Rock Star - Volcanic Lanzarote
Lanzarote is located just seventy miles away from the coast of West Africa. Making it the most easterly of the seven islands in the Canary Islands chain. On a similar line of latitude to parts of Florida, Mexico and the Bahamas.
As you would expect from an island located in such close proximity to Africa Lanzarote enjoys a very dry climate – characterised by exceptionally low rainfall. Allied with temperatures that don’t often drop much below 20c – whatever the time of year. Creating the perfect environment for a year round holiday destination.
The UK is Lanzarote´s largest market place and the island is especially popular with British tourists. Who take advantage of cheap flights to Lanzarote to flock to this small speck of Spain in serious numbers. This year alone for example over 800,000 British tourists are expected to enjoy a holiday on the island. Along with around 200,000 visitors from the Irish Republic.
Over the course of its history Lanzarote has enjoyed a number of unusual appellations. In Phoenician times, for example, lichen called Orchilla was grown in northern regions of the island. In areas such as Famara and Haria. From which these traders extracted a purple dye – earning Lanzarote the title of the Purple Island. Whilst in ancient times the island – along with the other Canary Islands - was thought to be part of the lost continent of Atlantis.
Today Lanzarote is best known as the Island of Fire though. Thanks to the fact that around one quarter of the land here was submerged by a sea of molten lava, as Lanzarote was subjected to a terrifying six year long volcanic eruption. Which started in 1730. Driving many islanders to flee and seek new lives abroad.
Today, the islands volcanic region – located in the Timanfaya National Park – is by far and away the biggest tourist draw on Lanzarote. With over one million visitors enjoying the moon like lava scape left in the wake of the volcanic eruptions. Elsewhere on the island the Jameos del Agua, another major tourist draw, has also been created from the remnants of volcanic activity. Thanks to the efforts of the island born artist and architect Cesar Manrique.
It’s not just the scenery that attracts tourists in such numbers though. As there are a number of high quality hotels in Lanzarote, such as the Gran Melia Salinas in Costa Teguise. As well as a wide choice of holiday apartments and villas located across the island. Creating an ample choice of accommodation for visitors.
For great deals on Lanzarote hotels and Lanzarote property for sale visit the Lanzarote tourist information website.