Lanzarote: a volcanic island with unique nature and rich culture
Lanzarote is an area where the natural power of volcanoes combines with unique architectural solutions and sustainable development. This island stands out not only for its landscapes, but also for its strict policy of ecosystem conservation, the influence of local art and atypical agricultural practices.
A landscape reminiscent of another planet
Lanzarote is often referred to as the ‘island of fire’ due to its volcanic origins. There are no dense forests or lush vegetation, but the unusual topography and contrasting natural colours create a striking picture.
- The frozen lava rivers form bizarre patterns stretching for kilometres. They are particularly noticeable in the central and western parts of the island.
- Colour contrasts – from the black and grey of the volcanic ground to the scarlet and ochre hues of the craters – make Lanzarote visually unlike any other island.
- Rare plants – the island is renowned for its adapted flora, such as purple succulents and milkweed shrubs, which can survive in arid climates.
A unique take on architecture
Lanzarote is one of the few islands where the architectural style is strictly regulated. There are no chaotic developments or skyscrapers – the buildings are low, white, with green, blue or brown window frames.
- The village of Yaiza preserves old Canarian houses with wooden balconies and patios, making it one of the most beautiful villages in the Canary Archipelago.
- El Golfo is a village where architectural style meets natural phenomenon, the emerald lake Charco de los Clicos, right by the ocean.
Oases among volcanic wastelands
Despite its arid climate, the island uses advanced methods to conserve moisture. Artificial oases provide a contrast to the volcanic landscape.
- TheJardín de Cactus (Cactus Garden) is a collection of over 4,500 cacti from around the world, organised on the site of a former quarry.
- Finca de Uga, a farm where camels, alpacas and rare breeds of goat are raised despite the difficult climate.
Sustainable development: the island of the future
Lanzarote is a leader among the Canary Islands in the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies. The island is committed to minimising its impact on the environment:
- Energy extraction – much of the electricity is generated by wind and solar farms.
- Limiting water consumption – the island utilises desalination systems and special rainwater harvesting techniques.
- Environmental standards for construction – any new project must comply with the concept of sustainable development and fit in with the environment.
Culture and traditions
Lanzarote is not only a natural but also a cultural treasure. The island is known for its festivals, music and art.
- Local handicrafts – in the village of Teguise you can find lava stone crafts, handmade ceramics and the famous Canarian lace.
- The Fiesta de los Dolores is the largest religious festival dedicated to the patron saint of the island. Thousands of pilgrims walk to the shrine in the village of Mancha Blanca.
- Traditional music – Lanzarote is famous for the genre of ‘isas’, which are folk songs sung using guitars, timpani and a local version of castanets.
How to get to Lanzarote
Aeropuerto César Manrique-Lanzarote International Airport (Aeropuerto César Manrique-Lanzarote) receives direct flights from many European cities. From the airport the main resort areas can be reached in 10-30 minutes by bus or taxi. The island has a well-developed public transport network connecting all the main settlements and attractions.
Resort regions
South Coast
Puerto del Carmen is the largest resort town on the island, located 10 kilometres from the airport. There is a 6-kilometre coastal promenade with restaurants and shops. Playa Blanca (Playa Blanca) attracts tourists with its white-sand beaches and luxurious Marina Rubicón (Marina Rubicón).
Northern coast
Costa Teguise is a modern resort designed by the famous architect César Manrique. It is particularly popular with windsurfers due to the constant winds and specially equipped areas. Famara is a destination for surfers from all over the world, famous for its 6 kilometre beach at the foot of impressive cliffs.
Natural attractions
The Parque Nacional de Timanfaya (Timanfaya National Park) covers a quarter of the island and is a unique volcanic landscape formed by eruptions between 1730 and 1736. Visitors can see demonstrations of geothermal activity and take a bus tour of the ‘Mountains of Fire’ (Montañas del Fuego).
Cueva de los Verdes is a 6 kilometre long volcanic cave system formed over 3,000 years ago. Organised guided tours are available along a 1km route with professional lighting and a guide.
Beaches and active holidays
The island offers a variety of beaches:
- Playa de Papagayo, a system of five picturesque coves with crystal clear waters
- Playa de las Cucharas (Playa de las Cucharas) – the centre of windsurfing in Costa Teguise
- Playa de Famara is an ideal surfing destination with consistent waves
Active holidays include:
- Diving in the clear waters of the Atlantic
- Cycling routes of varying difficulty
- Hiking on volcanic trails
- Boat trips to the island of La Graciosa.
Cultural Heritage
Fundación César Manrique is a cultural centre located in the architect’s former lava flow house. It showcases the artist’s work and his vision of sustainable architecture.
Castillo de San José is an 18th-century fortress that today houses the Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo (International Museum of Contemporary Art).
Gastronomic highlights
The cuisine of Lanzarote reflects the traditions of the Canary Islands with local specialities:
- Papas arrugadas – traditional potatoes in sea salt
- Fresh fish and seafood from local fishing ports
- Wines from La Gería, where vineyards are grown in volcanic ash.
- Locally produced goat cheese with protected appellation of origin
Practical information
Temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C all year round. Rainfall is less than 140 mm per year. The high season is from July to September, when accommodation prices increase by 30-40%.
For travelling around the island it is recommended to rent a car – the distance from the north to the south of the island is 60 km, which can be covered in 45 minutes. Public transport links the main settlements with an interval of 30-60 minutes.
The island is recognised by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve, which imposes special requirements for nature conservation and tourism development. More than 40% of the territory is protected as natural parks or reserves.