The Timeless Appeal of Lanzarote
The holiday island of Lanzarote has a timeless appeal that is a reflection of its unspoiled landscapes as well as its amazing climate. Along with the other Canary Islands it is the only genuine winter sun destination within Europe where temperatures can be a comfortable 20º Celsius in the middle of December.
The island’s volcanic history has created whole areas of countryside that look untouched by human hand. In the Timanfaya National Park, this is actually the case, as visitors are not allowed to walk on the lava fields and flows and can only view them from the tour bus.
The jagged rocks and startling colours of the volcanoes do give the island a prehistoric look, something which has inspired numerous filmmakers to shoot pictures here. But the main resorts of the island, in contrast, are well developed and harmoniously designed, with plenty of tropical planting forming a verdant backdrop.
Puerto del Carmen, as the oldest of the resorts, has numerous palm lined streets and spaces. The enclave where most of the best villas in Puerto del Carmen can be found also boasts many beautiful gardens.
But Lanzarote is not merely defined by its volcanoes, as the rugged vistas of the north of the island offer a distinctly different feel, which is far more similar to the topography of the other islands, such as Gran Canaria. The drive from the former capital of Teguise takes visitors to the highest point of the island and has spectacular views.
Thanks to the small size of Lanzarote and the fact that its roads are very quiet, driving is a pleasure. And this is enhanced by the fact that car hire in Lanzarote is considerably cheaper than in mainland Europe, as is petrol. As a result many holidaymakers find it is the best way of getting the most out of their holiday on the island.
Apart from the natural beauty, Lanzarote also has numerous man made attractions that are pleasing to the eye. Most of these were created by local artist Cesar Manrique, but even those that came later tend to follow his design ideals of working in harmony with nature.
These factors, combined with wonderful weather, account for the high number of visitors the island receives each year. And as flights to Lanzarote are only four hours from the UK, it is easy to see why people choose to come for winter sun.
