Lanzarote is the fourth largest of the Canary Islands and is famous for its stunning volcanic scenery and moderate climate. The long, golden beaches, all year round sunshine make it a popular with families and couples. Thankfully the growth of tourism in Lanzarote has been closely controlled. You won't find any of the nasty hi-rise developments so often found in other parts of Spain! In Lanzarote building is strictly controlled and even in the resorts, five star hotels nestle sympathetically beside stylish apartment complexes and developments of luxury villas.

 

Local artist Cesar Manrique made sure that the island embraced tourism but was not spoilt by it. Many of his sculptures can be seen around the island and his house in Tahiche, just outside Costa Teguise, is well worth a visit. Eating out is relatively cheap in Lanzarote which is one of the reasons why so many people enjoy a self catering holiday on the island. Local supermarkets are also reasonably priced and stock everything needed for a relaxing self catering holiday.

 

Cesar Manrique left the island with a legacy of a good selection of art galleries and stylish tourist attractions such as the Mirador del Rio observation point Jameos del Agua concert venue. As with all of Manrique´s work, these tourist attractions are designed to make the most of their natural surroundings.

 

The wine growing region of La Geria is worth a visit to see the unusual method of growing vines in volcanic “pits”.

 

Teguise is only 15 kms from Famara and is the ancient capital of the island. Six days a week it is a sleepy, town with cobbled streets and a small selection of restaurants and bars. However on a Sunday morning it is transformed by a large street market which sells everything from local handicrafts to tacky tourist souvenirs. It´s worth a visit but does get crowded.