Explore The Real Lanzarote
Lanzarote has been welcoming foreign tourists ever since the package holiday industry first started up in the early 1970´s. Proving popular thanks to a classic combination of breathtaking beaches and incredible weather. However Lanzarote can offer visitors much more than just sand and sun alone. Thanks to the fact that development here is carefully controlled – leaving the bulk of the island largely untouched.
Just like on Tenerife and Gran Canaria there is a profound north south divide on Lanzarote when it comes to the climate and subsequent tourist development. With the south boasting better weather as a result of the profound microclimate here. Whilst the north is less developed and preferred by the locals as a result.
Over the last ten years package holiday makers have been augmented by independent travellers. As a result of the growth of budget airlines and the internet. Which has enabled tourists to book their own travel and accommodation online. As a result this trend has in turn increased demand for apartments and villas in Lanzarote. Which are now booked in preference to hotels and all inclusive holiday deals. With many British tourists booking holiday villas in Playa Blanca – the islands fastest growing resort – direct with the owners.Information about villas in Playa Blanca can be found here
Away from the main holiday resorts though there lies an island full of surprises and attractions. Many of which lie well off the beaten track. So visitors are well advised to hire a car and explore. Especially in the north which is still widely regarded as the true heart of the island.
Head for the pretty village of Haria to start connecting with the real Lanzarote. This pueblo has been described by the eminent Canarian author Alberto Vazquez as the prettiest village on the island if not the world. Which is probably a bit of an exaggeration – but not that wide of the truth. As Haria is a real green oasis on an island that is otherwise largely devoid of flora and fauna. Thanks to very low rainfall and a dry and arid climate. In Haria villagers started to plant palm trees for every new born baby centuries ago. And today their valley is aptly known as the Valley of 1000 Palms, with countless Canarian palms creating a striking sight.
From Haria it is just a short drive to the coastal village of Arrieta. Which is home to one of the few beaches on this side of Lanzarote to have escaped development. Soak up the great views and the sun here from one of the restaurants that are located right on the sand.
