A true paradise: which Canary Island to choose for an unforgettable vacation

Lanzarote is one of the most picturesque islands of the Canary Islands, which is located in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of Africa. An unusual landscape, a combination of volcanic forms and clear ocean waters, make this island an ideal place for a dream vacation.

While Gran Canaria, Tenerife, or La Palma are crowded with tourists, regardless of the weather and season, Lanzarote offers no less interesting, intense, and fairly budget-friendly vacations. Experts shared why it is worth visiting this island.

Lanzarote, known as the "island of 1,000 volcanoes", fascinates with "Martian landscapes". The volcanic eruptions that took place in the XVIII century created a unique area with black, red, and orange rocks. The most famous attraction of the island is the Timanfaya National Park, where you can see active geothermal phenomena.

Lanzarote has a mild climate with an average annual temperature of about +22 °C. This makes the island a popular destination for tourists at any time of the year.

"Tourism has been and will be our main sector, the one that has helped us grow and enjoy a better life and that, just like our island, we must protect," said restaurateur Augusto Ferreira.

The outstanding Spanish architect Cesar Manrique, who was born in Lanzarote, left a rich legacy. His works harmoniously combine nature and architecture. He persuaded politicians to preserve the characteristic low-rise buildings and to "disperse" tourism across the island rather than concentrate hotels on certain coasts.

He also helped prevent overdevelopment of the coastline.

"Manrique was not just a celebrated artist…but a visionary who acutely felt the threat of unbridled mass tourism development as early as the late 1960s when the island's first hotel opened," explained local resident Joshua Braddock, explaining Manrique's influence.

There is definitely something to do on the island. Timanfaya National Park offers walks through locations that resemble the surface of Mars. Tourists can ride camels or enjoy the view from a panoramic restaurant where food is cooked using the heat of the volcano.

Lanzarote is famous for its beaches. The most popular of them aew:

• Playa del Papagayo is a cozy bay with white sand and crystal clear water.
• Playa de Famara is an ideal place for surfing and kitesurfing.
• Playa Blanca is a family beach with comfortable conditions.

Lanzarote is known for its unique wines, in particular the Malvasia variety. The island's vineyards are located in the craters of volcanoes, which gives the drinks a special taste.

Lanzarote is a real paradise for sports enthusiasts. Hiking, cycling, diving and surfing are popular here.

The local cuisine combines Spanish traditions with African influence. Among the must-try dishes are:

• Papas arrugadas is small potatoes boiled in salt water and served with Mojo Rojo or Mojo Verde sauce;
• Seafood: fresh fish, squid and octopus are the basis of many local dishes;
• Goat cheese: traditional cheese is a great snack for wine.

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