October 20th, 2009
Winter Holidays In Lanzarote
After yet another abysmal summer hundreds of thousands of sun starved British tourists will be jetting away to warmer climes this winter. And whilst the current economic climate my well reduce demand for exotic and expensive holidays in the Caribbean and the Far East there are still plenty of reliable, good value options closer to home.
The seven Spanish owned Canary Islands are located just off the coast of Morocco – requiring just a four hour flight from the UK. And offer great weather all year round, along with some fantastic beaches and high standards of accommodation. Allied with all of the familiarity of a Spanish holiday destination.
This year, flights to Lanzarote have become cheaper than ever before. As some of the biggest guns in the low cost airline industry have started to compete on this route. With Ryanair offering 16 new services to the island from airports across the UK – with headline returns starting from as little as £9.99.
And easyJet weighing in with increased services and reduced ticket prices too.
All of which makes this winter an ideal time to explore this fascinating, volcanic island.
Worried about the crowds and the full English breakfast brigade? There´s no need to be. As whilst some of the larger islands such as Gran Canaria and Tenerife have earned something of a reputation as mass market, package holiday destinations over the years Lanzarote remains largely unspoiled.
For example, visitors will find that there are no high rise buildings or advertising hoardings blotting the landscape. These were outlawed in the 1970´s – thanks to the campaigning efforts of a local artist called César Manrique. Who fought against the worst excesses of over development.
And today tourism is concentrated in just three, well contained resorts; Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca. With the latter proving to be the best choice for winter sun seekers, as it is located at the southern toe of the island – delivering the best microclimate on Lanzarote.
If that wasn´t enough, Playa Blanca is also home to the best beaches on the island too. Such as the five sandy coves which are collectively known as Playas de Papagayo. An all natural beach lover’s paradise located just fifteen minutes from the resort centre.
In terms of accommodation tourists can choose from a large selection of Lanzarote villas and hotels. The most impressive of which is the luxurious Gran Melia Volcan. One of only three five star establishments on the island which is located right next to the upmarket Rubicon Marina. Which provides mooring for luxury yachts from around the world.
