Photo of Lanzarote from Lonely Planet
As we step into an invigorating year ahead, let’s start off with a travel journal to Lanzarote, Canary Islands. It may seem counterintuitive to travel as the year has just begun, but we think travelling opens up one’s mind and rejuvenates our spirits to start the year on the right note. Lanzarote in particular, is the perfect destination to provide a refreshing start to 2019.
Map of Lanzarote from Pinterest
The beauty of Lanzarote lies in its otherworldly landscapes that include a UNESCO biosphere reserve, over 300 volcanoes and pristine beaches. The island is also blessed with a climate that boasts of warm winters and not-too-warm summers, which makes it a delight to visit all year round.
Photo of Lanzarote’s Moon-Like Landscape from Cool Canaries
Photo of Playa De Papayago from First Minute Transfer
Make your first stop at one of Lanzarote’s pristine beaches. Soak up some sunshine at Playa de Papagayo, the islands most popular beach or visit Playa del Charco de los Clicos, one of several black sand beaches on the island. Besides the breathtaking views at Lanzarote’s famous beaches, you can enjoy the gorgeous natural landscapes at the Parque Nacional De Timanfaya.
Photo of Montañas del Fuego from Bernhard Edmaier
Be enthralled by the Montañas del Fuego (Mountains of Fire) located in the middle of the park, where temperatures on the ground around you soar to 600 degrees despite being only 10 meters from sea level.
Photo of the Jardin de Cactus from the Tourism Board of Canary Islands
If you prefer something a little cooler, head to Lanzarote’s famous landmark – The Jardin de Cactus. Brainchild of Lanzarote’s most famous artist César Manrique, this outdoor museum houses over 4,500 specimens of various species of cactus. After enjoying the visual spectacle at the Parque Nacional De Timanfaya and the Jardin de Cactus, make a day trip to the wine region of La Geria for an afternoon tipple.
Photo of Bodega El Grifo’s vineyard from CNN
This little region in the central part of the island boasts of a proud history of viniculture. Lanzarote’s flourishing vineyards are the result of a unique combination of thick layers of volcanic soil rich in nutrients, naturally occuring slopes and warm-to-cool variation of temperatures creating the perfect environment for grape vines to thrive in. As such, some of it’s wineries have existed for hundreds of years. At El Grifo, Lanzarote’s oldest winery, you can taste their artisanal selection of wines, some of which are from vines that have existed since the 19th century. You can also explore the vineyards on guided tours and learn more about Lanzarote’s rich viniculture.
Photo of Lanzarote from Where Jo Goes
With an island full of unique landscapes, beaches, vineyards and museums, there’s nothing more perfect than starting the year on the right note in Lanzarote.