Lanzarote.
An island of stark contrasts - near white beaches, blue skies and dark volcanic landscapes - Lanzarote is a classic example of nature and tourism sitting comfortably together.
The powerful influence of renowned Lanzarote-born artist/designer, Cesar Manrique, ensured that white-painted, low-rise buildings, woodwork in one of two colours and strictly controlled development, harmonised with nature’s raw materials.
Scenically hauntingly beautiful, particularly in the Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote is also increasingly in demand for very good beaches, low-key atmosphere in most resorts and the family-friendly hotels. If you do like light-night discos and entertainment, it does exist of course, mostly in the centre of Puerto del Carmen, but it doesn’t intrude if you don’t.
The southern coast has gorgeous beaches. The western part of the island, and stretching up to the north, is a moon-like sea of volcanic ash, dotted with cones. The dark ash, widely used in gardens, contrasts strikingly with the brilliant white buildings.
Costa Teguise is a well-laid out resort, 7 kms north of Arrecife, the island’s capital. Most of the beaches are of the smaller variety, although Las Cucharas, popular with wind-surfers is larger. A good selection of shops, restaurants and cafeterias, while night-life is generally low-key. There is an 18-hole, par 72 golf course here, with very good facilities.
Puerto del Carmen, the main holiday resort some 9 kms from the capital, Arrecife, has a long promenade backing the sandy beach. Opposite, is a huge choice of places to eat, drink and shop, and there’s a lively night-life. In the old harbour area, there are a number of excellent typical fish restaurants. Boat excursions are plentiful, with dolphins and pilot whales often spotted. Diving enthusiasts will find an excellent centre and school here, with beginners courses also available.
Playa de los Pocillos, also has a huge beach, good hotels, and some nice restaurants. Entertainments mostly centre around the hotels, although livelier Puerto del Carmen is easily accessible by bus or taxi, and is just about 3 kms away.
Puerto Calero, just 6 kms west of Puerto del Carmen, has developed around its superb sports marina, popular with Spanish families at weekends. But for the rest of the time, it’s a modern, attractive spot in which to relax, with most activity centred around the excellent hotels here. Around the marina are clustered the few shops and restaurants, which have a good reputation.
Playa Blanca, and nearby Papagayo, on the southern-most tip, are popular with families and attract those who don’t want the bright lights and late nights. The outstanding beaches between the two resorts include Playa Dorada and the beaches of Papagayo and Las Coloradas and the newly-developed Rubicon Marina, close to some of the best hotels in the area, is a good spot to enjoy a meal or refreshment and take in the views. Close to the harbour in Playa Blanca are some excellent fish restaurants.
Not to be missed is a visit to the lunar-like landscapes of the Timanfaya National Park including a camel-ride up Montana del Fuego (Fire Mountain). The nearby island of Fuerteventura can also be visited by boat from Playa Blanca. In the north, the underground lake and caves of Jameos del Agua is an imaginative venue for a restaurant and musical concerts.
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