Lanzarote first came under Spanish rule during the 15^th century – and soon emerged to assume strategic importance in the growing Iberian empire. As galleons carrying Inca silver refuelled here on their way back to the Old World from the new colonies of South America.

The island was famously hit by massive volcanic eruptions during the 18^th century, which left the island’s interior looking like another planet. With 200 km square of Lanzarote´s total land surface now covered by a carpet of lava. Punctuated by the peaks of 300 plus new volcanoes. This region – known as Timanfaya or the Fire Mountains locally – was declared a national park in the 1970´s and is now the most popular tourist attractions on the island.

Exploring Lanzarote

Lanzarote is a small island so it’s easy to tour and explore. There are local bus services but these are infrequent. So visitors are best advised to book car hire in Lanzarote if they plan to go sightseeing.

Accommodation in Lanzarote

Holidaymakers have been enjoying breaks in Lanzarote for decades – so there are plenty of good places to stay around the island.

The best value hotels and villas in Lanzarote can be found in Playa Blanca which is situated right at the southern end of the island. Here four star establishments line the seafront whilst private rental accommodation is available from as little as €350 per week.

Holidays in Lanzarote

All of the largest tour operators such as Thomas Cook and TUI offer holidays in Lanzarote in their brochures. With flights to the island also readily available from airports across the UK.

All inclusive packages account for around 20% of all holidays booked on the island whilst Lanzarote welcomed over 1.3 million visitors during the course of lat year. The majority of them from the UK, Eire and Germany.

Sightseeing

As well as the Timanfaya National Park visitors should also explore the varied creations of César Manrique. Who developed unique attractions such as the Jameos del Agua, Mirador del Rio and the Cactus Garden.

There are also plenty of picture postcard towns and villages to explore, such as historic Teguise. Home to buildings that date back as far as the 15^th century.