As cold winter weather really starts to bite across Northern Europe there is one part of the continent that is still basking in warm sunshine. As the Spanish owned Canary Islands enjoy great weather all year round – thanks to their location a 100 miles or so off the south west coast of Morroco.

These seven islands have become enormously popular with tourists from countries such as the UK, Germany and Eire over the last thirty years.  As they are just a four hour flight, but a world away in terms of climate – especially during the depths of December and January.

Lanzarote is the fourth largest of the islands and amongst the least spoiled.  There are no high rise buildings and ad billboards were banned in the 1970´s. whilst the three main holiday resorts of Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise are all well contained.

As a result Lanzarote is a real nature lover’s paradise – boasting landscapes that are largely untouched by modern development.  Along with some fantastic all natural beaches, such as Caleta de Famara on the islands wilder North West coastline.

The best known region is undoubtedly the Timanfaya Volcano Park, scene of a set of huge eruptions which rocked Lanzarote in the 18^th century.  Covering much of the interior of the island in a sea of solid black lava.  A surreal sight which attracts close to one million visitors every year.

Getting to Lanzarote

Flights to Lanzarote have never been cheaper.  It´s currently possible to book returns to the island from as little as £10 with Ryanair.  Whilst other low cost operators such as easyJet and Aer Lingus are all offering competitively priced tickets too.

Places To Stay

There´s plenty of decent accommodation in Lanzarote. Ranging from apartments through to luxury hotels.  Playa Blanca in the south is home to the largest selection of Lanzarote holiday villas – with prices starting from around £400 per week.  Whilst the oldest resort of Puerto del Carmen boasts the largest selection of apartment complexes for those on a tighter budget.

Sightseeing

As well as the mandatory volcanic region Lanzarote is also home to the unique creations of César Manrique.  A local artist who sought to develop alternative tourist attractions that work in harmony with Lanzarote´s delicate volcanic terrain.

His best known project is the Jameos del Agua – where he created a huge concert venue and grotto in the shell of a collapsed lava tube.  An impressive feat of engineering which really helped to put Lanzarote on the tourist map.

~ Article contributed by Nick Ball ~