, an eight kilometre stretch of fine sand makes up Playa de Famara also known as Famara beach, in the Natural Park of the Chinijo Archipelago. The beach is a great place for beginners to learn surfing and the strong winds allow other water sports such as wind surfing.
Playa de Famara is framed by the towering cliffs above and are reflected in the sand once the ocean retreats. Nearby is the authentic fishing village, La Caleta de Famara where Cesar Manrique spent many summers. We would recommend visiting here at sunset as the colours are beautiful and the cliffs catch the glow of the sun.
Where to park: When we arrived we parked on C. Brezo de Mar the winds were very strong and decided to drive a bit further on and found a spot to park that was more sheltered but requires you to drive down a dirt track named C. Bellas del Risco
El Golfo
Black sand beaches are a rare find and there aren’t many places in the world that have them and Lanzarote has four dotted across the island. The Canary Islands Black were formed from volcanic eruptions and are home to some iconic black sand beaches. These are formed from volcanic minerals and lava. The sand holds the heat of the sun and is easy to rub off and doesn’t get stuck to your feet.
El Golfo is situated on the west of the island and boasts a large black sand beach called ‘Playa de Los Ciclos’ and is backed by an emerald green lake named ‘El Lago Verde’. There is a viewing platform at the end of the walkway from the car park and you can walk along a smaller black sand beach with fishing boats.
To access the larger Playa de los Ciclos, you will have to walk around the opposite end of the beach. The car park was closed at the time we visited. The town El Golfo is lined with seafront restaurants serving fresh seafood and a fantastic place to watch the sunset. We would recommend eating at Restaurante Bogavante which has some friendly cats as an added bonus!
Where to park: Car park outside Siroco coffee shop. Good spot for sunset and having dinner. Parking at the end of the road by kids playground. Car park to access Playa de los Ciclos.
Playa de Montaña Bermeja
A black sand beach only a few minutes drive from El Golfo. Playa de Montaña Bermeja is a popular beach with surfers, with decent sized waves and easy access to the water. We preferred this beach as it was less busy than El Golfo. This was one of our favourite spots on the island to watch the surfers and experience a black sand beach. Playa de Montaña Bermeja also has it’s own green lake similar to Playa de los Ciclos.
Where to park: A small car park is located opposite the beach.
What are the best places to visit in Lanzarote?
Mirador del Rio
Cesar Manrique designed the Mirador del Rio visitor centre and it was built onto the Famara cliffs in the north of Lanzarote. A unique sunset spot overlooking the island of La Graciosa, park for free and walk to the left for the view. Otherwise, you can pay to get inside the cafe and viewpoint for €5.
Where to park: The main car park and is the Mirador del Rio is well signposted.
Timanfaya National Park
One of the first things you will notice about Lanzarote is the barren, lunar landscape. Timanfaya National Park allows you to drive amongst molten volcanic lava rock where lichens thrive as a sign of good air quality.
Entrance to the national park is free and you can drive through the park. Montañas del Fuego or Fire Mountains are a mountain range that includes Timanfaya volcano which is still active today. This is a popular attraction, where an entrance ticket costs €12. The ticket includes a bus tour of the park that takes you on a loop around the lunar landscape and allows you to get up close to the molten lava rocks.
The El Mirador restaurant is only accessible by purchasing an entrance ticket where food is cooked in the heat of the volcano. The last eruption was in 1730 and lasted a total of 6 years when most of the locals fled the island for safety!
The landscape makes the perfect backdrop for a sci-fi movie, the ground is covered in dusty red, black and sandy hues. It is a truly impressive sight, with fascinating lava formations and dramatic panoramic views of the volcanoes.
Take a guided tour around the National Park to see the stunning landscapes up close, or if you have hired a car and prefer to avoid the crowds then we would recommend driving around the National Park.
There are many hiking routes you can enjoy around the volcanic landscape and is worth booking a 3-hour guided hike around this fascinating place; Caldera de Los Cuervos, Caldera Blanca or Monte Corona.
A day trip to La Graciosa
The island of La Graciosa was officially added as the 8th Canary Island in 2018 and is designated as a nature reserve. La Graciosa is an oasis of remote, virgin sandy beaches with clear turquoise water.
The fishing village of Caleta de Sebo is isolated from the mainland of Lanzarote and fishermen used to have to climb the Famara cliffs to sell their fish.
Today, access to La Graciosa is via a daily regular ferry service which runs from Orzola on Lanzarote to Caleta de Sebo on La Graciosa. Tickets cost €26 each for a round trip and the journey takes around 30 minutes.
The two ferry operators are Lineas Maritimas Romero and Biosfera Express. They alternate times leaving to and from the ports. It is worth noting that when purchasing a return ferry ticket this can only be used by that particular ferry operator and you cannot use the other ferries, make sure you check the timetables linked above.
Book an island cruise on a luxury catamaran to discover this slice of paradise on the island of La Graciosa, this tour includes a delicious paella and the chance to swim and relax in the beautiful turquoise waters surrounding the island.
The main income is tourism to the island and many will visit for a day visit where 4x4 jeeps take tourists for a tour of the island. No vehicles other than resident vehicles are allowed on the island to reduce traffic and protect the nature reserve.
You can either walk, cycle or hire a 4x4 jeep taxi to get around. There are few bike hire shops which offer fat bikes, electric bikes etc which are a great way to get around the island. The roads and paths are easy to navigate and you must not stray far from the path to protect the biodiversity on the island.
Known for its pristine, virgin beaches La Graciosa is the perfect place to escape and get a taste of what Lanzarote would have been like before development. We would recommend that you stay for a night to experience the island and not feel rushed.
Where to stay in Lanzarote?
Hotel Fariones 5*, PUERTO DEL CARMEN
Hotel Fariones was the first resort on Lanzarote built in 1960 and was recently refurbished. Tourism was restricted to three areas on the island; Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa del Teguise. The south of the island is known for being more sheltered from the Atlantic winds, which are typical on most of the Canary Islands.
Reopened in 2020, Hotel Fariones is a luxury 5 star hotel with beautifully decorated rooms facing the sea where you can watch the sunrise and the sunset. The hotel facilities include a huge infinity pool surrounded by palm trees, a variety of restaurants, two jacuzzis, a juice bar and plenty of seating and lounging areas inside and outside.
Breakfast and dinner are served buffet style or you can dine in the other restaurants at the hotel. There is exclusive access to the infinity pool on the sunset rooftop where you can drink a cocktail and watch the sun go down. Room service is available and free access is provided to the nearby sports facility which includes gym, swimming pool and fitness classes.
Princesa Yaiza 5*, Playa Blanca
Located on the south of the island, Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort is in the town Playa Blanca a beachfront property which is just a couple of minutes walk from Playa Dorada. Playa Dorada is popular for watersports and has several bars and restaurants along the beachfront.
The hotel is a 10 minute walk from Marina Rubicon, a beautiful harbour with a selection of restaurants. The Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort comprises of outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, a spa centre, sports facilities and restaurants.
The sports facilities are free to use and also include the use of the sauna. The hotel rooms have either a balcony or patio with sea views, overlooking the pool or gardens each supplied with bathrobes, slippers, a small kitchenette and a TV.
The hotel offers a Thalassotherapy centre which plays underwater music, Turkish baths, treatments and hydro-massage and is available at an extra cost. Food is served next to the pool during the day including a juice bar and tapas.
Breakfast and dinner are served buffet style or you can dine in the other restaurants including Mexican, Italian, Japanese and gourmet Spanish cuisine available for an additional cost. The hotel is located around a 20 minute drive from Playa de Papagayo a a sheltered cove bay with white sand and crystal clear water.
