From Volcanoes to Waves: A 7 Days of of Unforgettable Adventures in Lanzarote
My husband and I spent the last week of November on one of the Canary Islands – Lanzarote. It’s already cold in Central Europe and we wanted to warm up somewhere not far from home. We got an idea for cheap flights from Bratislava and found an unknown destination for us. We didn’t have high expectations, but with a relatively long flight – 4.5 hours, we moved to a completely different world. And it enchanted us.
Nestled in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, Lanzarote stands as a testament to the extraordinary forces of nature. This captivating island, part of the Canary archipelago, boasts a unique and dramatic landscape shaped by volcanic activity. With its lunar-like terrain, Lanzarote is often referred to as the “Island of Fire,” a title that perfectly captures the perfectly mixing rough charm and natural beauty just waiting to be explored.
Adventure vacations play a crucial role in breaking the monotony of routine and injecting a dose of excitement into our lives. Beyond the thrill and adrenaline, these escapades offer a chance to step out of our comfort zones, fostering personal growth and resilience.
Lanzarote places to visit
In short, I will outline our highlights from our vacation – visiting the Timanfaya National Park (Parque Nacional de Timanfaya) in a land covered with lava. Breathtaking views of the beautiful Famara beach from the cliff – nothing for people who are afraid of heights and magical tastings of the best wines I have ever tasted directly from the lava fields.
Things to do in Costa Teguise
Thanks to the early morning flight, we were able to enjoy the beautiful sunshine from early in the morning. We were surprised by the extremely warm weather. In November, temperatures in Lanzarote reach up to 23 degrees Celsius. That’s why we decided to head from the car rental office, which is right at the airport, to the beach.
We headed by car to a town by the beach just a few minutes away from the airport to Costa Teguise for morning coffee.
Since we had a lot of time to check in at the accommodation, we decided to visit the first of the architectural pieces of the artist César Manrique on the way.
The César Manrique Foundation
The César Manrique Foundation stands as a tribute to the life and work of the visionary artist. Located in the artist’s former residence in Tahíche, Lanzarote. In the middle of a lava field with a magical view of the ubiquitous volcanoes you can find this artist’s home. We were enchanted by the network of interconnected volcanic bubbles in which the artist created, lived and partied a lot, as you can find out inside. 🙂
You can find his paintings, sculptures, and architectural designs. The building is breathtaking and we recommend visiting it.
César Manrique created art on the island in connection with nature
César Manrique was a visionary artist, architect, and environmentalist whose influence left an indelible mark on the island of Lanzarote, his birthplace. Renowned for his ability to seamlessly integrate art with nature, Manrique played a pivotal role in shaping the island’s sustainable development and preserving its unique charm.
Best things to do in Lanzarote by César Manrique:
- Museo César Manrique
- Mirador del Rio
- Jameos del Agua
- Jardín de Cactus
- Fundación César Manrique
- International Museum of Contemporary Arts
- El Diablo Restaurant
Driving in Lanzarote island
Lanzarote is a relatively small island, it is only 60 km long and 25 km wide. The island is criss-crossed with fantastic new roads. So you don’t have to worry about driving. This infrastructure also suits road cyclists, of whom you will meet hundreds in Lanzarote.
👍🏻 TIP: You can read more about renting a car in Lanzarote below.
Lanzarote: Paradise for athletes
With a network of well-maintained cycling paths and routes catering to all skill levels, Lanzarote offers an unparalleled experience for riders. The gentle ocean breeze, clear skies, and the warmth of the sun create a perfect cycling environment year-round.
As cycling enthusiasts, we were enchanted by this island and would love to return in the future just to tour the island by bike. You can find a bike rental in every town.
Additionally, Lanzarote hosts windsurfing and kitesurfing championships, taking advantage of its favourable wind conditions and inviting waters.
Lanzarote hosts various championships throughout the year, drawing participants and spectators alike to this vibrant island. One notable event is the Lanzarote International Marathon. For water sports enthusiasts, the Lanzarote Ironman Triathlon is a premier championship that combines swimming, cycling, and running.
Explore Timanfaya National Park
We stayed in the town of Tajaste. It is far away from the tourist traffic of Playa Blanca and other similar parts. It is a small town with a shop, a bakery and some restaurants near the Timanfaya National Park.
On the second day we went to the Timanfaya national park early in the morning before 9:00. But first we ordered delicious sweet pastries from the bakery with coffee with milk(café con leche) and fresh orange juice (zumo de naranja) to strengthen. It is good to know a few words of Spanish. Even if the hosts do not understand much English, they are very nice and helpful.
Go to the national park by car early in the morning before it opens. Otherwise, long queues start after 9:00.They served us at the ticket office and suggested that we buy a combined ticket if we also plan to visit other tourist spots around the island. You can also book them online in advance.
Timanfaya National Park by bus tour
In order to preserve the beauty of the national park, hiking in the park is not allowed outside of the bus tour operated by the national park. It’s a shame because the park is really special. On the other hand, it is dangerous to move around alone in the given location. Tourism could easily disturb this environment.
A bus tour through Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote is an immersive and awe-inspiring journey into the heart of the island’s volcanic landscapes. As the bus traverses the otherworldly terrain, visitors are treated to panoramic views of vast lava fields, dramatic craters, and the iconic Fire Mountains of Timanfaya.
The highlight of the tour is the demonstration of the area’s geothermal activity. You can try touching hot stones, or see an artificial geyser, or try roasted chicken on magmatic heat in the restaurant El Diablo.
La Geria – Where Vines Dance in the Shadows of Volcanoes
When you finish your tour in the Martian-like landscape, I suggest you relax and enjoy a light lunch in one of the wineries in the Geria area. La Geria is a unique and picturesque wine region in Lanzarote, known for its innovative vineyard cultivation and stunning landscapes. La Geria has extraoridinary viticulture method. To protect the vines from the strong winds and conserve moisture in the porous volcanic soil, each vine is planted in a small, crescent-shaped pit known as a “hoyo.” These craters, often surrounded by low stone walls, create a mesmerising pattern across the fields.
First, we visited the most popular vineyard, Bodega La Geria, which is set in a unique environment under volcanoes. Here you can admire the traditional fields in the black soil. We were completely captivated by the surroundings, just like hundreds of other tourists. We didn’t try the tasting, I didn’t like the number of tourists in the Bodega.
I had another winery up my sleeve, the most traditional and oldest on the island, Bodega El Grifo. To my surprise, the winery was almost empty. We were surprised by many employees who tried to convince us to go on a wine tour. However, we politely asked if it was possible to have a glass of their wine and they let us into their bar.
The waiter served us on the pleasant terrace and offered us a tasting of their three wines and a tasting of goat cheeses. I’m not a fan of goat cheese, but we gave them a chance. The wine was fantastic, it smelled of minerals and it was a magical experience. The goat cheeses were delicious and I really liked them. From that moment on, we ordered El Grifo everywhere on the island.
Then we went to the town of San Bartolomé to the local restaurant close to church and tried traditional food. We had shrimps in hot garlic oil (Gambas al ajillo) and tasted the Mojo Sauce.
Las Grietas Canyon
Las Grietas Canyon is a natural formation on a volcano that is extremely photogenic. It is a short stop along the way, but you can observe beautiful views from it. It is a natural cleft in the earth, formed by ancient volcanic activity.
Traditional Sunday Market in Teguise
The Traditional Sunday Market in Teguise is a vibrant experience that draws locals and visitors alike to the heart of Lanzarote. This weekly market, held in the island’s former capital, transforms the historic streets into a kaleidoscope of colours, aromas, and sounds. You can find handmade jewellery from lava stones, and leather haberdashers, or craftsmen creating products from glass or sand.
It is a pity that there are already more non-local sellers who offer Chinese goods and goods from Africa.
Saborea Tasting Lanzarote
However, we came across a beautiful moment, a food and wine festival Saborea Tasting Lanzarote was taking place the weekend of our visit. We tried traditional products of the sea and the volcanic earth from the best chefs! Fish croquettes, shrimps of all kinds, limpets, local wines and desserts.
The meals were an artistic display of everything the island has to offer. For only 1-3 euros we could taste anything. I liked the fish soup with red crab (Sopa de marisco) the most. The air is infused with the scent of freshly prepared foods, tempting visitors to indulge in local delicacies.
Surfing at Famara Beach
Famara Beach, situated on the northwestern coast of Lanzarote is a surfer’s haven.
When we googled which beach is suitable for beginners, Famara beach won. With its expansive stretch of golden sand and consistently powerful waves, Famara provides an ideal setting for those seeking the thrill of the surf.
Surrounded by the dramatic cliffs of the Famara Massif you will find peace while watching the surfers. My husband rented a surfboard for 2 hours for 20 EUR and frolicked in the waves of the Atlantic. On the beach you will find many groups trained by professionals. You can also pay for surfing lessons.
Later in the evening we enjoyed a delicious dinner at a fish restaurant on the beach. We tried the fish of the day, the tuna steak and the traditional small Canarian potatoes papas arrugadas.
Top things to visit in Lanzarote
We visited another of César Manrique’s architectural pieces the very next day. They are nearby and it is advisable to visit them in this order.
Jardín de Cactus – Cacti Wonderland by César Manrique
Even before the opening, queues formed in the Jardín de Cactus. It is another photogenic place for lovers of diverse flora. The island offers fantastic climatic conditions for cacti, you can find them in every front garden. Nestled within a former quarry, the garden showcases over 4,500 species of cacti from around the world. You will also find a typical ancient windmill here.
Jameos del Agua – Cultural Oasis Below Earth’s Surface
After visiting the garden, we headed to Jameos del Agua. It is an underground world shaped by nature and transformed by César Manrique into a unique cultural space. Subterranean marvel was formed by the collapse of a volcanic tube. The tunnel goes from the Vukan to the Atlantic ocean. It is formed by an interwoven lava tube, which in depth during volcanic activity created underground spaces like caves.
The Jameos del Agua complex is the integration of art, nature, and entertainment- restaurant and auditorium. Visitors can explore this magical environment, where a natural lagoon and pool host a species of tiny, blind albino crabs, unique to the island.
Cueva de los Verdes – The cave beneath the Volcanic Surface
This underground cave system unveils a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers, revealing the raw beauty of the island’s geology. What makes Cueva de los Verdes truly unique is its seamless integration into the art world, with lighting designed by César Manrique enhancing the cave’s natural features. Formed by ancient volcanic activity created a cave with perfect acoustics especially for concerts.
Best places to go in Lanzarote
Mirador del Famara
The headline of our trip was Mirador del Famara. Mirador means a view in translation. This viewpoint is situated on the top of the cliffs above the Famara beaches. With our 2-wheel drive car, it was quite difficult to climb the hill, but it was done. And it was worth it. We arrived just before sunset. Sun sank into the sea for a long time and formed magical orange-pink formations in the sky.
The cliffs are so high that you can’t hear the strong surf on the beach, so you feel like you’re in a silent movie. It was a romantic experience. If you want to propose to your love, this is the right place!
Caldera Blanca Hike
One of the best things to do in Lanzarote in december is trekking. The trek leads you to the heart of a volcanic caldera – volcanic crater. The hike offers panoramic views of the island. The trail winds through lava fields, revealing the raw beauty of the island.
As hikers ascend the caldera rim, they are rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes and of the Atlantic Ocean. The terrain, shaped by millennia of volcanic activity, adds an element of challenge to the hike.
The trek starts at the parking lot below the crater. Expect that it will take you 3.5 – 4 hours. It is not a physically demanding hike, we also met older couples. The road first leads through lava fields on a plain. Then he will take you to the smaller crater of the neighbouring extinct volcano Montana Caldereta.
Then the road splits. Either you go to the top of the rim of the crater from the bottom, or you turn left before the lava mountain and hike a short section directly to the rim. We chose the second version. It was simpler and more pleasant. Then you can take a hike on the edge of the crater with beautiful views of the surrounding national park Timanfaya.
It was an incredible experience and I would like to repeat it.
The bay of El Golfo
In the small village at the coast of Lanzarote there is a lake called Charco Verde.The lagoon is unique for its emerald-green colour. It is a result of the combination of the mineral content in the water and the algae living in it.
The bay of El Golfo is unique for a green lagoon in the middle of a black sand beach in close connection with the ocean.
The village is very nice and we recommend stopping there for a coffee.
Playa Blanca
Then we visited the island’s most famous resort town, Playa Blanca. We were surprised by the built-up plots of land with tourist attractions. The beach and the city itself did not charm us personally. The town is interspersed with various expensive restaurants, it does not seem traditional at all like the rest of the island. The beach is full of sunbeds and umbrellas. This is not a vacation for me. From the whole island, Playa Blanca seemed to us to be the only dirty town.
However, it is a nice place for families with small children. The water here is shallow and warmer and there are no big waves.
Punta Mujeres
Punta Mujeres, a coastal village is known for its picturesque setting and authentic Canarian atmosphere. The village is characterised by its traditional white-washed houses, fishing boats lining the shore, and natural rock pools carved by the Atlantic waves.
One of Punta Mujeres’ highlights is the “Piscinas Naturales,” or natural rock pools, where visitors can take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters. The village also boasts a scenic promenade along the coastline heading to Puerto Calero. It was a nice walk on a cliff with beautiful views.
Chilling at the Beach
We chose the last day to relax on the beach. Some days can be quite windy in the Canary Islands. I therefore recommend finding a day of the week when the weather will be calm and you can enjoy doing nothing on the beach.
I also have a secret tip for you about the most beautiful beach we visited, it was magical- Caleta del Mojón Blanco.
You won’t find any merchants, showers or toilets here, but you will find incredible peace here.