Lanzarote could almost be a gateway to a different planet. It is different, not only when compared to the other islands, but to just about everything else on this planet. The extraordinary landscape of Lanzarote seems to be have been created by a crazed demon with volcanism on the brain. Weird rock formations rise out from the ground and rock tubes can be followed for ages – from the inside!! The island of Lanzarote is so different that those who know whisper in hushed tones that God was leaving the creation of Lanzarote till the eighth day – but forgot.

Lanzarote, like all the other islands in the Canary Island Archipelago is of volcanic origin but here volcanoes have been active as recently as the 18th and 19th century. Great parts of its surface are covered with ash and lava, a shattered landscape that appears not to want other organic life forms to inhabit its alien horizons.

In spite of the lack of encouragement from Nature, Lanzarote's inhabitants have made great efforts to cultivate this inhospitable land. Today large plantations of fruit and vegetables of all varieties grace the agonised slopes of ancient (and perhaps still fuming although, at the moment, relatively benign) volcanoes. Of particular interest to the casual traveller is the wine region of Geria where vineyards grow, with an air of mild trepidation it has to be said, between volcanic craters.

More information: http://www.turismolanzarote.com/

Routes and Places worth a Visit

One of the most memorable visits whilst on the island is the foundation dedicated to Cesar Manrique, a son of Lanzarote and one of Spain’s most creative artists. This foundation, as well as highlighting the work of this genial artist, also boasts a private collection of works that include contributions by such renowned authors as Picasso and Miró.

The first staging post for European incursions into the Canary Islands was enacted along the Costa del Rubicón on the southern part of the island of Lanzarote. It was here that the Norma knights John of Bettancourt and Gadifer de la Salle established their first outpost. A place of fresh water and long golden beaches, today this area is one of the most sought after by tourists. It’s crystal clear waters make it ideal for scuba diving and a great place to see the abundant sea life that lives in close contact with the coastal areas.

Important Fiestas

Arrecife: from the 1st to the 9th of February is carnival time in Lanzarote.

Playa Blanca holds the fiesta of Nuestra Señora del Carmen on the 16th July.

Teguise, the old capital of Lanzarote, holds the fiesta del Carmen on the 16th June.