Lanzarote

Stunning volcanic scenery, white-cube villages home to eccentric artist Cesar Manrique

There is so much more to Lanzarote than its Brits abroad reputation.  Visit the centre of the island with the stunning Timanfaya volcanic park and the quirky art installations of Cesar Manrique and you will see a whole different side to the island.  Thanks to the influence of Manrique there are no real high rise developments in Lanzarote and in the interior there are some pretty white cube villages.  When the Timanfaya volcano erupted in 1730 a quarter of Lanzarote was covered with lava and driving along the tarmac roads bordered by lava boulders is like driving on another planet.  Highlights of Lanzarote include:

  • Wine tasting in the lava fields of La Geria  where vines are protected by semi-circular zocos. 
  • Driving into Timanfaya national park for a coach trip around the park.
  • Book a table at sunset at a fish restaurant in El Golfo where you can sample the day’s catch whilst watching the stunning sunset.
  • Spend a day on the totally undeveloped beach of Papagayo in a protected national park.  Clothing optional.  
  • Visit Lag Omar the former home of Manrique and wonder at the volcanic garden and secret labyrinths.
  • Cycle the smooth tarmac roads on the island.
  •  

Walking on Lanzarote

Walking on the island of Lanzarote is all about the unique volcanic landscape and many of the trails wind their way across lava flows. As a result the paths are easy to spot but they are also well marked and there are decent walking guidebooks and maps available. Walking in Timanfaya National Park is restricted due to conservation but there are some trails available including a walk to a small caldera where you can walk into the exploded volcano cone. A popular walk is to the summit of Caldera Blanca – a walk across lava flow dotted with pale lichens to the caldera which is half a mile in diameter. There are great views of the crater from the top.

Key Facts about Lanzarote

  • Flying time: 4 hours
  • Time difference: +1 hour
  • Currency: Euro
  • Best time of year to travel: Year round

Lanzarote Photo Gallery

Click on an image to launch the slideshow.

Papagayo Beach
Cacti
Timanfaya National Park
Volcanic Vineyards
by Cesar Manrique
lanzarote yaiza

Ideas for a trip to Lanzarote

Here are some ideas for trips to Lanzarote all of which can be adapted for you and we are always happy to create a bespoke trip from scratch.

From £919

per person excl flights but incl luggage transfers

Walking on Lanzarote

A West to East self-guided walking tour of Lanzarote, starting from Yaiza in the west to Orzola at its northernmost tip. This walking holiday follows a varied and scenic route along the famous GR 131, the long-distance trail across the Canaries. Completed in 2014, this 71.5km long trail was developed to showcase the best of Lanzarote's natural habitat. Accommodation includes family-run bed and breakfasts, a small hotel restored by Cesar Manrique and a Finca located right in the Timanfaya National Park.

From £1220

per person incl flights and car hire

Rural Lanzarote

Spend a week in peace and tranquility at this gorgeous C19 manor house recently and beautifully converted into an 8 bedroomed boutique hotel. Located in the quieter north of the island, the hotel can arrange hiking and biking trips (e-bikes available), tours of vineyards and whale and dolphin watching trips.

From £1715

Per person incl flights and car hire

Coastal Lanzarote

Lanzarote is blissfully free of the large scale developments that blighted other Spanish destinations and this is largely due to the influence of architect Cesar Marique. If you prefer more of a resort feel to your hotel then you can stay in an adults only chic beach 5* hotel influenced by Cesar Marique. The hotel has gardens and a meandering lagoon pool as well as tennis courts and spa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions that haven't been answered here? Send your questions to enquiries@shearwatertravel.co.uk and we'll try our best to help.

From 1 January 2021 you can visit the Canary Islands for up to 90 days in any 180 day period without a visa as a tourist.  For further information see the FCO website.

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