Lanzarote is one of the seven Spanish islands that form the Canarian archipelago. Which is situated close to the west coast of Africa on a similar line of longitude to parts of Mexico and the Bahamas. As a result the island boasts a semi tropical climate and temperatures that climb into the mid 20´s Celsius even during the depths of December. Making it popular as both a summer and winter sun destination. Especially with tourists from the UK – who account for around half of the 1.4 million tourist arrivals recorded annually. Lanzarote was first subdued and conquered by the Spanish in the early 1400´s – providing a platform for the invasion of the remaining Canary Islands.
Beach at Papagayo And assumed an important role in the growth of the empire – as during the years of
Spain’s a naval domination galleons crossing the
Atlantic with Inca silver and gold would stop and resupply here. During the 18th and 19th centuries the island was rocked by massive volcanic eruptions which totally transformed much of the interior. Replacing farmland and villages with fields of lava and burnt out volcanoes. Causing widespread hardship for
Lanzaroteños and forcing many to
flee and start a new life abroad.
Lanzarote map Modern package tourism first took off in the early 1970´s as General Franco opened Spain up to visitors in order to help boost his flagging economy. With
holidays in Lanzarote becoming instantly popular with tourists from sun starved northern European nations such as the
UK and
Germany.Today tourism is concentrated in the three main holiday resorts of
Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise and
Puerto del Carmen. Leaving the bulk of the island largely unspoiled. Thanks to the fact that high rise buildings and advertising hoardings were outlawed here back in the early 1970´s.
Timanfaya Volcano Park Around half of all visitors to the island book a break in one of
Lanzarote´s 200 plus hotels. With the remainder opting instead to stay in self catering
accommodation – as there are high quality apartments and
villas in Lanzarote available for rent across the island. The volcanic region is by far the most popular
tourist attraction on the
island. And little wonder – as the surreal scenery of the
Timanfaya National Park is literally out of this world. Providing the backdrop for a number of major science fiction classics over the years such as One Million Years BC. As well as the upcoming release of
Clash Of The Titans 3 in 3D, starring Ralph Fiennes and Liam Neeson.
Tags: accommodation, Germany, hotels, Lanzarote, Spain, visitors
