Long Weekend In Lanzarote

 

The small Canary Island of Lanzarote is a just a two and a half hour flight from Madrid. But a world away in terms of weather conditions – especially during the winter months. Thanks to its location just 79 miles off the coast of southern Morocco on a similar line of longitude to parts of Mexico and Florida.

 

As a result Lanzarote enjoys average temperatures of around 21 Celsius even during the depths of December. Making it an ideal getaway for sun starved Madrileños and expatriates alike. With direct flights to the island available from low cost specialists Ryanair and easyJet – as well as Spanish carriers Iberia and Spanair. Both of whom offer hefty travel discounts for anyone in posession of Spanish residency. Making Lanzarote an ideal candidate for a long weekend or full on winter break.

 

Unlike some of the other Canary Islands Lanzarote´s landscape hasn’t been scarred by high rise hotels and advertising hoardings. As these were all banned during the 1970´s. Whilst strict planning laws ensure against the sort of over development that has blighted some other Spanish sunspots.

 

As a result Lanzarote has been left largely as nature intended – especially away fro the three main resorts. Which is just as well – as the island boasts more than its fair share of natural – if unconventional – beauty.

 

This is most evident in and around the volcanic region, which occupies around one third of Lanzarote´s interior. A surreal, lunar like landscape created by a huge chain of eruptions in the 1730s which lasted for around six years. Wiping out villages, farmland and livelihoods and leaving lava fields and burn out volcanoes in its wake.

 

The whole region was declared a National Park in 1974 today welcomes close to one million visitors every year.

 

Away from the twisted terrain of the islands interior Lanzarote boasts close to 100 spectacular beaches. Some of which, such as the set of coves and bays at Pagagayo in the south, are regarded as amongst the best in the whole of the Canarian archipelago.

 

During the winter months visitors are best advised to follow the swallows and head south. As even on an island measuring just 60km by 40km there’s still a pronounced mircoclimate at work. Making Playa Blanca at the bottom tip of the island the most reliable resort for decent weather.

 

Playa Blanca also offers an excellent selection of accommodation and is home to the bulk of the best hotels and villas in Lanzarote . Such as the five star Gran Melia Volcan, located right next to the stylish Rubicon Marina development. Which provides mooring for luxury yachts from around the world.