But it really is a misnomer, as the island is about the furthest you can get from grotty, particularly in comparison with other holiday destinations. For example, there are very few other places that have been so dramatically influenced by one person, who happened to be a renowned artist.

Island born architect, painter and sculptor César Manrique was the person who really put Lanzarote on the map. After his return from New York in the late 1960’s he was able to help shape the island’s tourist development and thus avoided many of the mistakes made elsewhere.

This included banning the construction of high-rise buildings, with anything over three storeys forbidden. It also meant an absence of billboards covered in advertising, which not only preserves the landscape but also reduces the commercialisation of the local culture.

Visitors to the island often remark on these aspects, which become more apparent as they explore the island’s interior. Car hire in Lanzarote is one of the most affordable ways to see all there is to see and has the added bonus of giving holidaymakers a degree of freedom they don’t experience simply lying next to the pool.

Being mobile is more of a natural choice for visitors who decide to take their Lanzarote holidays in a self-contained villa. Not only do they get bags more space and privacy, but there are often a variety of entertainment options on hand for the odd day when you don’t want to go out.

And in terms of relaxation, there can be few things better than lying by the side of a private swimming pool, which virtually come as standard in holiday villas and apartments in Lanzarote. Combined with a fresh fish barbecue and a bottle of the local wine, it is easy to see why holidaymakers enjoy their time on the island.

The fishing industry is not what it used to be, but visitors can still purchase a huge variety of the freshest catch at one of the numerous fishmongers dotted around the island. And the locally produced wines, which are the product of a unique style of viniculture, also deserve to be tried. Dry white Malvasia wine serves as the perfect accompaniment for any meal.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.