Lanzarote was formed by the effect of geological events consequent to the opening of the Atlantic Ocean. It has been calculated that some 11 million years ago, lava emissions began to reach the surface. This Atlantic Ocean island is located some 86 miles [140 km] off the northwest coast of the African continent. Lanzarote is one of the seven islands that make up the Spanish autonomous region of Canarias.
The most attractive part of the city is along its seafront, which features its most historical sites and buildings, such as the historic compound known as Castillo de San Gabriel [San Gabriel’s Castle] (1742), an impressive fort coupled with the legendary silhouette of the Las Bolas drawbridge. A stroll along the fort will bring you to the Avenida de la Iglesia (from the late 17th century) and el Charco de San Ginés, a small maritime centre which eventually inspired the relocation of the island’s capital from Teguise to Arrecife.
Chinijo Archipelago, just over one nautical mile northwest of Lanzarote, is a protected natural area, rich in marine biodiversity, comprising the islands of La Graciosa, Montaña Clara, Alegranza and Iroquois of the East and West.
Agricultural land and livestock, their villages have a rustic charm carved over the centuries. Its rugged terrain due to the effects of volcanic eruptions in 1730 in the nearby Mountain of Fire.
The small fishing town of Playa Blanca has been transformed into Lanzarote’s flagship tourist destination. These five miles of lush coast are home to the island’s most modern selection of lodging options, mostly four and five-star hotels. Home to excellent beaches, such as Papagayo and Los Charcones, Playa Blanca furthers the beach vacation experience with an extensive offer of cultural and culinary attractions.
Puerto del Carmen enjoys excellent weather, owed in large part to the fact that is sheltered from the constant winds that sweep Lanzarote. The almost always clear skies make Playa del Carmen one of the best beach destinations in all the Canary Islands. In fact, beaches abound in this tourist area. Just outside La Tiñosa you’ll find many beaches, such as La Barilla, Cueva de Doña Juana (belonging to the Hotel Fariones) and Playa Blanca (known as Playa Grande on the island, thanks to its wide stretch of sand).