Lanzarote : volcanic island of Manrique

With 3000 hours of sun for a year, the island of Lanzarote is one of the most beautiful of the world. Being part of the archipelago of the Canary, Lanzarote is a very volcanic island. Very populated, the island is recognized by UNESCO since 1993.

Garden of Manrique in Lanzarote

The garden of Manrique : typic vegetation of Lanzarote

Lanzarote is a destination not to be missed if you to to the archipelago of the Canary. The climate is stable and pleasant all year long, so you can go there whenever you want. It is never below 15°C in winter and not more then 30°C in summer. Rain is rare, but the wind can quickly appear.

The north of the island of Lanzarote

Lava field in northern Lanzarote

Lava fields out of sight in the north of Lanzarote

North of Lanzarote is sparsely populated, but has many activities. It is in this area that you will be able to discover who César Manrique was. This artist has done everything to be able to preserve the environment of his native island, Lanzarote. He has won the confidence of politicians but also Conejeros. Many laws set up to preserve the island against massive tourism come from him. More than 20 years after his death, the artist is still present on this island.

Jameos del Agua in Lanzarote - swimming-pool

Jamaeos del Agua in Lanzarote : an idea of Manrique with a cave, a pool, a concert hall and restaurants

Regarding activities in the North of Lanzarote, you will also be able to go to Orzola. This fishermen port will welcome you for a wonderful tasting of fresh fish. From this area, you will also be able to take a boat to go to the island of Graciosa. Beautiful white sandy beaches will be waiting for you, and you will be able to practice scuba diving among many different species of fish. However, be careful because bathing can be dangerous on certain beaches.

Volcano on the island of La Graciosa in Lanzarote

A volcano on the island of La Graciosa – desert landscapes (very different from the island of Lanzarote)

West of Lanzarote

Famara - west of Lanzarote

Famara : a resort for surfers

If you appreciate surfing or sailing, the west of the island of Lanzarote is made for you. This part of the island is very prone to wind and conducive to sports of this type. A small typical fishermen port of Lanzarote is also present. Know that this part of the island offers the most affordable rates. Famara is the best known landmark among surfers.

Volcano on the island of La Graciosa in Lanzarote

The crater of a volcano in Lanzarote

Do not forget to go to the National Park of Timanfaya. The landscape has been shaped by the volcanic eruptions from 1730 to 1736. You will be able to contemplate the lava flows, the craters, etc. Be careful, this dicovery is made by bus, no tourist can set foot on this volcanic place. It is important not to put your life in danger.

Restaurant of Timanfaya - grilled meat on volcanic heat

At the restaurant of the park of Timanfaya, it is possible to eat meat grilled with volcanic heat

East of Lanzarote

Castillo San Gabriel in Arrecife - Lanzarote

The castle of Arrecife - San Gabriel

The capital Arrecife has nothing exceptional compared to the others towns. However, it is here that the house of Manrique is. It is recomended to start your visit by his house, now become its fondation.

Entrance to the Manrique Foundation in Lanzarote

Entrance of the Manrique foundation with a volcano in the background

Manrique has built his house in a totally unusual way. In fact, his house has been made in a natural volcanic bubble. Manrique used to say that nature did not have to adapt to the architecture, but that is was the opposite. Finaly, if Lanzarote managed to preserve its natural environment it is thanks to him !

Interior of the house of Manrique in Lanzarote

Inside of Manrique house with a view on a volcanic lava

Finaly, apart from the old house of Manrique, the east of Lanzarote is less interesting. The nearest seaside resort is Puerto del Carmen, it is mainly frequented by the British.

Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote and its beautiful beach

The beautiful beach of Puerto del Carmen with its alignment of sun loungers and its volcanos

South of Lanzarote

The vineyards in Lanzarote

The vines of Lanzarote around La Geria

In the south of the island, you can discover the vineyards of La Geria. Volcanic stone walls allow to protect the vines. Did you know that the wines of Lanzarote are excellent ? In fact, they are famous throughout the whole world for their good quality. You can find domains offering you a visit and a tasting. In this part of the island, it is also the ideal area to practice hiking.

Green Lagoon in Lanzarote

The green lagoon in the south of Lanzarote with its black sand

You can discover the Laguna Verde, which was a crater whose half has been buried by water at the level of the beach of El Golfo.  The center of El Golfo is very pleasant with many restaurants on the seafront recovered of volcanic lava.

El Golfo seaside with volcanic lava - Lanzarote

The seaside of El Golfo – a lava field

Of course, it is in the south that we find the famous beach of Papagayo in a protected park. It is however recommended to go there early if you want to avoid crowds. The neighboring resort, Playa Blanca, is alas dedicated to massive tourism  ...

Tip of Papagayo in Lanzarote

The tip of Pagagayo in the south of Lanzarote with its volcanos