09 December 2011
There are plenty of amazing winter sun destinations to choose from around the globe. But in these straitened economic times many tourists are looking for value breaks aboard. A trend which is greatly benefiting Canary Islands such as Lanzarote, which are just a four hour flight from key markets such as the UK and Germany.
Lanzarote is the fourth largest of the Canary Islands and is a real favourite with British tourists who account for about 60% of all visitors here. Many return year after year as they fall in love with the island’s unique volcanic landscape, amazing climate and high standards of accommodation.
Around half of all visitors to the island book Lanzarote villas (1) direct online, thanks to the growth of holiday rental websites on the internet. With websites such as www.holidayvillasinlanzarote.co.uk (2) offering a choice of over 250 different properties to rent, from eco yurts through to top end luxury properties with private swimming pools.
As well as great weather and top quality accommodation Lanzarote also boasts a wide array of things to do and see. The number one attraction on the island is the Timanfaya National Park, home to hundreds of volcanoes that were created by enormous eruptions during the 1730´s, which left about one quarter of the island submerged beneath a carpet of black lava. The volcanoes are all dormant today but visiting this region is thrilling as the scenery is really out of this world.
Lanzarote is also home to numerous pretty little villages, which charm and beguile visitors. Such as Yaiza and Haria, the latter being located within the picturesque Valley of 1000 Palms. There is also plenty of history to the island which is best discovered by touring the ancient former capital of Teguise, the first Spanish settlement in the Canary Islands dating back to the early 15th century.
The island is also well known as the birthplace of the famous artist Cesar Manrique, who not only battled against over development when tourism was taking off but also created some amazing sights such as the Jameos del Agua and the Mirador Del Rio. Arguably his greatest work though is his former home and studio in Tahiche which he built over five bubbles in the surrounding lava flow.
Thanks to the fact that Lanzarote is located off the coast of West Africa it is possible to enjoy holidays here at any time of the year. So make sure Lanzarote is your top choice for winter sun in 2012.
