Top 10 things to do in Lanzarote
1. Timanfaya National Park
In the 18th century, part of Lanzarote, including several villages, was devastated by series of volcanic eruptions, which also led to the creation of the volcanoes known as “Fire Mountains”. Today, due to little precipitation, this area does not look much different than how it did 300 years ago and visitors can enjoy a barren, “Martian’ landscape, strange vegetation and a Canarian restaurant where food is cooked in holes in the ground, thanks to geothermal heat.
2. Hit the beach
Canaries Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions and Lanzarote is no exception; however in the island there are generally less beaches with black sand compared to other volcanic islands, and they are especially found in the east..Several gold sandy beaches lay instead in the south of the island.
3. Surfing
In the north-east of Lanzarote there are great beaches for the ones who want to go surfing, with several shops nearby selling surfing and kite-surfing equipment. Beginners should not overlook this possibility as instructors are available on the spot.
4. Whales and Dolphins Museum
Canarian waters host different species of aquatic mammals, which are constantly studied by the association of “Study of Cetaceans in the Canary Islands”. The information gathered over 20 years of studies has led to the creation of a museum, specialized in providing interesting details about these wonderful animals.
5. Jameos del Agua
Jameos del Agua is one-of-a-kind attraction, consisting in a cave system with collapsed roof formed thousands of years ago and transformed by the artist Cesar Manrique into a complex including a restaurant, a natural lake and an auditorium, where local and international shows are held.
6. Cactus Garden
More than 1100 species of cactus are preserved in this area, among which there are both native species and specimen coming from other parts of the world. The Garden was established by Cesar Manrique, who created a unique artistic landscape.
7. Cesar Manrique Foundation
Lanzarote owes much to Cesar Manrique, the man behind several attractions located on the island. Manrique’s former residence is nowadays a museum built in volcanic lava and it includes pieces of art by Picasso and Miro’. The foundation fights against the construction of illegal buildings (e.g. hotels) on the island.
8. Diving
Along with other islands of the Canary Archipelago, Lanzarote offers world-class scuba diving, thanks to mild waters all year round, solidified underwater lava, wrecks, caves and stunning aquatic life including barracuda and stingray species.
9. Pardelas Park
Pardelas Park is an ideal place for families and younger children, though it can be interesting for young couples as well. Kids will absolutely love petting animals and riding donkeys, while adults can relax, enjoying a huge selection of local food and wine.
10. Mirador del Rio
Located in the very north of Lanzarote, Mirador del Rio is an observation point situated on a 465m high escarpment. This is another spot bearing Cesar Manrique unique style, who managed to combine the beauty of artificial elements such as panoramic windows and concrete with the natural beauty of the landscape