Lanzarote Travel Guide
Travel guide to Lanzarote, Spain with comprehensive information about events, shopping, and major Lanzarote sporting events to help you enjoy your visit more.
Lanzarote Overview
Lanzarote is the easternmost of the Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa. The island itself is formed primarily from lava, which has a striking appearance when contrasted with the glorious white sandy beaches and makes a real change for visitors to the island.
The island has a long history dating back around 3,000 years. Its location meant it was on the main sailing routes so became a very popular stop off point. This explains why a lot of the buildings and ruins that are here are quite well fortified. There was a constant threat from passing ships in what at that time was a very politically unstable world.
Tourism is the main economy for the area now, with may thousands of people flocking here during the summer months primarily, although the mild winter climate does attract a number of people here when they can experience a more real Lanzarote.
One thing that is noticed immediately by anyone coming here is the absence of high rise buildings. This is because the city council banned them, along with billboard advertising. The decision was made to maintain a lot of the original city's charm and personality, and it was felt that the high rise hotel complexes that were popular at the time in Spain and elsewhere would have a detrimental affect on the area.
Top Lanzarote Attractions
Santa Barbara Castle is a great place to visit, situated as it is a the top of Montanas de Guanapay one of the city's nearby mountains. Built originally as a watchtower it became a fort in 1588. It now stands as a museum and historical monument. The museum takes up the story of the people of the Canary Islands, particularly those who went to seek pastures new, and the letters, photographs and postcards that are kept here are poignant reminders of such difficult times.
Shopping in Lanzarote
Lanzarote offers a lot for the visiting shopper, not least a duty free tax status that comes as a welcome change. There is a wide variety of goods on offer from the traditional touristy items through to electrical goods and high end fashion items, all of which are well priced. Caution must be advised though on the electrical goods to ensure that everything is as it seems.
Lanzarote Sporting Events
As an island in a lovely location it is no surprise to find water sports topping the list of activities here. Windsurfing is especially popular here thanks to the prevailing winds of the area. The other main water sports enjoyed are diving, fishing and jet skiing.
