Some holidays are lovely at the time and then become distant memories. Others leave such an impression that you find yourself looking at flights back before you’ve even unpacked your suitcase. For us, Lanzarote falls firmly into the second category.
We first visited the island in 2014, looking for a bit of winter sun. At the time, we had no idea it would become one of our favourite destinations and somewhere we would return to time and time again.
Our first stay was at Hotel Costa Calero in Puerto Calero and I’ll never forget arriving there. As we pulled up outside, I looked across at Paul and his face was an absolute picture. The exterior of the hotel wasn’t quite what he’d been picturing (even though I’d shown him countless pictures) and I could tell he was confused looking at this square concrete building that didn’t really scream holiday resort. Thankfully, those doubts lasted all of about five minutes and once inside the hotel, he saw the lovely pools, spacious grounds and fantastic views. His expression changed completely, and we’ve laughed about that first impression ever since. The hotel has become a firm favourite and we have seen many improvements and renovations over the years, which only makes it even better.
I don’t have a photo of the outside of the hotel but these are the views from inside.
Puerto Calero quickly became one of our favourite spots on the island. The marina has a calm, sophisticated feel without ever feeling stuffy. Mornings are peaceful, evenings are relaxed and there’s something very easy about sitting by the waterfront watching the boats come and go while enjoying a drink or a meal. It’s the sort of place where you instantly slow down. One of the things we particularly like about Puerto Calero is its location. If you’re looking for lively bars, lots of restaurants and a busier atmosphere, Puerto del Carmen is only a couple of miles away. You can get a taxi (car or water) or if you’re feeling energetic it’s about a 45 – 60 minute walk across the coastal cliff path, just don’t attempt it in your flip flops 🩴😄. You can enjoy the buzz and then retreat back to the peace and quiet of the marina afterwards. For us, it’s the perfect balance.
Over the years we’ve also spent several holidays in Playa Blanca, staying at both the H10 Timanfaya Palace and Natura Palace (both adults only). We have also rented a villa on the island when we travelled with family. If someone asked us whether we prefer Puerto Calero or Playa Blanca, we’d genuinely struggle to answer because we love them both for completely different reasons. Puerto Calero is where we go when we want total relaxation, but Playa Blanca offers a little more activity, with its beautiful promenade, lovely beaches, restaurants and plenty of places to wander in the evenings.
One of the things that struck us on our first visit was how different Lanzarote looked from anywhere else we’d been. As you drive across the island it can feel almost lunar. Endless black volcanic rock stretches across the landscape, broken up by whitewashed villages and the occasional splash of green. It’s rugged, dramatic and unlike anywhere else but there is something beautiful about it.
The coastline is every bit as impressive. Playa Blanca is home to some of our favourite beaches, including Playa Dorada, where calm waters make it ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. The famous Papagayo beaches are also worth visiting, with crystal-clear water and stunning natural surroundings. Just be aware that there is very little shade at Papagayo and although Lanzarote’s breeze can sometimes make the heat feel less intense, the sun remains extremely strong.
Lanzarote has a strange way of making you stop and stare. One minute you’re looking at water so clear it could be the Caribbean and half an hour later you’re standing in a landscape that looks more like Mars.
Over the last twelve years, we’ve discovered many favourite places to eat, visit, and explore across Lanzarote. There are far too many to mention individually, but it’s fair to say that the island offers excellent dining options for every budget, along with a wide variety of activities and day trips to suit everyone.
Two places we haven’t actually stayed in Lanzarote are Costa Teguise and Arrecife, the island’s capital, but we’ve spent enough time in both to know they’re well worth a visit.
We’ve visited Teguise for its famous Sunday market. The historic streets come alive with stalls, local crafts and food, creating a fantastic atmosphere throughout the town. Even if shopping isn’t really your thing, it’s worth going just to wander through one of Lanzarote’s most attractive and historic locations. The only downside is that everyone else seems to have the same idea, so be prepared for the crowds!
We’ve also had the chance to explore Arrecife during a cruise stop and were surprised by how much we enjoyed it. Like the rest of Lanzarote, it has its own unique charm. While we were there, we visited the Arrecife Gran Hotel, home to the island’s only high rise building. The views from the top are absolutely spectacular, offering a panoramic perspective across the coastline to the volcanic landscapes beyond. It’s definitely worth popping in for a drink if you’re visiting the capital.
What we love most about Lanzarote is how easy it is to enjoy. It manages to combine natural beauty, mostly reliable sunshine and a wonderfully laid back atmosphere in a way that very few destinations can.
Twelve years on from that first visit we still find ourselves returning whenever we get the chance. Whether we’re staying in Puerto Calero, relaxing in Playa Blanca or visiting on a cruise stop, Lanzarote never disappoints.
Would we return to Lanzarote?
Absolutely. In fact, we’re already booked 💙
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