Lanzarote: More Than Just Sun and Sand

When most people think of a holiday in Lanzarote, they picture golden beaches, a cold pint of beer, and the year-round sunshine that has made the Canary Islands a British favourite for decades. And don’t get me wrong: there is absolutely nothing wrong with that! I love a lazy afternoon by the pool as much as anyone. But if you stop there, you’re missing out on one of the most unique, otherworldly, and culturally rich islands in the world.

As your personal travel consultant, I’m always telling my clients that Lanzarote is like nowhere else on Earth. It’s a place where volcanic eruptions from the 1700s have left a landscape that looks more like Mars than the Atlantic. It’s an island where one man’s artistic vision protected the coastline from the high-rise eyesores seen elsewhere.

If you're planning a trip, here is my guide on how to see the real Lanzarote, along with my top tips for making the most of your time away.

Why Lanzarote is the Ultimate Year-Round Escape

Before we dive into what to do, let’s talk about when to go. One of the best things about this island is the climate. It’s often called the "Island of Eternal Spring."

• Winter Sun: From November to February, while the UK is shivering, Lanzarote usually enjoys temperatures in the low 20s. It’s the perfect "winter sun" destination without the long-haul flight.

• Spring and Autumn: These are my absolute favourite times to visit. In April, May, September, and October, the weather is gorgeous: warm enough for the beach but cool enough to go hiking or exploring the volcanic parks without melting.

• The Flight: One of the reasons Lanzarote remains a top choice for UK travellers is the ease of getting there. It’s roughly a 4-hour flight from most major UK airports, meaning you can have breakfast at home and be dipping your toes in the Atlantic by lunch.

The Man Who Saved the Island: César Manrique

You cannot talk about Lanzarote without talking about César Manrique. He was an artist, architect, and visionary who grew up on the island. He realised early on that mass tourism could ruin the natural beauty of his home, so he worked closely with the local government to ensure that buildings stayed low-rise, traditional white-washed walls were preserved, and the natural landscape remained the star of the show.

To really "get" Lanzarote, you have to visit his creations. Start with the Jameos del Agua. This is a stunning series of volcanic caves that Manrique transformed into a concert hall, a restaurant, and a swimming pool. It’s also home to tiny, blind white crabs that are unique to this specific spot.

Then there’s the Mirador del Río. Perched high on a cliff at the northern tip of the island, this lookout point is practically invisible from the outside, tucked away into the rock. The views across the water to the tiny island of La Graciosa are enough to take your breath away. If you’re looking for a bit of personalservice on your holiday, I can help you pre-book a tour that covers all these artistic highlights so you don’t have to worry about the logistics.

Timanfaya National Park: A Trip to Mars

If there is one "must-do" on the island, it’s Timanfaya National Park. Between 1730 and 1736, the island suffered a series of massive volcanic eruptions that changed the landscape forever. Today, the "Fire Mountains" are a protected national park.

When you arrive, you’ll see demonstrations of just how hot the ground still is. Staff will pour water into holes in the ground, and it shoots back out as a steaming geyser seconds later. They even have a restaurant, El Diablo, where they cook meat over the heat rising naturally from the earth!

Top Tip: You can’t walk freely through the park because the terrain is so fragile, so you’ll need to take the official coach tour that winds through the craters. The views are incredible, looking out over "seas" of solidified lava.

Exploring Beyond the Resorts: Rent a Car!

While the local buses are decent and taxis are plentiful, the absolute best way to experience Lanzarote is by renting a car. The roads are surprisingly good, very well signposted, and mostly quite quiet once you get away from the main resort areas of Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca.

Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to find the hidden gems that the big tour buses can’t reach.

• Teguise: Not to be confused with Costa Teguise, the old capital of Teguise is a beautiful, historic town inland. On Sundays, it hosts a huge market, but I actually prefer visiting on a weekday when it’s quieter. The cobbled streets and traditional architecture are stunning.

• Haría: Known as the "Valley of a Thousand Palms," this is a lush, green contrast to the dark volcanic south. It’s incredibly peaceful and home to another of Manrique’s houses.

• El Golfo: A tiny fishing village on the west coast where you’ll find a bright green lagoon (Charco de los Clicos) sitting right on a black sand beach. It’s the perfect spot for a seafood lunch.

The Wine of the Volcano: La Geria

You might think that a dry, volcanic island would be a terrible place to grow grapes, but Lanzarote’s farmers are incredibly clever. In the region of La Geria, they grow vines in deep pits protected by semi-circular stone walls called zocos. These walls protect the plants from the wind and help trap moisture from the night air.

The result is a landscape that looks like a giant patchwork quilt from above. The wine itself: mostly Malvasía: is delicious. Crisp, cold, and perfect for a sunny afternoon. Most of the bodegas (wineries) along the main road offer tastings and tapas. It’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon after a morning of exploring.

Top Tips for Your Lanzarote Adventure

1. Pack a Layer: Even in the height of summer, Lanzarote can be windy. The "Trade Winds" are what keep the temperature pleasant, but it can feel a bit chilly in the evenings or when you’re high up at a viewpoint. Always bring a light jacket or pashmina.

2. Sun Cream is Vital: Because of those lovely breezes, you often don't realise how hot the sun is. The UV levels are very high here, so keep the SPF topped up even if you don't feel "hot."

3. Visit La Graciosa: If you have a spare day, take the ferry from Orzola in the north over to the island of La Graciosa. There are no paved roads, just sand tracks and some of the most beautiful, untouched beaches in the Canaries.

4. Try the Papas Arrugadas: You can’t leave without trying "wrinkly potatoes." They are small local potatoes boiled in very salty water and served with Mojo sauce (a spicy red or green garlic sauce). They are addictive!

5. Book in Advance: Lanzarote has become incredibly popular for its unique culture. If you want to visit the main Manrique sites, I recommend buying a "CACT" multi-centre ticket. As part of my personalservice, I can help you figure out which ticket is best for your itinerary.

Why I Love Lanzarote

Lanzarote is an island that surprises people. Many go for the sun and stay for the soul. Whether you are a family looking for safe, sandy beaches and great water parks, or a couple looking for a romantic retreat in a boutique hotel surrounded by vineyards, there is a side of this island that will suit you perfectly.

There is a real sense of peace here. Maybe it’s the vast open spaces of the volcanic plains, or the way the white houses look against the deep blue of the Atlantic, but it’s a place that really allows you to switch off and recharge.

If you’re thinking about your next getaway, don’t just think of Lanzarote as a "fly and flop" destination. It’s a place for adventure, for art, and for some of the most dramatic scenery you’ll ever see.

Planning a trip can sometimes feel overwhelming with so many options for flights, hotels, and car rentals. That’s where I come in! Using a travel expert means you get the best advice, the best prices, and that all-important personalservice. I can help you find that perfect villa with a mountain view or a beachfront hotel that puts you right in the heart of the action.

Lanzarote is waiting for you; and I promise, it’s about so much more than just the sun and sand!