Things To Do In Lanzarote
Holidaymakers staying in hotels or villas in Lanzarote may be surprised to find out how much there is to do, apart from lazing next to the pool. As for a small island, the most easterly Canary Island has plenty to tempt visitors away from their accommodation.
Cultural Attractions
Lanzarote boasts seven main cultural attractions, which range from the extraordinary volcanic landscapes to be found in the Timanfaya National Park to a look out post – the Mirador del Rio – which hovers on the edge of a cliff.
All of these attractions were designed by island born artist and architect, César Manrique, who wanted to create sites of interest for tourists to visit without spoiling the island’s natural beauty. So the lava tunnels made by Monte Corona in the north were turned into the Cueva de los Verdes and the spectacular Jameos del Agua, which is a combination of nightclub, auditorium, restaurant, gardens and swimming pool. Likewise the Jardin del Cactus, in Guatiza, is an excellent showcase for the huge variety of spiny plants to be found. The other centres include a monument to farming – Monumento al Campesino – and an art museum in a former castle – the Museo International de Arte Contemporaneo.
Sea Sports
For those who like to get wet, there is a huge range of sea-based activities to get involved in. From surfing to kayaking, sailing to scuba-diving, visitors who enjoy the wind and waves will find plenty to choose from. Surfing is particularly good at both Famara on the north coast and Costa Teguise, one of the tourist resorts. The waters surrounding the island are particularly interesting for divers, as the volcanic rock formations have created a unique environment in which to see the varied sea-life. For the less energetic, a day’s cruising on a catamaran provides an enjoyable combination of sightseeing and relaxation. Thanks to the great weather in Lanzarote this sort of activity can be enjoyed all year round.
Land Based Fun
The island’s benign climate also makes a round of golf a year round option, at either of the courses at Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise. Cycling is a popular past-time, especially in and around all three of the resorts, as the terrain is flatter here than the rest of the island. Whilst hill-walking tempts many to put on their walking shoes and see Lanzarote’s interior from a different perspective.
Parks and Rides
With several parks featuring animals, there are several ways to enjoy the flora and fauna. Guinate Tropical Park in the north is home to a multitude of bird species, whereas Rancho Texas Park has a variety of exotic creatures, such as alligators and seals. Horse and camel riding are on offer at Lanzarote a Caballo, with camels also featuring in the Timanfaya National Park.
