Lanzarote - Do & See
In Lanzarote you can enjoy a wonderful mix of nature, culture and just simple relaxation. Experience the UNESCO Timanfaya National Park, visit the home of the world famous architect César Manrique or spend your days at the beach.
Timanfaya National Park
UNESCO designated the Timanfaya volcanic field a national park in 1993. The 200 square kilometre area affords an interesting geological phenomena and contains 180 types of plants. Only ten meters below, in the Earth’s interior, the temperature reaches 600 degrees Celsius! Timanfaya is a living laboratory for biological research. The area was completely destroyed by repeated volcanic eruptions between 1730 and 1736, and later in 1824. Not surprisingly, one of the peaks is called Fire Mountain.
Puerto del Carmen
Low, sugar-lump houses and over six km of sandy, golden beaches: Welcome to Lanzarote’s tourist centre. Water sports such as windsurfing, diving and angling are popular. There is much to offer in the way of restaurants, nightlife and shopping. Good wines and evening strolls on Puerto del Carmen’s beach promenade – with a gentle sea-breeze, the sound of laughter and the start of nightlife – are a life-affirming experience.
The César Manrique Foundation
The world-renowned architect César Manrique’s (1919-1992) studio and home house both his foundation and a fine art collection with works by, among others, Picasso, Miró and Chillida. The house is a perfect example of César Manrique’s art. Volcanic bubbles are incorporated into modern architecture. The building and garden were built on a lava pile from the period of volcanic eruption from 1730 and 1736.
Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes
One of the world’s most interesting cave formations is to be found 27 km north of the capital, Arrecife. When the volcano Monte de la Corona erupted 3,000 years ago, a subterranean complex of caves and lakes was created – Jameos del Agua. One of them is 62 m long and 21 m high. Here you can find everything from courtyards to subterranean auditoria.
Cueva de los Verdes is adjacent with its 7 km long volcanic tunnel. There is a subterranean lake in the largest cave.
Castillo de San Jose Museum
This modern art gallery is housed in an old military fortess, built to support the island against Pirate attacks in the 18th century. The historical building combined with the contemporary artwork give this museum an exciting contrast.
Rancho Texas Park
Just outside Playa del Carmen you find this park with exotic animals such as White Tigers, Cougars and different reptiles. There are lots of activities for the whole family. Animal shows and horse riding are just a few and bring your bathing clothes so you don't miss the waterpark section.
Los Hervideros
At Los Hervidos pathways built on cliffs inside underwater caves gives you the opportunity to watch the amazing show when water stream with a dramatic power into the cave. If the water is really rough the sound effect will be deafening.
Surfing
Lanzarote is an island with perfect surfing conditions. The peak season with the best waves is between November to late March but surfing can be done all year round. You find the best spots on the west coast and there you also find several different surfing camps and schools. One of the most popular ones is:
Aquapark Costa Teguise
Fun for the whole family! Waterslides and attractions for all ages makes this a perfect place to visit during your holiday. You also find restaurants and shops in the park.
LagOmar Museum
This stunning villa, built into the volcanic rock, now also accomodate a museum, restaurant and guest house. It is surrounded caves, tunnels and beautiful gardens and you will always spot something new wandering around in the area.
Jardin de Cactus
This big garden of more than a thousand different cactus types is of great interest for both children and adults. César Manrique is the man behind this project and it became his last one before his death. There are several places in the garden where you will see his works, for instance the toilets.
Mirador del Rio
This gazebo is one of many works of César Manrique. From the several decks hanging on the cliffs you have a great view over the north western coast of the island and the nearby Isla Graciosa.
Pardelas Park
Pardelas Park is a Canarian farm where children can connect with the different animals. They can ride a donkey, feed and pet the animals and try pottery. The farm has its own restaurant where you can enjoy a lunch with tapas and local wine.
Santa Barbara Castle
All of the Canary Islands have a history of Pirates. This castle from the 16th century was not only built to protect Lanzarote from the intruders but also to be a refuge for the locals. Today the castle features a piracy museum.
Museo Etnografico Tanit
This small museum shows the history of the life on Lanzarote. In addition to the permanent exhibition it also presents different expos on regular basis.
