Lanzarote F.A.Q
Common Question about your Lanzarote holiday
Are Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen mainly beach holiday resorts?
The beaches of Playa Blanca and
Puerto del Carmen - and others nearby - certainly attract
holiday-makers who enjoy sunbathing, water sports and marine excursions, but there are other things to
do besides. Tennis, horse riding and golf are all available and you can go on a Jeep Safari, if you
like. The size of the island, a mere 60km long and 20km wide, makes hiring a car and doing some
sightseeing easy; the island’s natural features, pretty villages and neighbouring resorts are
well worth exploring, if you like a bit of variety in your holiday.
It is advisable to remember that, whatever you are doing, if you spend time out of doors make sure that
you are adequately protected from the sun’s rays; the breeze is very pleasant and cooling but will
not prevent you from burning, even through cloud cover.
Where is the best nightlife on Lanzarote?
The east coast beach resort of Puerto del Carmen is larger than Playa Blanca and renowned
for its nightlife. You can party till all hours at a place called “Centro Atlantico”,
where discos, nightclubs and bars with live music prevail. It is frequented primarily, although not
exclusively, by the younger set and has an Internet Café, if you prefer email to postcards.
Puerto del Carmen is also the place where you will find the Casino de Lanzarote.
Can I play golf on Lanzarote?
Yes. Lanzarote has one Golf Course at Costa Teguise. It is
situated at the base of an old volcano and is an 18 hole international standard course. Not only is it
a popular course, it is also an excellent way to appreciate the geography of the island, the native
vegetation and the Atlantic views. The club has the usual facilities and clubhouse; as it is the only
course on the island, it can get very busy so it is best to book in advance - Tel: 928 590512
Where can I see a traditional village?
One of the most attractive rural settlements on Lanzarote is the village of Yaiza, which
lies inland to the north of Playa Blanca. Pay a visit to Yaiza and you will appreciate why it has held
the title for the most beautiful Spanish village, several years running. The road leading into Yaiza
has been thoughtfully planted with palms and flowering shrubs and the main road actually bypasses the
village to help maintain its peaceful and unhurried atmosphere.
The houses are in the traditional white painted style and beautifully kept, as is the rest of the
village. Yaiza has remained delightfully uncommercial, although there is a cultural centre to give the
visitor information about the village and surrounding area. The church is also worth a visit.
Where can I find out more about Canarian culture?
If you want a “one-stop-shop” for Canary Island culture and customs, Teguise is
the place to visit. Fascinating, in terms of its historic architecture and folklore art forms, it is
also one of the oldest and most picturesque villages in the Canary Islands. Recognised as a cultural
centre, Teguise is the product of many influences over the years leading up to the present day. You can
learn much about Canarian traditions here and it is also the place to shop for craft items and souvenirs,
especially on Sundays when there is a street market.
Where can I study the geology of Lanzarote?
As part of the Canary Islands volcanic archipelago and a World Biosphere Reserve, Lanzarote
has many geological and geothermal features all over the island to interest the visitor. The best place
to appreciate the phenomena is at the Timanfaya National Park or “Mountain of Fire”, where
you can take a guided tour and ask any questions you may have. Fascinating and educational - but if you
want a novel gastronomic experience to go with it, there is a restaurant called El Diablo which actually
harnesses geothermal heat for cooking some of the food served in the establishment.
There are a number of very notable volcanic attractions, including El Golfo; the black sands and emerald
green sea flooded volcanic crater, the Cueva de los Verdes volcanic tunnel and the caves and underground
lake at Jameos del Agua.
How has César Manrique influenced the island?
Lanzarote owes much of the sensitive development that has taken place in the name of
tourism, to the late César Manrique, who was born in Arrecife. Originally a student of
architecture, he pursued an artistic career in Paris and Rome before returning to Lanzarote and
campaigning tirelessly against the kind of unsympathetic development that has spoilt many previously
beautiful holiday destinations.
César Manrique was a prolific artist and sculptor, creating many works of art, including a number
of tourist attractions, chiefly sculptures sited on roundabouts, but also noteably the
Mirador del Rio. New villas in lanzarote
continue to be built in harmony with the traditional face of Lanzarote and his own former home, now the
HQ for the Fundacíon César Manrique makes direct use of the island's natural volcanic
architecture in a most imaginative and unusual way. Well worth a visit.
What is there to see and do at Fuerteventura?
The island of Fuerteventura can easily be seen from Playa
Blanca and is reached by ferry crossing. If you enjoy spending time on the beach, there are over
150 to pick from and water sports, especially windsurfing is popular due the excellent conditions
that prevail. Fuerteventura is only about 110km from the African coastline and has the dry desert
climate and landscape reminiscent of Africa itself. There are several nature parks on Fuerteventura,
if this is where your interest lies. The nearby tiny island of Lobos is also accessible by ferry.
Where are the nearest medical facilities?
There is a 24 Hour emergency free call number: 900 707777
Hospiten Lanzarote
C/. Lomo Gordo s/n
35510 Puerto del Carmen
Lanzarote
Tel. number: 928 596100
Fax number: 928 515635