Lanzarote is a Spanish island that lies at the eastern end of the Canary Island chain in the Atlantic Ocean. Created nearly 35 million years ago from volcanic eruptions, Lanzarote is the fourth largest island in the chain. Only two industries exist on this Spanish isle; agriculture and tourism, the latter being the main economic factor for over 40 years. The question you may then ask is why is Lanzarote popular with tourists?

Much of the appeal has to do with the wonderful sights to absorb on the island. One such sight is a testament to Lanzarote’s volcanic past known as the Cueva de los Verdes. 3,000 years ago, a volcano erupted, creating a lava stream that flowed over the land. As the flow hardened and sections collapsed, a tube formed a sort of cave from the volcanic rock. Adding to the already natural beauty of the cave are sections containing seawater that has found its way inside. Nestled inside the colorful rock walls is even a concert hall capable of holding about 500 people.

Also adding to Lanzarote’s appeal to tourists is its capital city, Arrecife. Meaning “reef” in Spanish, Arrecife garners its name from the protective rocks lining the sparkling beach located in town. Sunbathers and swimmers alike gaze at the rocky backdrop in a quiet comfort while they enjoy their day at the beach. A visit to the harbor places visitors at the foot of the Gran Hotel Arrecife, which happens to be the tallest building anywhere in the Canary Islands. The awe inspiring Spanish architecture of the churches provides a glimpse of the region’s history and culture. This history is also brilliantly evident in the walls of the Castle of San Gabriel. Off Arrecife’s coast, vacationers will encounter the wondrous and somewhat ominous wreck of a ship that was beached years ago.

In the southwestern region of Lanzarote is situated the Timanfaya National Park. Receiving its name from Timanfaya, the active volcano located there, the park is a designated biosphere reserve decreed by UNESCO. Visitation is strictly regulated, but that does not detract from the mountainous beauty and interesting vegetation and wildlife. Many visitors particularly enjoy the steam geyser that spews forth from the hot ground resulting from the volcano.

The spectacular landscape and sandy beaches account for much of Lanzarote’s allure. The number of visitors has only increased over the last four decades, and the beauty of the island is likely to continue the trend.

Now Try – Holidays Lanzarote