To me Lanzarote is the islands of the group that holds most attraction. Just as the other islands, it is of volcanic origin. But on Lanzarote there was important volcanic activity during the 18th and 19th century. The arid climate and almost complete lack of erosion has left the traces of the volcanic eruptions intact and the landscape of the island has a touch of a lunar landscape.

During my last vacation I had the opportunity to visit the Atlantida Cave system which was formed due to volcanic activity aproximately 3,000 years ago. It consists of one of the largest volcanic tunnels in the world and an impressive cave. In former times the area was used by the inhabitants to shelter from the frequent pirate attacks.

Contrasting with the volcanic scenary of the island we find quite a few lovely sandbeaches, where sunshine and a mild seabreeze invite the visitor to enjoy a bath in the deep blue ocean.

Several resorts have developed in Lanzarote over the years. Playa del Carmen, Puerto Blanco and Famara offer good acommodations and all the amenities a modern tourist expects. However everything seems to be a bit more laid back that on the neighbouring islands of Tenerife and Gran Canary. An island ideal for a relaxing vacation.

For some hustle and bustle we like to visit Arrecife. The island´s capital also has a very beautiful beach that is lined with palm trees and reminds us of the tropics.

There are many bars and places that offer night entertainment in this area. I always enjoy stopping at one of the street cafes for a cortado, the traditional coffee and then continue on to the town center for shopping. The Canary Islands have a preferential tax status which allows the visitor to bring home tax free items like cigarettes, alcoholic beverages and perfume.

This beautiful little piece of earth has to offer a lot more than only tourist attractions, if you explore the isle you can get to know its charm.

With 795 km ² Lanzarote is the fourth biggest Canary Island after Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura. Lanzarote is less green the the more western Canary islands because of its drought.

The Isle of Lanzarote impresses the visitors with its contrast of rude rocks and cliffs and the deep blue colour of the Atlantic Ocean.

The countryside of Lanzarote radiates quiet and inspiration while in the main tourist resorts rules the eventful life. For example in the capital Arrecife and in the touristic stronghold Playa del Carmen the visitor can enjoy a lively nightlife and lots of shopping possibilities and restaurants.

The famous artist Cesar Manrique is mainly responsible that tourism has not influenced too much on the landscape of Lanzarote. One can almost admire everywhere his creation, which is combining nature and tradition with art and architecture.