Posts Tagged ‘Lanzarote’

Despite their feathery sounding connotations the Canary Islands are in fact named after the Latin for dogs – Canus. And even though they are owned by Spain they are in fact situated very close to the North West coast of Africa. 

And were once thought to be the remnants of the lost continent of Atlantis. 

Today though the islands are all about tourism – which is central to the economy of these seven speaks of Spain.  With the Canaries collectively welcoming around 10 million arrivals very year.  Making them the second most visited region in Spain after Catalonia.  Which of course includes the twin tourist magnets of Barcelona and the beaches of the Costa Brava. 

Lanzarote is located at the eastern end of this chain and accounts for about 1.4 million tourist arrivals by air every ear.  With a further 250,000 visitors docking at the main ferry terminal in the capital city of Arrecife on cruises around the islands.  A form of tourism which has grown substantially here in recent years – so much so that plans are in fact afoot to create new moorings for luxury liners in the south of the island too. 

The main airport remains the busiest spot for arrivals though, both during the winter and summer months.  As Lanzarote, like the rest of the Canaries, is a popular destination all year round.  Thanks to a semi tropical climate and exceptionally low rainfall figures. 

The best way to explore the island is on four wheels – as local bus services do not run to many of the major attractions such as the Timanfaya National Park.  Fortunately car hire in Lanzarote  is very cheap and easy to arrange.  With plenty of companies vying for the business of tourists across the island. 

Accommodation in Lanzarote  is also very reasonably priced.  For example it’s possible to book Lanzarote apartments  from as little as €180 per week.  Which buys a seven night stay on a well appointed complex in the centre of one of the main holiday resorts.  And that’s the price per room – not per per person. 

Once settled most visitors choose to get out and explore as the island hosts a large number of interesting attractions, as well as loads of great beaches.  The volcanic region is the most popular sight – along with the many creations of a local artist called César Manrique.