10 Reasons Why Lanzarote Is Definitely Not ‘Lanza-Grotty’

Lanzarote may have gained a reputation for being a bit grotty. Some believe that the beaches are all sprinkled with washed-up rubbish and covered with tourists lazing on the beach, slowly turning a delightful shade of lobster… But look outside the tourist resorts and beyond the Irish bars, and you'll find a peaceful island with stunning natural scenery and plenty of traditional family-run tapas restaurants. Here's why you should give 'Lanza-Grotty' a try this summer...    

1. It’s the perfect island for sports-lovers and fitness freaks.

  

2. There are cyclists everywhere and it’s no wonder – there are miles and miles of smooth road, and lots of beautiful volcano-pocked scenery to look at as you go.

3. There are some cracking surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing spots – reef and beach breaks alike – and all within an hour’s drive (because everything is within an hour’s drive on this tiny island).

4. There is an excessive amount of wind – so put it to good use and go hand gliding or paragliding.

5. César Manrique turned the island into a hub of art, tradition and culture.

Sadly, he died in 1992 - but he's left behind a vision for Lanzarote based on art and nature, and a tourism model that works in sync with the environment, rather than against it. Manrique's house and the Cesar Manrique Foundation art gallery are both well worth a visit.

    

6. The natural landscape will take your breath away – forget that image of the litter-strewn beaches in the south of the island.

7. The architecture is all beautifully white-washed.

8. The food is authentic and delicious - when you know where to look for it. Try La Cantina or Ikarus which are both in Teguise.

9. The wine is delicious and the grapes are grown out of volcanic ashes.

    

10. Teguise market - stock up on Aloe Vera products, leathers, traditional Canarian foods, and hand-woven baskets.

 

If this article has changed your mind about this magical little volcanic island, then have a look at our villas in Lanzarote.