The hidden side of Lanzarote

Lanzarote has perhaps been considered as a classic destination for Brits abroad; think of it and what probably springs to mind is a stretch of Irish bars, cafes offering the staple burger and chips… the list goes on.

You're wrong.

Let's wipe the slate clean. Lanzarote lies 80 miles off the coast of Africa and offers tourists an array of natural splendour. Hunt down the full English breakfasts at your peril, for this, the fourth largest Canary Island has much to be explored.

Now time to answer the burning questions. Sun-seekers need not be let down, as Lanzarote enjoys 3,000 hours of annual sunshine, with an average yearly temperature of 24 degrees C.

Puerto del Carmen is the island's busiest resort, boasting a variety of seafood restaurants for those looking to branch out beyond the bacon sarnie. The Hotel San Antonio – a four star resort – is perfectly located. Just ten minutes from Arrecife Airport, it spans along the seafront, giving a lucky few visitors an unadulterated view over the ocean. Rooms are well-equipped, as is the buffet.

One thing that can be said of the San Antonio is its atmosphere. Everyone seems to be having a great time – and that's what a holiday is all about, right?

For those after a more child-friendly resort, Los Zocos ticks all the boxes. With virtually every activity imaginable on offer, the hotel is vast and vibrant. Many customers enjoy the all-inclusive experience, with some locals even travelling to the hotel to sample its varied cuisine. Rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, giving a feel of a home from home - just with better weather.

What is refreshing about Lanzarote is how understated it is. The government has imposed strict planning rules on the island, meaning it is not littered with high-rise buildings and over-imposing billboards. Typical perceptions of a holiday destination are turned on their head by Lanzarote, which just adds to its intrigue.

The people here are proud of their island, keen to show what it has to offer. Most of its top tourist attractions make the most of what this volcanic island has created organically over hundreds of years, again, making it a welcomed break from typical tourist activities.

Take Timanfaya National Park as an example. Its main attraction – the Montanas del Fuego, or Fire Mountains – present a lunar landscape unrivalled by anything I have ever seen. The area stretches over 50 km sq, with the vibrant colours of volcanic rocks starkly contrasted against the blackened landscape.

Just a 20 minute ferry ride away is Fuerteventura. It's bigger than Lanzarote, yet has a certain charm about it; there seems to be fewer tourists, fewer Brit bars, yet many more beaches.

Well worth a visit is Casa Santa Maria, a quaint restaurant set in a 16th century farmhouse. Nestling in the hills opposite in the town of Betancuria, this traditional Canarian restaurant doesn't disappoint. With a variety of locally-sourced fish and goat, the menu is as delicious as it is unconventional. It's not for the fans of good old British grub, but who wants that on holiday?

Tourist attractions on the island are likewise as impressive. It is difficult to recall anywhere else when one minute you can be on a white sandy beach, the next looking over a dormant volcano, then feeling so liberated among vast stretches of sand dunes…

Visiting a salt museum may seem bizarre on even the most educational of holidays, but the Museo de la Sal has something quite endearing about it. As one of the area's main exports, tourists can get to grips with how it salt is sourced. It may not be one for the kids, but it's interesting nonetheless.

The same can be said for the Mueso de la Pesca Tradicional (or the Museum of Traditional Fishing for those of us less fluent), another intriguing insight into how this island earns its keep.

Accommodation on Fuerteventura is as varied as its attractions. Dunas Alisios Playa is perfect for families, offering a range of entertainment for those who like to get involved and relaxation areas for those who would rather keep themselves to themselves.

Just around the corner Atlantis Fuerteventura Resort boasts well-landscaped surroundings and, more importantly, its own spa area.

One thing that can be said of the Canary Islands - they stay true to their roots. If you want to avoid excessively touristy areas, it can be done. Locals are keen for visitors to taste their cuisine, to engage with their lifestyle ... this is refreshing for somewhere which is generally considered as a British holiday hotspot.

Still, for those without a sense of wanderlust, it has everything a holiday destination needs. It Spanish influences are apparent, yet it maintains an identity of its own.

As for the burger and chips, I'd look elsewhere.

More Information

Guests looking to visit Lanzarote can find deals on a wide range of hotels, apartments and self-catering accommodation with AlphaRooms.

Offers include half board accommodation in San Antonio during December for £66.56 per person per night, while self-catering apartments in Los Zocos can be had for £32.82 per person per night.

Over on Fuerteventura, Atlantis Fuerteventura offers accommodation for £51.88 per person per night, all inclusive in December, while guests will pay £27.54 per person per night in Dunas Alisios Playa for self-catering.

Direct flights from Manchester to Alicante can also be booked on the site and start from as little as £145.38 per person this December.

Emma Furze