So you´ve booked one of our holiday villas in Playa Blanca and you´re keen to find out what Lanzarote has to offer. The answer is loads – as unlike many other holiday destinations the island boasts a host of top attractions. Encompassing surreal scenery, natural wonders and the incredible creations of the local artist César Manrique.
Timanfaya Volcano Park
Drive away from the coast and into the interior and it soon becomes obvious that Lanzarote is an island like no other. It was rocked by eruptions some 250 years ago which completely altered the topography and terrain. Applying a thick crust of lava to around one quarter of Lanzarote´s total land surface.
This has resulted in a landscape that looks like the surface of some strange planet in outer space. All red and orange burnt out volcanoes and twisted lava shapes. The sheer scale of the volcano park surprises many visitors and the destructive power of Mother Nature on show here rarely fails to awe. If you visit just one attraction on your holiday here make sure it’s the Fire Mountains.
Valley of 1000 Palms
After the barren aridity of the volcano park it’s best to head north to take in some greenery. The Valley of 1000 Palms is just the spot for this – because as the name suggests it is resplendent with Canarian palm trees. Thanks to villagers in nearby Haria who plant a palm for every new born baby.
Saturdays are a good time to visit the valley as Haria plays host to a cool little market in the mornings. Where you can buy fresh local produce, goats cheese, wines and much more besides.
Mirador del Rio
Head from here to the northen tip of the island – and drink in the fantastic views of La Graciosa from the Mirador del Rio. This lofty lookout point is one of Cesar Manrique´s many creations on the island. And overlooks the small neighbouring island of La Graciosa.
Teguise
Travel back in time and explore the former island capital of Teguise. This is the oldest Spanish settlement in the Canaries and as a result is home to a great selection of historic buildings and colonial architecture,.
Visit on a Sunday and the quiet town comes to life as Lanzarote´s largest weekly market takes over the streets.
César Manrique Foundation
Conclude a morning’s shopping at the market with a visit to Manrique´s former home, located just down the road in Tahiche. It was partially built over five empty chambers in the lava flow. An incredible feat of architecture. And now houses most of Manrique´s paintings. A well as sketches and sculptures.
