Thanks to its great year round climate it’s possible to enjoy holidays in Lanzarote at any time of the year.  As the fourth largest Canary Islands is located close to the coast of West Africa – creating a semi tropical climate that makes it warm enough to hit the beach even in January.

The seven strong island chain of the Canaries are part of the EU and owned by Spain.  Making them a familiar destination even though they are located hundreds of miles south of the Spanish mainland and are a four hour flight from the UK.

The island was famously rocked by volcanic eruptions during the 1730´s, which went on for no less than six years and which left large swathes of the interior completely submerged in lava.  Toddy this area is a UNESCO protected biosphere and one of the most treasured national parks in Spain.  Whilst also providing the backdrop for numerous science fiction films, such as the current release from Warners, Clash of the Titans 3.

The island is best explored by car – as local bus services are infrequent.  Fortunately car hire in Lanzarote is very well priced at just €15 per day for A small basic model.  Whilst the island is small and therefore managaebale to tour.  With the volcanic region top of the list of things to see for most visitors.

Lanzarote has much more to offer than just volcanoes and sunshine alone though.  As there are close to 100 beaches to explore as well as plenty of pretty little villages and towns.  Such as the former capital of Teguise, which is one of the oldest Spanish settlements in the Canary Islands and hence home to hundreds of historic buildings.  Such as the Palacio de Spinola – the former home of a rich nobleman which is now a popular house museum and an impressive example of a colonial style Lanzarote property.

Many visitors sadly don’t make it out of the main resorts – which is where the bulk of the best accommodation in Lanzarote is located.  That´s a shame – as Lanzarote has a lot to offer and boasts a strong cultural heritage.  Best epitomised by the work of the famous local artist César Manrique – part artist, part architect.  Who was responsible for developing most of the leading tourist attractions on the island such as the Mirador del Rio and the Cactus Garden.

Manrique was also instrumental in gaining UNESCO protected status for the island of his birth.  Which was awarded in 1994 two years after his death.