Discover Lanzarote This Winter
There are plenty of winter sun destinations around the World. But few offer both the value and the convenience of the Canary Islands for British tourists. As the ‘European Caribbean’ is just four hours away by plane – located just off the coast of Morocco.
Over the years these seven specks of Spain have earned a bit of a downmarket reputation. And on larger islands such as Tenerife tourist development has certainly done little to improve the landscape. But on Lanzarote high rise buildings are banned whilst strict planning laws curb the worst excesses of the hotel chains and property speculators. Leaving the island largely unspoiled.
This winter it’s never been cheaper to visit. As flights to Lanzarote are currently on sale with low cost airlines such as Ryanair for as little as £9.99. As competition on this route hots up – thanks to a decision by the Spanish government to waive airport taxes and charges until the end of March 2010 in a bid to revive Spain’s faltering tourist sector. Which has seen visitor numbers drop on Lanzarote by close to 20% over the course of the year as the island struggles with the impact of the current economic crisis and the weakness of sterling against the euro.
Either way Lanzarote still has plenty to recommend it. Most importantly boasting excellent weather even during the darkest depths of winter. Along with close to 100 beautiful beaches and a host of things to do and see.
The islands best known attraction is the awe inspiring volcanic interior. Created around 250 years ago by a series of eruptions that lasted for six years. Leaving a lunar like landscape in its wake that has served as the backdrop for numerous science fiction films and which is surreal in the extreme.
These and other key attractions such as the Jameos del Agua, Mirador del Rio and the Cactus Garden are best explored by car. As public bus services are very limited. Whilst car hire in Lanzarote is extremely affordable – starting at around €90 per week and petrol much cheaper than in the UK, at just 0.80 euro per litre.
Good quality accommodation options are available across the island too. With the bulk of the best Lanzarote villas and hotels located in the two main resorts of Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca. Whilst chic countryside fincas and hotels cater to a growing demand for rural holidays.