Lanzarote is far more fun – and far classier – than you probably think
THE WEEKEND: With year-round sun and a large ex-pat community, this Canary Island has unfairly gained a reputation for being overrun with stereotypical ‘Brits Abroad’.
However, breathtaking beaches, a diverse landscape and a new line of luxury resorts have made it an affordable and desirable destination for those yearning for a relaxing getaway.
Former PM David Cameron has praised the island as the perfect place to escape for ‘time to think’, and it’s easy to see why.
WHERE: Situated on the eastern part of the island, around twenty minutes’ drive from Arrecife Airport, Barcelo Teguise Beach has been renovated top-to-bottom to relaunch as an attractive adults-only resort.
Boasting restaurants, luxury spa and swimming pools, you may be tempted to never leave the walls of the hotel. But then, you’d be missing the adjacent Teguise Beach, a dramatic sight which will inspire more than a few social media snaps.
THE ACTIVITIES: While much of the emphasis is on relaxation, there are a variety of activities for both the adventurous and laid back tourist. Quad-biking through the volcanic rock is a slightly bumpy but thrilling experience.
Despite having not driven since the early 2000s, even a novice like me was able to go full throttle through the eye-catching terrain. Be sure not to wear your favourite jeans, however, as you will get dusty.
If that sounds too strenuous, you can wander round the El Grifo Winery. While Lanzarote’s landscape doesn’t seem like the ideal place to grow things, the winding vineyards of this family run company have been around since the 1700s.
A tour of the museum gives an insight into the processes of wine making and some of the history of the island, while the tasting at the end on their relaxing terrace is an elegant way to finish your trip.
THE FOOD: Having established itself as a tourist destination, practically every cuisine imaginable can be found on the island, and Barcelo Teguise Beach boasts a wide range of cuisines within their own restaurants.
It’s worth sampling something a little more native, however. There can’t be many restaurants that are overlooked by a fertility statue, but the restaurant with the Monumento del Campesino proves a surprising highlight. Serving local tapas dishes and regional specialities, it’s a choice for locals as well as visitors.
NEED TO KNOW: Rates at Barcelo Teguise Beach start from £64 per room per night. Price based on two people sharing on a B&B basis.
Visit barceloteguisebeach.com or call +34 928 59 05 51. Monarch flies to Lanzarote from Gatwick and Luton with fares (incl taxes) starting from £69 (£130 return). To book visit monarch.co.uk. For more info on Lanzarote visit turismolanzarote.com/en