Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009 •
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Despite only measuring 60km by 40km the small Canary Island of Lanzarote offers a surprisingly large amount of things to do and see. Including close to a hundred beaches, a wealth of natural wonders, unique volcanic scenery and the many creations of a local artist called César Manrique.
Lanzarote was first conquered by Spain in the early 1400´s before becoming a strategic trading post between the New World and the Old. During the 18th and 19th centuries the island was rocked by huge eruptions which totally remodelled the interior. Leaving hundreds of volcanoes and fields of solid black lava in its wake.
This region – the Timanfaya National Park – is now the most popular visitor attraction on Lanzarote. As close to one million visitors a year come to gaze in awe at the power of Mother Nature.
Getting to Lanzarote
Flights to Lanzarote are available from most major European countries such as the UK and Germany. The majority if tourists who visit the island are British and they can currently secure very low return fares to the island with budget carriers such as easyJet and Ryanair.
Getting Around Lanzarote
The best way to explore Lanzarote is on four wheels. The island is too mountainous for bike hire and local bus services are infrequent.
Car hire in Lanzarote is much better value than on many other Spanish islands. Whilst petrol is very cheap too – at around €0.80 per litre. Tourists who want to hire a car must be over 23 years of age and present their full driving licence and a passport.
Accommodation
Good quality accommodation is available across the island. Puerto del Carmen is the oldest and biggest resort and home to the best selection of Lanzarote apartments . So this is the spot to head for if you are travelling on a budget.
There are also plenty of very good value four star hotels in the southern resort of Playa Blanca. Where room rates start at around €60 per night.
Things to do and See
As well as the must see attraction of the volcanic region visitors should explore the creations of César Manrique. Such as the Jameos del Agua, Mirador del Rio and the Cactus Garden
Lanzarote is also home to number of very pretty towns and villages. Such as Teguise – which was Lanzarote´s capital until 1852. Where there are quiet cobbled streets and old colonial buildings to explore – some of which date back as far as 1455.