Lanzarote has been welcoming foreign tourists ever since the package holiday industry first started up in the early 1970´s. Proving popular thanks to a classic combination of breathtaking beaches and incredible weather. However Lanzarote can offer visitors much more than just sand and sun alone. Thanks to the fact that development here is carefully controlled – leaving the bulk of the island largely untouched.
Just like on Tenerife and Gran Canaria there is a profound north south divide on Lanzarote when it comes to the climate and subsequent tourist development. With the south boasting better weather as a result of the profound microclimate here. Whilst the north is less developed and preferred by the locals as a result.
Over the last decade more and more independent travellers have started to visit Lanzarote. A result of the growth of the internet and the trend to browse and book holidays online. This trend has increased interest in self catering accommodation such as Lanzarote villas and apartments – at the expense of package holiday deals and hotels. With holiday villas in Puerto del Carmen – the islands largest resort – proving very popular with tourists from the UK and Eire.Details about Puerto del Carmen villas can be found here
Outside the large resorts in the south there is an unspoilt island with a strong agricultural past. A well as loads of off the beaten track attractions. All of which are best explored by booking a car and heading out on tour.
Head for the pretty village of Haria to start connecting with the real Lanzarote. This pueblo has been described by the eminent Canarian author Alberto Vazquez as the prettiest village on the island if not the world. Which is probably a bit of an exaggeration – but not that wide of the truth. As Haria is a real green oasis on an island that is otherwise largely devoid of flora and fauna. Thanks to very low rainfall and a dry and arid climate. In Haria villagers started to plant palm trees for every new born baby centuries ago. And today their valley is aptly known as the Valley of 1000 Palms, with countless Canarian palms creating a striking sight.
Just ten minutes away is the equally delightful coastal village of Arrieta – which is one of the last unsoiled spots on Lanzarote´s south eastern shoreline. Head here at lunchtime and enjoy a great meal in one of the restaurants that sit right next to the beach.
