If you are looking for an unusual vacation that offers other-world landscaping with a mixture of artistry, sophistication, and primitive bartering thrown in, a trip to experience Lanzarote holiday attractions might be the ideal solution. This fascinating little island, the most eastern and fourth largest of the Spanish Canary Islands, sits off the coast off northwest Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. Created by the breaking apart of the African and American continental plates, Lanzarote has been the site of the world's longest lasting volcanic eruption, continuing for almost 6 six years back in the 1730s. With ¼ of the island covered in lava, the island bears the scars of that catastrophe to this day; however, tourists from around the world come now to marvel at the geology of a surface most closely resembling that of the moon.
A visit to Timanfaya National Park is definitely a must if you want to see Fire Mountain, the origin of the massive volcanic eruption. Sitting in the southwest part of the island, the Park offers fantastic sunsets and impressive ethereal landscapes. You can explore by camel back or in the comfort of modern coach transportation. Choosing the 16 km chartered bus trip is a great way to absorb the total effects of the volcano on the geography of the land. Sturdy footwear and warm jackets are recommended for a comfortable sight-seeing experience.
With a population of only about 140,000, of which 75% are Spanish, Lanzarote may not be a big or heavily populated island, but the once-capital of Teguise comes alive every Sunday of the year. Tourists love to wander through the hundreds of stalls lining the cobbled streets and in the main square. The Teguise Market offers the atmosphere of a typical Spanish village backed by 500 years of history. Holiday gifts and souvenirs are plentiful at excellent prices. You can find everything from handbags to hair-braiding, from tablecloths to pottery, and you can even enjoy the social aspect of haggling over prices. Local entertainers playing pan pipes usually set up in the local square. Food is abundant too. You can order a proper English breakfast with fresh orange juice and just-cooked doughnuts, or you can try some of the local specialties. Numerous cafes and bars sprinkled throughout the market offer cool places to relax and soak in the local color. Choose to arrive by rental car or bus as taxis are expensive for this distance.
Most of the points of interest that you will experience during your Lanzarote holidays have one man standing in the shadows of their creation. Cesar Manrique, a locally-born artist and architect became a powerful and persuasive advocate for preserving the culture and uniqueness of this island during his lifetime. It was he who persuaded locals to limit the height of any new building to that of a palm tree. Gaudy high-rises do not exist here, thanks to his early intervention. After his death a foundation in his name was set up Tara de Tahiche at his former dream home. Situating it in the middle of a lava field, Manrique actually used naturally formed volcanic bubbles to create unique architectural living spaces. Above the subterranean rooms are levels constructed of traditional Lanzarote materials and architecture. This beautiful home includes lovely garden areas, a café, and a gift shop as well as samples of Manrique's incredible artistry.
You'll find more of Manrique's creative touch at the Cactus Gardens or "Jardin de Cactus." Over 10,000 plants representing more than 1400 species have been collected and displayed here by botanist Estanislao Gonzales Ferrer. This was Manrique's last finished work, spanning almost 20 years. You won't miss the giant green metallic sculpture, including spikes, which welcome visitors to the main entrance. The restored windmill and strange metal sculptures that surround the freshwater lake create a stark beauty unlike any other. A café and a gift shop complete the visit.
For a breath-taking view from a natural cliff 479 meters high, you must visit the northern end of the island. The Mirador Del Rio allows you to look out to the archaic island of La Graciosa. This special site was also created by Manrique in 1974, and you can still see his vision in the hidden balustrade café and bar area that have been integrated into the lava rock formations. This ecological wonder was once considered to be one of the "most important new buildings in the world."
The island of Lanzarote may be small by world standards, but it offers big lifetime experiences for those who want something a little less commercialized, a place that has built on its own unique volcanic history. You have a standing invitation to come and share, to be present in the richness of the past at Lanzarote.
Amy Scott has over 15 years experience in the travel industry. She loves the Mediterranean and North Africa and especially likes to write about holidays to Majorca and Sharm El Sheik.
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