Lanzarote

Lanzarote, one of Spain’s seven Canary Islands, combines sun-drenched beaches with a chance to climb into the crater of an extinct volcano, eat lunch barbecued over a live volcanic vent and visit exciting attractions designed by one of Spain’s foremost modern artists. Europeans escape winter on this sunny island 90 miles off the Moroccan coast, despite its contorted fields of black lava and volcanic cones that give it a lunar landscape. Along with vineyards that produce a world-class wine, Lanzarote was blessed by island-born artist Caesar Manrique, who returned to practice his belief that tourism should be based in the island’s natural ...

Lanzarote, one of Spain’s seven Canary Islands, combines sun-drenched beaches with a chance to climb into the crater of an extinct volcano, eat lunch barbecued over a live volcanic vent and visit exciting attractions designed by one of Spain’s foremost modern artists. Europeans escape winter on this sunny island 90 miles off the Moroccan coast, despite its contorted fields of black lava and volcanic cones that give it a lunar landscape. Along with vineyards that produce a world-class wine, Lanzarote was blessed by island-born artist Caesar Manrique, who returned to practice his belief that tourism should be based in the island’s natural beauty, history and traditions. All of Lanzarote’s major attractions bear his imprint, and built into the caves and sinkholes of the lava fields are his seven manmade attractions that rival nature’s: gardens, swimming pools, an auditorium and his own stunning home. Along with using the natural features, Manrique transformed unused buildings into brilliant spaces for restaurants, museums and art galleries. Thanks to his foresight and talent, this barren island is as much a Mecca for art lovers as it is a haven for sun-worshipers. A marine reserve in the clear waters off northern Lanzarote offers some Europe’s best diving.

About the Expert

Barbara Radcliffe Rogers has written or coauthored more than 30 guidebooks, including The Portugal Traveler, Drive Around Portugal, City Spots Munich, City Spots Helsinki, City Spots Stockholm, Eating New England, and the Maine section of Thomas Cook's Independent Traveller USA.