In the archipelago of the Canaries, Lanzarote is probably the most unfamiliar island. Lanzarote is a small island formed by ancient volcanic activities, where countless volcanoes show up on the vast, flat and arid ands. Aside from its out of the world sceneries, Lanzarote boasts many sand beaches (from pure black to white sand), picturesque whitewashed villages, vineyards and mesmerizing roads.
Lanzarote is such a small island that it takes not more than 1:30 hour from the top to the bottom. Therefore I didn’t map out our itinerary like I did for Gran Canaria and Tenerife. If you’re thinking of going on holiday to Lanzarote, I would recommend to book a single accommodation and drive around when the mood takes you.
Timanfaya National Park
Let’s be completely honest here, the National Park of Timanfaya is amazing but way too tourists-friendly. Since you cannot explore the park by yourself, you will need to book a guided tour to access to the place. The tour is fun, the roads are sensational, but there is a downside : you have to remain in the bus during the whole tour, which is quite annoying for all the photographers who want to capture this exceptional place.
[If you are craving to see more of the volcanos like I did, there is a back road joining Playa de la Madera that offers a view on the volcanic cones, and especially the massive Caldera Blanca. The LZ-704 leading to El Golfo is not bad either].
El Golfo
With its white-painted houses, El Golfo stands out of its environment. This little village lies at the edge of the Western coast and features an atypical green lagoon with a wondrous beach. This place is so far the most colorful place I’ve ever seen, the green lagoon contrasts against the orange eroded walls and the black beach next to it.
Typical houses of Lanzarote and the otherworldly port of El Golfo.
The green lagoon and its dramatic black sand beach.
Salinas de Janubio
The salines of Janubio are a great photo stop with many interesting textures and patterns. There is also a shop where you can buy your own salt.
La Geria
For wine amateurs or curious, La Geria is the place to be. Wine-tasting over the moon-alike scenery is a unique and memorable experience. La Geria is the premier wine-producing region in Lanzarote. In order to protect the vines from the harsh winds, winemakers built these horshoe-shaped rock walls, turning the winery into a second to none scenery.
Haria
Called the Valley of a Thousand Palm Trees, the valley of Haria is a beautiful place to stroll through. Back in the 17th century, villagers used to plant one palm tree for every boy born, and two palm trees for every girl born.
Costa de Papagayo
For a more secluded time at the beach, opt for the Costa de Papagayo in the far South. This headland offers 5 wonderful bleach beaches. This part of the island is softer and feels safer than the rest of the island : the sand is thin and pale, the waters are clear and all the beaches are sheltered by natural cliffs.
Playa de Famara
A popular destination for surfers and kitesurfers. This long curvy beach is backed by imposing rugged cliffs, creating an impressive reflection on the wet sand when the tide is outgoing. Before going at the beach of Famara, double check the wind forecast, it can become quite annoying.
While we were around, we meandered through the village of Famara : Caleta de Famara. This place gives the strange feeling to be in a middle of a western movie with all the streets being covered in sand.
Montanã Cabrera
This typical mountain hides a few different collapsed holes to discover. There is one secret cave in the upper half, revealing a beautiful natural sky window.
Mirador del Rio
A popular spot with amazing vistas on the tiny Island of La Graciosa.
