Lanzarote is the most easterly of the Canary Islands. It is an island of stark contrasts, from its white, sandy beaches, to its barren, almost lunar like landscapes. This only serves, however, to increase the number of activities in which it is possible to engage and potentially makes the all round holiday experience more varied. Visitors to Lanzarote should for this reason consider the freedom to be obtained by renting their own apartment, bungalow or villa on the island, especially as this is also an extremely cost effective practise.

Puerto del Carmen is the most popular resort and is perfectly suited to many island activities. Rich with budget apartments for rental, and boasting the largest beach on the island, it is ideal for sun worshippers and its many clubs and bars give it a very lively nightlife. Its old town is famous for its restaurants and truly international cuisine. Costa Teguise is slightly more laid back, though still with many expected resort attractions. It is home to what was until recently Lanzarote’s only golf course and has a dedicated water park and aquarium to make possible a whole host of family fun. The former fishing village of Playa Blanca, in the far south of the island, is comprised largely of villas and bungalows, with a long promenade. This resort is close to the best beaches on Lanzarote and also has its own marina.

Car hire is essential in order to see the best of Lanzarote. The Timanfaya National Park provides a feast of volcanic scenery. Although visitors are not allowed entry to the park unescorted, a coach tour and guided walks are available. Lunch can be eaten at the park’s restaurant, cooked on geothermal stoves from the incredible heat present just underground. The Castillo de San Gabriel is a sixteenth century castle, rebuilt after being destroyed by pirates on the East Coast of the island. It is now an archaeological museum. The Green Caves in the north of the island are underground and were formed by volcanic activity. They include a tunnel several miles long, though only part of this is open to the public.

Whatever your tastes and energy levels, you are likely to find plenty to do on Lanzarote. The most energetic may wish to go surfing or hang-gliding, particularly at the spectacular Playa Famara, a long beach in the shadow of high cliffs. Swimmers here should beware, however, of the very strong currents. Golf is a sport which is presently being greatly developed in Lanzarote but golfers may be keen to try out the new course at Puerto del Carmen. For those looking for a more relaxing time, a leisurely tour of the La Geria, Lanzarote’s wine growing region, and a sampling of the products may be in order, or time can simply be spent relaxing on the beach or in one of the popular bars, many of which even have Sky Sports, showing live British football and other events.