Lanzarote: the island of volcanoes

Even though all the islands in the Canaries are beautiful, Lanzarote deserves a special highlight due to its volcanic composition. Not in vain, there was where immortal Saramago lived and wrote his life’s last chapters.

The origin of Lazarote’s name comes from a sailor called Lanceloto Malocello, who arrived in the island in the early 14th Century. With almost 142.000 inhabitants, it is the third most populated island in the Canary Islands, behind of Tenerife and Gran Canaria. In Lanzarote is Timanfaya’s National Park, one of the region’s main touristic attractions. Since 1993 Lanzarote has been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

Its capital city, Arrecife, is possibly the less charming spot in the region. It does have its own airport, though, which may make things a bit easier for travelers. Near there is Puerto del Carmen, with several accommodation offers, as well as restaurants and travel agencies (that organize trips all around the islands).

If you love the sea, this is the place for you, since it offers the opportunity to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean and all kinds of water activities – from fishing to surfing.


Timanfaya National Park
A spectacular place, where magical horizons meet clear blue seas. The region is over 50 km², where it’s possible to observe over 25 volcanoes, as well as lava fields in perfect condition. There you can find Fire Mountains’ natural monument, a space that still holds certain volcanic activity, perceptible by the heat coming from the soil.


The water caves
Architect Cesar Manrique has definitely changed Lanzarote’s touristic development’s perspectives. It’s his the development of the water caves, an intervention created from a series of natural caves with the objective of showing the tourist a space for contemplating nature.

As Cueva de los Verdes, the water caves (locally called Jameos del Agua) are within a volcanic tunnel originated after La Corona’s eruption. There are at least three caves there: the small one, the large one, and the one called “La Cazuela”.

If possible (keep your eyes on their calendar), we would recommend you watched a cultural event in there – a place that will certainly make you feel as if you were dreaming. Besides these places, we suggest you visit El Jable, Famara-Guatifay, Ajaches, the volcano La Corona and, of course, the peculiar Graciosa Island.


Gastronomy
The food in Lanzarote arises from several gastronomic options throughout Canary Islands. Everything from English to Chinese, from Italian to Japanese, as well as traditional Canarian food - as you would imagine, seafood is their traditional food. When it comes to drinks, the best are definitely their local wine.


Weather
The weather in the Canaries is always stable due to its geographic localization, with pleasant temperatures of about 25ºC. That means you’ll be fine whenever you choose to go. If you’re not into crowds, though, avoid the busy months of December and January, and also the European summer (from June to September).


In short, Lanzarote is a unique destination. Between the ocean and the volcanoes are starry, charming nights, and intense blue skies.