Despite the fact that it is a relatively small island, measuring just 58km by 38km Lanzarote , in the Canaries, is surprisingly big on attractions. Thanks to a winning combination of a number of natural wonders and the unique man made creations of the island born artist Cesar Manrique . If you are going to be visiting Lanzarote soon here we present the top 10 attractions on Lanzarote.
Timanfaya National Park
Visiting Lanzarote without taking in the Timanfaya National Park would be like going to Egypt and ignoring the pyramids. The raw terrain and hundreds of spent volcanic peaks were formed as recently as the 1730´s – and are often likened to the surface of the moon.
Valley of 1000 Palms
The north of the island provides a green and lush antidote to the arid volcanic south. And nowhere is this contrast more pronounced than in the Valley of 1000 Palms. Where for centuries locals have been planting one palm tree forevery new born girl and two for every boy.
Green Lagoon
The green lagoon at El Golfo is another of Lanzarote´s many volcanic wonders. Created by an interaction between the mineral deposits from the eruptions and the salt water of the sea. Resulting in an emerald green lagoon set in a black sand beach. So striking is the scenery here that El Golfo has been used by numerous sci-fi film crews, such as the makers of One Million Years BC.
Mirador del Rio
The Mirador del Rio in the north of the island provides visitors with breathtaking views down to the neighbouring island of La Graciosa. Said to be the real life setting for Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel Treasure Island. Converted from a naval gun battery by the ubiquitous Manrique, the Mirador is a real natural high.
Cactus Garden
Get up close and personal with the plant worlds spiniest species. The Cactus Garden in Guatiza boasts over 1400 different types of cacti – all set within an amphitheatre forged from a former quarry. In a part of the island that was once the heart of Lanzarote´s cochineal industry.
Probably Cesar Manrique´s most impressive creation the Jameos del Agua was transformed from a collapsed lava tube into an atmospheric underground auditorium and nightclub. Featuring great gardens, a lagoon and a swimming pool reserved for the sole use of the King of Spain.
La Geria Wine Region
The volcanic eruptions of the 1730´s have had a profound impact upon many aspects of island life. Not least viniculture. Since farmers discovered that small volcanic chippings, called picon, could be used to successfully mulch their vines. A discovery of some significance on an island devoid of any natural water sources.
Cesar Manrique Foundation
The former home and studio of the celebrated artist is now home to the Cesar Manrique Foundation. And was built into five underground volcanic bubbles. An architectural feat that never fails to blow visitors away.
Teguise
The former island capital of Teguise is a treasure trove of colonial architecture and boasts the oldest building in the Canary Islands – the Palacio Marques, which was constructed in the 1450´s.
Caleta de Famara
On an island that boats over ninety beaches the incredible 8km long stretch of sand at Famara really stands out. This raw, natural beach is flanked at one end by the 500 metre high Famara massif range of cliffs. Whilst the small island of La Graciosa is situated a few miles off shore. Providing a picturesque backdrop for sunbathers and surfers alike.
If you are interested in a holiday to Lanzarote or a flight call Global Holidays on 0845 2994450
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