As the midwinter blues set in, low-cost flights to the Canary Islands and warmer climates beckon. Deciding to head for the airport is easy; however, choosing which island to visit can be challenging.
Loving Lanzarote
Travel journalist Isabella Noble grew up in Spain and now splits her time between Barcelona and Andalucía. Wildly beautiful Lanzarote has always been her favorite place in the Canary Islands.
A soulless sea-and-sun escape? Think again. For me, Lanzarote evokes everything magical and surprising about the sunny Canaries—an island that overturns stereotypes at every corner but also has its own distinctive, irresistible energy.
Beaches and Natural Wonders
Although Fuerteventura is famous for its beaches, Lanzarote boasts fabulous Famara, a wild, all-natural, golden-white beach stretching 6km beneath cascading volcanic cliffs, making it one of the greatest surf beaches in Europe. The sun-kissed Papagayo beaches in the south near Playa Blanca, part of a pristine nature reserve, reward adventurers with glittering Atlantic waters after thrilling hikes along the cliff-hugging trails.
Moreover, the wonderfully isolated Playa del Risco and the remote Isla Graciosa offer stunning escapes, accessible only by boat, providing an intimate experience with nature. Many locals cherish the natural sea pools in Punta Mujeres, ideal for a refreshing dip.
Architectural Beauty and Artistic Heritage
Unlike many of Spain’s other islands, development on Lanzarote has been kept minimal, featuring only one skyscraper across the island. The rugged volcanic landscape is dotted with whitewashed villages showcasing low-rise buildings with ocean-blue or forest-green shutters, largely attributed to the influential artist and environmental campaigner César Manrique. His spectacular works dominate lagoons, caves, and public spaces on the island, enriching its cultural landscape.
Active Adventures
For those seeking adventure, Lanzarote is a dream for hikers and cyclists, attracting athletes from around the world to train. Scrambling up volcanic calderas in the otherworldly Timanfaya National Park offers breathtaking views, while the wide-open coastline invites water sports enthusiasts for activities like kayaking, paddle-boarding, diving, and windsurfing.
Culinary Delights
Lanzarote’s gastronomic scene is one of the most exciting in the Canaries, featuring fresh island ingredients, traditional recipes, and a splash of innovation. From the elegant El Risco to local favorites like Casa de la Playa, Lanzarote’s restaurants serve up a delightful mix of flavors. Don’t miss out on the glorious Lanzarote wines, grown in mineral-rich volcanic soils, making waves in Spain’s wine scene.
Art and Craftsmanship
Lauded for its artisanal crafts, Lanzarote offers opportunities to explore pottery with local artisans and browse independent galleries in Teguise. Unique hotels inspired by the island’s volcanic landscape add to the creative charm, establishing Lanzarote as a destination full of originality and soul.
All the Feels for Fuerteventura
Helen Ochyra is a London-based travel writer specializing in the Canary Islands. Fuerteventura was the first of the Canaries she visited, creating cherished memories as she returned with her children.
Beaches and Relaxation
When it came to taking my first child on her first vacation, Fuerteventura was an obvious choice. Even Canarios from other islands agree it’s home to the best beaches. The Parque Natural de Jandia features stunning ochre and blond landscapes with miles of golden, Atlantic-washed beaches. I particularly enjoy swimming in the refreshing waters of Morro Jable and taking dirt roads to the wild Playa de Cofete.
Family-Friendly Activities
Fuerteventura is also a fantastic destination for families. The Great Beaches of Corralejo offer expansive sandy areas protected as part of a natural park, allowing visitors to run freely down dunes into the sea.
Hiking and Surfing
Hiking opportunities abound as well, with well-marked trails weaving through volcanic landscapes and leading to ancient craters. La Oliva is an excellent starting point for scenic walks. Additionally, surfers benefit from constant trade winds, with numerous surf schools available to cater to all skill levels.
The Local Culture
Corralejo, my favorite base, offers a genuine town vibe with local children engaging in seaside activities and residents enjoying morning coffee in kiosks. With vibrant local dining options, I often savor freshly grilled fish while soaking in the atmosphere.
Ultimately, for me, Fuerteventura embodies the joy found in an unparalleled escape, making it a no-brainer destination.
This article was first published on Dec 22, 2022, and updated on Dec 11, 2023.
