Escape to Lanzarote – Island of Fire
Europe is home to some fantastic holiday destinations. But none can match Lanzarote when it comes to dramatic landscapes and scenery. As this small island in the Canaries was hit by volcanic eruptions in the 18th century – just a blink of an eye ago in geological terms. Meaning erosion has had little chance to spoil the pristine lava fields and now dormant volcanic peaks here.
Locals refer to the region where these eruptions took place as the Montañas del Fuego or Fire Mountains. And it´s easy to see why as the terrain here looks like it has been dripped in candle wax – all twisted whirls and weird lava shapes. This area occupies about 200km square of what was once prime farming land and is a real draw – welcoming well over 800,000 visitors last year alone.
Holidays in Lanzarote aren’t all about this rather unconventional beauty spot though. Back on the coast there are hundreds of lovely beaches to explore. Such as the set of bays and coves at Papagayo in the south. Recently flagged up as one of the best beaches in Spain by the Daily Telegraph. With a further contender on the north coast in the form of Famara – a huge sweeping beach and bay which is a real favourite with the surfing fraternity.
Over 50% of the islands visitors arrive on flights to Lanzarote from the UK. The British have a remarkable on going love affair with the island that dates back to the early 1970´s. Fuelled by year round sunshine, friendly locals and affordable accommodation. With British tourists in particular favouring Lanzarote apartments and villas over hotel accommodation.
The island is also enormously popular with tourists from other countries such as Germany and Eire. Whilst Spaniards head here during the summer months to get away from the furnace like heat of the mainland. As Lanzarote and the other Canaries are cooled by the Trade Winds at that time of the year. A climactic factor that also makes the island a firm favourite with the sailing set. With two excellent luxury marinas catering to their needs at Puerto Calero and Marina Rubicon.
On dry land visitors have three holiday resort to choose from. The largest of which is called Puerto del Carmen. This was a small fishing village called La Tiñosa until tourism arrived back in the early 1970´s and boasts great beaches and nightlife.
