Lanzarote has long been a hot favourite with British tourists ever since tourism first took off here back in the 1970´s.  Today the island welcomes about 1.6 million visitors per year with about 60% of them flying in from airports across the UK. The island is also very popular with German, Irish and Spanish tourists too.  Not least as accommodation here is much cheaper than in other winter sun destinations such as the Caribbean.  With Lanzarote villas and hotels starting from as little as €450 per week.

There are plenty of ways to book your accommodation online these days too thanks to the internet and a host of villa rental sites to choose from.  www.holidayvillasinlanzarote.co.uk offers over 250 properties to rent across the island, ranging from a yak herders yurt (located on an eco finca in Arrieta) through to more conventional options such as luxury villas in the main resorts.

Wherever tourists choose to stay they will find that Lanzarote boasts loads of things to do and see.  The island is famed for its barren volcanic landscape, forged by the fires of hundreds of volcanoes which erupted during a six year spell in the 1730´s.  Leaving about a quarter of the island looking like it has been drowned in a sea of lava.  These eruptions were so recent in geological terms that this is probably the most pristine volcanic terrain on the planet and really does look like another world altogether.

A local artist called Cesar Manrique married these landscapes with his own artistry to create a series of amazing visitor attractions around Lanzarote, such as the Jameos del Agua and his own home and studio in Tahiche, now the Cesar Manrique Foundation.  Both of which were built on bubbles in the lava flow.  Manrique also oversaw the development of the Mirador del Rio which grants visitors amazing views of the neighbouring island of La Graciosa.

During the winter months the temperatures on Lanzarote usually reach at least 22 degrees, making it plenty warm enough to enjoy a day on the beach or lounging by the pool should you tire of sightseeing.  And there are lots of great restaurants to explore come nightfall, especially in and around the main holiday resorts.

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Much like the Red Sea resorts Lanzarote enjoys great weather all year round and welcomes millions of tourists from across Northern Europe as a result.  Many of them flying in from the UK.  Thanks to the introduction of cheap flights to Lanzarote from budget carriers such as easyJet and Ryanair.

Around half of all British visitors book villas in Lanzarote rather than hotels.  As the trend for private self catering accommodation on the island continues to grow apace.  Many of the best villas are located in and around the two main resorts of Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen.  Which can both be found on the islands tranquil south east coast.

The quality of villa accommodation on the island is high, especially in Puerto del Carmen.  Where many of the properties occupy a large amount of land and boast their own private swimming pools.  Puerto del Carmen also enjoys the advantage of being close to the sole island airport at Arrecife, which is just a ten minute drive away.

Playa Blanca is a little further by car, around half an hour.  But it’s well worth the effort as this fast growing resort is a real jewel.  There are some splendid beaches here as well as loads for visitors to do and see.  Not least as the island’s main attraction of the Timanfaya National Park is right on the doorstep.  Car hire in Lanzarote is cheap so it’s well worth getting out and taking in the key sights such as this.

During the course of last year around 1.4 million tourists enjoyed a break on Lanzarote and that figure is expected to rise this year by around 10%.  Thanks in part to the crisis in the Middle East but also as a result of the recovery in the economies of countries such as the UK and Germany, Lanzarote’s two main tourist markets.

Already this year hotels have reported increased occupancy levels of around 8%, whilst many local villa companies are also reporting an upsurge in bookings for their rental properties.

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Lanzarote is the fourth largest of these islands and can be found just 80 miles away from the West African coastline of Morocco.  With a population of around 140,000 residents that is augmented very month by about 100,000 tourist visitors – the majority of them from the UK.  British guests increasingly opt for rental accommodation over hotels – and as a result demand for good quality Lanzarote holiday villas for rent has really risen over the last five years.  In tandem with advances in internet coverage in the UK which enables tourist to book both their own accommodation and flights online without recourse to a travel agent.

During the winter months the bulk of these visitors will beheading for the two more southerly resorts on Lanzarote – Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca.  Which is also where the bulk of the best villa accommodation can be found, along with the best of the weather.

Puerto del Carmen is just a short transfer from the airport at Arrecife and is the largest and oldest resort on the island.  It is dived into the New Town and Old Town zones – although in truth neither of these date back much more than fifty years.  With the Old Town home to most of the best villas in Puerto del Carmen.  Whilst the New town is more the preserve of apartment complexes and hotels.  There are plenty of fabulous beaches in Puerto del Carmen for tourists to enjoy, as well as an abundance of bars, restaurants and clubs.  Making this the spot to head for if you fancy a livelier winter break.

Playa Blanca is located further to the south than Puerto del Carmen and is a much newer resort. Having evolved from its former incarnation as a fishing village as recently as the 1980´s.  Holiday villas in Playa Blanca tend to be a little cheaper to rent than in Puerto del Carmen, reflecting the fact that there are simply more of these properties here for tourists to select from.

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Lanzarote remains hot all year round as it is located close to the tropic of cancer and the coast of Africa.  As a result the mercury here rarely falls below 20 degrees and the sun shines all year round.  Making this hot little island a real favourite with sun seekers from cross Europe. 

The UK is Lanzarote´s biggest source of visitors and there are lots of cheap flights to Lanzarote available online via sites such as Skyscanner and Netflights.  Outside of peak seasons it is possible top pick up returns from as little as €100.  Which is less than it costs to take a train from London to Manchester on most days of the week!

Accommodation on the island is also very good value.  With apartments and villas in Lanzarote available from as little as €180 per week.  Rising to €1000 per week for luxury villa properties with multiple bedrooms and private heated swimming pools.  There are also over 200 hotels on the island to choose from – with no less than six five star options for those in search of some serious pampering.

The bulk of this accommodation can be found in the two main resorts on the island, which are Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca.  Tourists can also opt for the resort of Costa Teguise in the north – but the weather here is not as reliable as it down south during the winter months.  And there are also lots of chic rural hotels in the countryside.

Arguably the main reason for visiting Lanzarote is to enjoy the wonderful weather and there are loads of beaches where tourists can soak up the sun here, closet to 100 in fact.  The north of the island boasts the huge bay at Famara but this is more the preserve of surfers during the winter months.  So head instead for the coves and bay of Papagayo in the south.  A set of all natural beaches with great golden sands and wonderful views to the island of Fuerteventura.

Lanzarote is also home to some spectacular volcanic scenery that was all created by eruptions around 300 years ago.  This isn’t a huge time lapse in terms of volcanic activity and as a result erosion has had little chance to alter the pristine lava fields.  Which are so dramatic in appearance that they have been used as backdrop for numerous science fiction films over the years.

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Lanzarote is a semi tropical island located in the Atlantic off the coast of Africa.  And along with the other six islands in the group, such as Tenerife, attracts a collective annual influx of almost ten million arrivals.  Making this one of the most popular holiday regions in all of Spain.

Of all of the Canaries Lanzarote is located closest to the African coast and has a very dry climate with little rainfall. The ideal conditions for a holiday destination.  But fortunately Lanzarote also offers much more than just sunshine alone, with loads to do and see here for tourists.  And with flights to Lanzarote  from the UK costing as little as €100 it´s child’s play to get there too.

Breathtaking Beaches

There are close to 100 beaches on Lanzarote and they are all mostly made of golden sand.  Black sand beaches are common on the other islands, but not here.  Which will please traditional beach lovers.  The best can be found at Famara, Arrieta and Papagayo.  Whilst each resort also boasts some superb stretches of sand too.

Natural Wonders

Lanzarote is home to a heap of natural beauty spots.  Such as the Valley of 1000 Palms and the Green Lagoon.  But the real star attraction is a beauty of a more unconventional stripe – as the islands main attraction are the twisted lava fields of the Timanfaya Volcano Park.  Created centuries ago by mega-eruptions which lasted for over six years.

The Timanfaya Volcano Park is open to the public seven days a week.  So book a Lanzarote hire car and head for the hills!

Cesar´s Empire

The name Cesar Manrique is virtually synonomous with Lanzarote.  And visitors will soon find out that it is impossible to tour the island without bumping into his work. As it adorns roundabouts and public spaces.  Whilst he also created the seven main tourist attractions on Lanzarote.

Amongst the most impressive are the Jameos del Agua and the Cactus Garden, which is home to one of the largest collections of cacti in the world.

Holidays in Lanzarote can be enjoyed at any time of the year.  So if you´re planning a stay-cation this summer you can also book a winter break here instead.

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Despite this though Lanzarote is in fact a Spanish posession having been first conquered as long ago as the early 1400´s.  And today the islands main business is tourism, with Lanzarote welcoming over 1.3 million tourist arrivals every year.

The bulk of these guests are heading for Puerto del Carmen – which is located just a short ten minute drive form the airport and which is where the bulk of the best accommodation can also be found.  Along with some superb blue flag beaches, an abundance of restaurants and lots of other things to do and see.

Given its size there are surprisingly few hotels in the resort with the majority of visitors staying in self catering accommodation instead.  The best villas in Puerto del Carmen are located in areas such as Los Mojones and Risco Prieto, which are both situated close to the Old Town harbour.  As well as in more outlying areas such as Los Pocillos and Matagorda.  Holiday apartments in Puerto del Carmen are also popular with travellers taking a break on a budget.  And there are hundreds of complexes in Puerto del Carmen that cater to this market.

The resort is basically split into two halves, the Old Town and the New Town.  The Old Town revolves around the harbour, from where local fishermen used to set sail daily.  But now visitors are more likely to find excursion craft here than fishing vessels.  Whilst the harbour provides an atmospheric backdrop for the many outdoor restuarants located here.

The New Town was only developed ten or so years after the Old Town so isn’t really that much more novel.  And this is where tourists will find the best beaches, such as Playa Grande, which as the name suggest is a huge and wide beach that is absolutely ideal for families.  As there are decent facilities here whilst the sea is also very calm, making bathing that much safer.

Over the last year Puerto del Carmen has received a huge inward investment from the local tourist board and over €16 million has been spent on improving the main seafront promenade and on creating a new marina.  So there really has never been a better time to visit this bustling resort.

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Lanzarote is a year round holiday destination, thanks to the fact that the island is located off the coast of Africa.  And as a result prices here aren’t hiked up during the summer months as is the case in the Balearics and along the Costas.  So ensuring that Lanzarote villas and apartments represent great value for money for anyone seeking to swap the uncertainty of the British summer for sure-fire sunshine and temperatures in the high 20´s.

British holidaymakers have been flocking to the fourth largest Canary Island ever since package holidays first took off here in the 1970s.  And today many arrivals from the UK choose to book their own accommodation direct online with the owners.  So cutting tour operators and travel companies out of the equation altogether.  Attracted by great weather, high standards of accommodation and a plethora of wonderful beaches.

Villas in Playa Blanca are perennially popular, as this fast growing resort located at the southern end of the island enjoys some of the best weather – whilst also boasting an incredible array of beaches.  Most notably the all natural set of coves at Papagayo, which are located just fifteen minutes walk from the resort centre.

Puerto del Carmen remains the engine room of the island’s tourist industry though and there are loads of good value options here for anyone looking for a place to stay.  The resort is home to a large number of apartment complexes offering studio accommodation from as little as €180 per week.  Whilst there are many excellent villas in Puerto del Carmen for tourists to choose from too.  Particularly in and around the Los Mojones and Risco Prieto areas.

Wherever visitors choose to stay they will find that this fascnating island offers much more than just sunshine and beaches alone.  There are seven centres of culture and tourism to visit, all created by the ubiquitous artist César Manrique, who was born in the island capital of Arrecife in 1919.  As well as a host of anural wonders such as the Timanfaya Volcano Park, the Valley of 1000 Palms and the green lagoon at El Golfo.

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Tourists have been enjoying holidays in Lanzarote for over forty years – ever since the island’s first hotel, the Los Fariones, opened its doors in the late 1960´s.  But the small fishing village of Playa Blanca (named after the white beach which still lies at its heart) remained untouched by tourism for decades.  Whilst resort rivals sprung up to the north.

In part this can be contributed to the fact that the island is subject to strict planning laws which carefully control development on Lanzarote.  But by the late 1980´s the villages twin attributes of great beaches and fantastic weather could be ignored by developers no longer and construction on a series of hotels and luxury villas continued.  Creating the bustling resort of Playa Blanca today.

Seen from above by tourists as they arrive by air Playa Blanca is made up of three small bays set within one much larger cove.  A topography that grants the resort plenty of protection form the Trade Winds that buffet the rest of the island from March through until August.  With each bay boasting an attractive beach at its core.

But the real sandy star is located around fifteen minutes walk from the centre of Playa Blanca.  As the set of coves at Papagayo (or parrot in Spanish) are completely natural and unspoiled and are a real beach lover’s paradise.  With visitors able to hop between different beaches with ease. 

Accommodation in the resort is of high standard – with those seeking a self catering break able to choose from a wide selection of apartments and villas in Playa Blanca.  At reasonable prices too – with a standard two bedroom villa with pool costing from around €400 per week.

There are also plenty of good quality Playa Blanca hotels to choose from too.  The most luxurious of which is the five star Gran Melia Volcan, which is located close to the exciting Rubicon Marina Development.  Home to a number of upmarket shops and Lanzarote´s branch of the famous Café del Mar.

Should tourists be able to tear themselves away from the beaches or the pool the islands number one tourist attraction, the Timanfaya National Park, is also just a short ten minute drive away.

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Lanzarote is the fourth largest of these islands and home to three main holiday destinations, the fastest growing of which is Playa Blanca which is located right at the southern tip of the island.  Just across the Bocaina Straits from near neighbour Fuerteventura.

Until the 1980´s Playa Blanca (or white beach in Spanish) really was the sort of quaint little fishing village that travel brochure writers love to eulogise.  But over the last decade it has rapidly expanded and is now the fastest growing resort on Lanzarote. 

Its rise in popularity can largely be attributed to climate – as Playa Blanca tends to enjoy the best weather in Lanzarote.  Especially during the winter months when more northerly resorts such as Costa Teguise can be shrouded in cloud and a good few degrees cooler.  Despite only being 40km or so away.

Playa Blanca´s other important natural attribute are the resorts great beaches – a major plus point for most holidaymakers.  As within the town itself tourists can enjoy three superb stretches of sand at Playa Flamingo, Playa Dorada and Playa Blanca (the small central beach from which the resort takes its name).

The real jewel in the crow though are the bays and coves of nearby Papagayo – widely regarded as one of the best beach spots in the whole of the Canaries.  Where visitors can enjoy totally unspoiled sands and great views across to Fuerteventura.

There’s a wide assortment of accommodation options for tourists too.  With a good selection of hotels in Playa Blanca available – most of which enjoy a frontline position and immediate access to the seafront promenade that unites the resort.

Those how prefer self catering accommodation will find there are also hundreds of apartments and villas in Playa Blanca available for rent.  At very reasonable rates too – especially by comparison with other Spanish holiday island destinations such as the Balearics.

Playa Blanca is also just a short drive away from Lanzarote´s hottest tourist attraction, the Timanfaya National Park – or Montañas del Fuego.  Home to hundreds of now dormant volcanoes and fields of twisted lava.  All created by huge eruptions in the 18th century.  And an absolute must see for any visitor to the island.

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Lanzarote is one of the seven Spanish owned Canary Islands and is located on the same line of longitude as parts of Mexico and Florida.  Just four hours flying time from the UK.  Making it one of the most popular winter sun destinations with British tourists.

This popularity has been boosted further recently by the creation of new flights to Lanzarote from leading low cost operators such as Ryanair.  Who started running 30 plus new services to the island in October, with prices starting from as little as £9.99 one way.

Holiday accommodation in Lanzarote is also very reasonably priced.  With apartments available from as little as £160 per week.  And holiday villas in Lanzarote with private pools priced from £350 for a weeks stay.

The bulk of the best accommodation is located in the two main resorts of Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca.  Both of which make an ideal base for a relaxing sunshine break.

Puerto del Carmen is in fact the oldest resort on Lanzarote – as well as the most popular.  Having started life forty odd years ago as a small fishing village known locally as La Tiñosa.  Today the fishing boats in the Old Town harbour have largely been replaced by excursion craft – whilst the village has become a town.  Extending for around 9km in the direction of the islands airport at Arrecife.

Tourist authoritires have recently invested over €16 million on improvements to the resort.  Which has been spent on improving the sea front promenade and creating a new marina.  And there´s a good selection of villas in Puerto del Carmen for rent in areas such as Risco Prieto and Los Mojones. So there’re never been a better time to visit.

Playa Blanca is located at the southern foot of the island – and is the fastest growing resort on Lanzarote.  Boasting breathtaking beaches and the best microclimate on the island.

Like Puerto del Carmen Playa Blanca started life as a small fishing village before evolving into a bustling resort.  And is also the gateway to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura.  Which means that tourists can visit not one but two Canary Islands whilst enjoying their holidays in Lanzarote.

Playa Blanca is also an ideal location for anyone planning to visit Lanzarote´s leading tourist attraction. The awe inspiring Timanfaya National Park.  Home to hundreds of now dormant volcanoes and some of the most surreal scenery in the world.

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Mallorca’s charms also extend to historic cities such as the capital La Palma and a whole raft of fascinating visitor attractions.  Whilst accommodation standards on the island are also very high.  With an enormous range of hotels and holiday villas in Mallorca available for visitors to select from.

Whilst famous visitors such as Robert Graves and Frederic Chopin have been gracing the island for century’s modern tourism only really started to take off here during the 1950´s.  Evolving around nascent resorts such as Magalluf – which has since become something of a byword for the worst excesses of tourist over development.

But that is now a distant memory and there are plenty of attractive options around the island for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the larger resorts.  Especially in the more picturesque north of the island in and around the old town of Pollensa and Alcudia.

Pollensa started life as a Roman settlement in the 5th century – before emerging to become one of the most attractive destinations on the island today.  Boasting pretty squares, cobbled streets and plenty of upmarket bars, shops and restaurants.  All located within easy reach of the breathtaking beaches of the North coast.

Puerto Pollensa just 8km or so away was developed as the sister coastal resort to Pollensa and is now well established as a popular destination. Benefiting from the hugely atmospheric backdrop of the Tramantura Mountains which really dominate this part of the island.

Puerto Pollensa is arrayed around a great main beach and marina area and offers a really relaxing atmosphere.  With plenty of good quality restaurants for visitors to enjoy.  The bulk of which can be found along the resorts main seafront promenade.

A little further along the coast lies the delightful resort of Can Picafort – which was once just a small and sleepy little fishing village.  It offers great beaches and is now one of the most popular holiday hot spots in this part of the island.

Mallorca is just a two and half hour plane journey from the UK and flights to the island are available with all of the leading low cost operators from all major UK airports.

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Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca is the number one choice for anyone planning a winter holiday in Lanzarote.  As this bustling destination at the southern end of the island boasts the most reliable weather at that time of year.  Along with some spectacular beaches.

Playa Blanca was in fact developed some time after the other resorts to the north.  But its location and climate have quickly helped to establish it as the second busiest holiday destination on Lanzarote – and rightly so.

There are a host of good value four star hotels arrayed along the shoreline.  Along with an excellent selection of holiday villas in Playa Blanca for those who prefer self catering accommodation.

Puerto del Carmen
Puerto del Carmen is still the big daddy of Lanzarote´s tourist industry.  The spot where modern package holidays first took off and still the most popular destination on the island.

Carmen (as it is known locally) has also recently enjoyed a major €16 million refurbishment.  With major improvements made to the insfrastructure and overall tourist offering.  Making it an ideal time to visit.

There are an abundance of hotels and holiday villas in Puerto del Carmen for visitors to choose from.  As well as a wide selection of good quality apartments. With prices starting from as little as €160 per week.

Costa Teguise
Costa Teguise is an entirely man made resort – developed during the 1980´s as an upmarket alternative to Puerto del Carmen along the coastline.  Boasting impressive hotels such as the five star Gran Melia Salinas and an abundance of good value apartment complexes.

Costa Teguise is best enjoyed outside of the winter months – as the north of the island can at times become cloudy and overcast.  However it is an ideal choice for anyone more interested in visiting Lanzarote´s key visitor attractions.  As sights such as the Jameos del Agua and the Cactus Garden are within a fifteen minute drive.

Lanzarote also has an unofficial fourth resort – in the form of Puerto Calero.  Also known locally as Millionaires Marina.  There’s a small selection of holiday villas in Puerto Calero available for rent for anyone keen to experience a break in this luxurious environment.  Whilst good quality rental accommodation is also available across the countryside.

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Lanzarote is home to three main tourist resorts.  But Puerto del Carmen is the spot where modern holidays first really took off on Lanzarote.  Transforming a small fishing village formerly called La Tiñosa into the islands number one holiday destination.

Much of Puerto del Carmen’s success can be attributed to the fact the resort enjoys a great microclimate.  As it is relatively well sheltered from the Trade Winds that buffet the island during the Spring months.  Whilst also boasting some excellent (albeit man made) beaches.  Such as the main section of sand – Playa Cucharas.  And other smaller spots such as Playa Chica.

Over the last year local tourist authorities have also been pouring investment money into Puerto del Carmen.  With around €16 million spent to date on a new marina in the Old Town harbour area and the pedestrianisation of the main seafront promenade – the Avenida de las Playas.  Moves which are designed to help maintain the resorts competiveness in the face of growing competition from newer destinations around the world.

A well as great beaches visitors will also find some excellent accommodation choices.  There are two main hotels in Puerto del Carmen – in the form of the San Antonio and the Los Fariones.  Which both enjoy enviable sea front locations.  Whilst there’s also plenty of private villas in Puerto del Carmen available for rent.  Especially in and around the Old Town harbour area.

This is also the spot where tourists can jump onto a boat for an excursion along the shoreline or across to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura.  And the harbour area is also an ideal place come nightfall – as it is home to the largest selection of good quality restaurants.

A wide array of water sports such as jet skiing and diving are available at the smaller breach of Playa Chica.  Whilst a new golf course – only the second on the island – has recently opened on the outskirts of town.

There’s never been a better time to visit Puerto del Carmen as this winter flights to Lanzarote are available with low cost carriers such as Ryanair from as littlie as £9.99 return.
 

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Lanzarote has plenty to recommend it as an ideal winter sun destination.  Boasting temperatures that touch 20 Celsius plus even during the depths of December and a very manageable flight time of just four hours.  Along with nearly 100 great beaches and some excellent accommodation. Increased competition on the route between Ryanair and easyJet also means that for the first time genuine low cost flights to the island are now more widely available. 

Winter sun seekers can expect to enjoy plenty of days on the beach or by the pool.  Although nighttimes temperatures can cool quickly – think desert climate here, as the outer fringes of the Sahara are only 100 miles or so away.  Yet despite the exotic location the island has all the familiar cuisine and customs of a Spanish holiday destination and is also part of the EU.  So eliminating any visa hassles.

During the winter months it’s best to follow the swallows and head south.  To the popular resort of Playa Blanca – home to a massive range of Lanzarote holiday villas and hotels.  Such as the sumptuous five star Gran Melia Volcan – which is located close to the luxurious Rubicon Marina and which boasts a replica volcano as it’s entrance hall.

This slightly kitsch homage to Lanzarote´s best know tourist attraction of the Fire Mountains at nearby Timanafya actually works quite well.  And the hotel itself offers excellent guest facilities and high standards of service.

In the unlikely event of bad weather Lanzarote offers a lot for visitors to do and see.  Aside from beaches and the awe inspiring volcanic region there´s loads of picturesque towns and villages to explore.  Such as Yaiza – twice voted the prettiest village in Spain.  And Haria – located in the north in the verdant folds of the Valley of 1000 Palms.

Those in search of a spot of culture will also love the creations of the local artist César Manrique.  Who developed loads of unique visitor attractions such as the Jameos del Agua and the Mirador del Rio.

Car hire in Lanzarote is very affordable and the roads are quiet outside of the main resorts.  Making it easy to get out and explore this unique volcanic island.

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Many will be spending their holidays in Lanzarote, where there is plenty to keep the children amused.  Whilst the clement climate makes this popular island an ideal family destination at any time of the year.

As well as plenty of child friendly Lanzarote accommodation options and wonderful safe beaches the island also boasts plenty of attractions and days out that should keep even the choosiest of children happy.

Undersea Adventures
The Yellow Submarine based in Puerto Calero is always a big hit with kids – as well as parents.  As this enormous and well appointed $3.2 million craft has been treating families to undersea voyages of exploration for over ten years.

Diving to 60 metres the sub is equipped with huge viewing portholes as well as TV monitors set onto the back of each headset.  Which ensures that nobody misses any of the underwater action outside.  As rays, sharks and schools of tropical fish flit past the windows.

The Yellow Submarine dives every day five times per day and costs €52 for adults and €30 for kids.

Moon Landings
The Timanfaya National Park is home to over 300 volcanoes (all now fortunately dormant) and a sea of prettified lava.  All created around 260 years ago by a massive series of eruptions.

Kids love exploring the Park and viewing the destructive power of nature up close.  As well as the demonstrations staged by wardens at the visitors centre.  Where they pour water into bore holes – only for it to be expulsed seconds later as a jet of steam.  Testifying to the geothermal heat still present just beneath the surface.  Kids can also watch as chefs barbecue chicken and meat on huge grills.  Using the heat from below to cook the food.

The Timanfaya National Park is Lanzarote´s best loved tourist attraction.  It is open seven days a week from 10.00 to 18.00.  Admission costs €8 per adult and €4 per child. 

Animal Magic
A cuddlier alternative to these activities can be fund at the Guinate Tropical Park.  Where children can see a whole host of furry mammals such as meerkats and lemurs.  Along with a profusion of colourful bird life – encompassing everything from penguins through to macaws.

Bird shows are staged throughout the day And there’s over 45,000 square metres of park to explore.  Open daily from 10.00 to 17.00, admission costs €14 for adults and €5 for children.

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The Canary Islands are located just four hours flying time from the UK and are the closest genuine winter sun destination to home.  Enjoying good weather all year round thanks to their location just off the west African coast of Morocco.  On the same line of latitude as the Bahamas.

Yet unlike the Caribbean the Canaries offer affordable winter breaks for all.  For example on the most easterly island of Lanzarote it is possible to build your own holiday break this winter from as little as a couple of hundred pounds per person.

For the first time this winter the low cost airline Ryanair will be flying to the island.  Having created 15 new services to Lanzarote from all major UK airports.  And with prices starting from as little as £100 return.  Whilst other operators such as easyJet, Monarch and Thomas Cook all offer some competitive flight deals too.

Self catering holidays usually offer the best value for groups of more than two people as obviously the cost of the apartment or villa can then be divided up between each member of the party. 

Weekly rental rates for villas in Lanzarote start from £350 per week.  Which will secure a two bedroom property, with private pool, in one of the main resorts such as Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen.  With Playa Blanca offering the best prospects of good weather thanks to its location right at the southern end of the island.

This is the newest resort on Lanzarote – with modern facilities and a great range of hotel accommodation too, for those who’d rather let someone else take care of the catering and bed making.

Playa Blanca has rapidly emerged to become the second most popular holiday destination on Lanzarote.  The key to its success being the proliferation of beautiful beaches here.  Such as Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo.  As well as the bays and coves of nearby Papagayo.  Which is widely regarded as the best beach on the island.

The entire resort is united by a delightful seafront promenade which is the place to head for come nightfall.  As locals and tourists alike enjoy a seafront stroll before selecting their favoured restaurant for the evening.

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After Catalonia the archipelago is the second most visited region in Spain.  Welcoming close to ten million guests last year alone.  Yet these seven islands are by no means all birds of a feather.  As each enjoys it’s own unique identity and character.

Lanzarote is the most easterly of the islands and is hugely popular with tourists from the UK, Eire and Germany.  With over 1.5 million foreign visitors booking Lanzarote holidays during the course of 2008.

The island is best known for its unique volcanic scenery – forged by a series of eruptions in the 18th and 19th century.  As well as the work of a highly creative local artist called César Manrique.  Who successfully campaigned against over development on Lanzarote.  Resulting in an outright ban on ad hoardings and high rise buildings.

Getting There
Leading low cost airline Ryanair has just switched their focus to the Canaries and will be running 15 new services to the island this winter.  So helping to reduce the cost of flights to Lanzarote as competition on these routes hots up. easyJet. Thomas Cook and Monarch all offer reasonably priced returns too – with departures in November starting at around £100 return.

Places To Stay
It’s possible to book all types of accommodation – ranging from basic studio apartments through to chic rural hotel breaks.  Self catering accommodation has also grown in popularity over the last five years – in tandem with the growth of internet usage.  And now many visitors prefer to book their own Lanzarote villas and apartments online.

Holiday villas in Playa Blanca are the best bet during the winter months – as this is the southern most resort on the island, with the best microclimate. 

Getting Around
Car hire in Lanzarote is cheap and affordable – with rates starting from as little as €13 per day.  Whilst petrol is also, much better value than in the UK, at around 0.70 centimos per litre.

The island is very small – measuring around 58km by 38km – so it’s very easy to tour and take in all of the key sites.  Which encompass not only the Timanfaya Volcano Park but also the various creations of César Manrique.  Who worked with Lanzarote´s volcanic terrain to create some unique visitor attractions around the island.

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There are three main holiday resorts on Lanzarote; Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca.  Each boasting its own unique character and identity.

Costa Teguise is located towards the north of the island, just past Lanzarote´s capital city of Arrecife and around fifteen minutes transfer time from the airport. The resort is entirely man made and was developed during the 1970’s under the direction of the local artist César Manrique. 

Costa Teguise is anchored by the Gran Melia Salinas hotel, still widely regarded as one of the best five star luxury establishments on the island.  And is the ideal choice for anyone who likes to combine sunbathing with sightseeing.  As most of Lanzarote´s key attractions – such as the Jameos del Agua and the César Manrique Foundation – are within a fifteen minute drive.

Puerto del Carmen is the oldest resort on Lanzarote.  Formerly a fishing village called La Tiñosa this is now the most bustling destination on the island.  Puerto del Carmen is home to the highest concentration of holiday complexes – making it the ideal choice for anyone seeking Lanzarote holiday apartments.

The resort has also recently undergone something of a facelift – and the beachfront Avenida del las Playas has now been substantially remodelled.  Whilst the Old Town Harbour area is being transformed into a marina.

Playa Blanca is located right at the southern tip of Lanzarote and as a result tends to enjoy the best weather on the island.  Located just accords the Bocaina Straits from the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura, Playa Blanca also boasts some of the best beaches on Lanzarote, such as the coves at nearby Papagayo.  Along with an excellent selection of four star hotels.

Villas in Playa Blanca have also grown substantially in popularity over the last decade, thanks to the growth of the internet.  Which has made sourcing and booking holidays direct online much easier for travellers.  And Playa Blanca is located in close proximity to Lanzarote´s leading tourist attraction – the awe inspiring Timanfaya Volcano Park.  Which is just a ten minute drive from the resort.

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Getting There
Puerto del Carmen is located just ten minutes drive from the sole airport on the island at Arrecife.  There is no shuttle or public bus service between the airport and the resort so independent travellers have to take a taxi.  Which costs around €10.

Places To Stay
The growth of the internet as a holiday search tool has helped to fuel demand for Lanzarote villas and apartments.  As many tourists now prefer to build their own holiday online.

The best selection of villas in Puerto del Carmen can be found in and around the residential zone of Los Mojones.  Which is located around five minutes walk from the Old Town area of Puerto del Carmen.  Where the harbour is currently being transformed into a luxury marina.

There are also two main hotels in Puerto del Carmen.  The Los Fariones, which is located right in the heart of the resort.  And the San Antonio, which is positioned on the edge of the resort close to the large beach at Los Pocillos.

Beaches
Playa Grande is the main beach in Puerto del Carmen.  And boasts great facilities such as showers, sun loungers and umbrellas.  Water sports such as jet skiing can be booked here and visitors will find that this is the most popular stretch of sand in the resort.  Especially amongst families with young children.  As it’s very safe to swim here.

For those in search of a little more peace and quiet there’s a little used beach right in front of the Los Fariones Hotel that is ideal for getting away from the crowds.  As well as an attractive beach at Playa Chica which is also ideal for anyone planning to try their hand at scuba diving.

Excursions & Days Out
The Old Town harbour area is the embarkation point for a number of water based tours.  Such as the Princesa Ico, which transports guests across to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura.

The Rancho Texas Wild West Park is located on the outskirts of the resort.  And is great for families.  As children can enjoy a wide range of themed activities whilst also visiting the sizeable zoo. 

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Lanzarote is an ideal summer holiday destination as the island offers guaranteed sunshine and temperatures in excess of 24 Celsius throughout the summer months.  Yet is also cooled by a gentle breeze that is absent on the Spanish mainland.  Where temperatures during July and August can climb to unbearable levels.  Resulting in many residents of the peninsula heading for the Canary Islands in order to escape!

Lanzarote also offers a wealth of attractions for those who want to do more than just laze by the pool and soak up the sun.  As the island boasts a host of natural attractions such as The Timanfaya Volcano Park that should feature on any visitor’s itinerary.

The Volcano Park lies at the hub of a series of eruptions that blasted Lanzarote for six years during the 1730´s.  Leaving behind mile after mile of petrified lava and hundreds of volcanic peaks.  Creating surreal scenery that looks like the Planet Mars.

Elsewhere on the island a local artist called Cesar Manrique has fused this twisted terrain with his own creativity in the construction of a series of unique visitor centres.  Such as the Jameos del Agua, which started life as a 6km long volcanic tunnel – but is now an incredible underground auditorium and concert venue.

A number of hotels in Lanzarote are offering up to 30% off the cost of a weeks stay during June, July and September this year.  With bargains available for those who book before May 30th.  Amongst the deals on offer are a weeks stay at the four star Hotel Beatriz in Matagorda – reduced by 15% from £582.83 per couple to £495.40 for bookings on a half board basis. 

A similar deal is also available at their sister hotel – the four star Beatriz Spa in Costa Teguise.  Where the cost of a double room on a half board basis has been reduced from £567.21 to £482.13 per couple. Deals are also available on a selection of Lanzarote villas, for those who prefer the self catering option. With Whitebeach Holidays, who specialise in holiday villas in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote´s newest resort, offering a weeks break in June for two people for as little as £195.

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