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Lanzarote, one of the stunning Canary Islands, is an ideal destination to escape the winter blues, even in January. With its mild climate, diverse landscapes, and unique attractions, a week on this volcanic island promises an unforgettable adventure and also that you will forget about the winter season back home. Join me as we embark on a 6-days travel itinerary in Lanzarote to discover the beauty and tranquil month of January on this out of this world island.
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
Our travel experience in Lanzarote started on a Sunday and after pick-ing up our rented car, we headed over to our hotel. There were 23 degrees in Lanzarote, as compared to -5 at home, so we were beyond happy that we managed to escape winter. Hotels have amazing prices during January, as the island has far more less tourists than in other months of the year. Therefore, for our 1 week stay in Lanzarote we choose an adult-only accommodation - Radisson Blu Resort, a luxury 4* resort which offers amazing views from the rooms over the ocean, 2 restaurants and 4 pools and an overall high quality of services. Moreover, another reason why i strongly recommend this hotel, is that the way it is build - in a "U-form" protects the pool areas from the wind, so you will be able to sunbath even on windy days, because you will not really feel it.
Day 2: Discover Timanfaya National Park
We started our exploration of Lanzarote with a visit to Timanfaya National Park, a surreal landscape shaped by volcanic eruptions. Took a guided tour through the Martian-like terrain, marveling at the colorful craters, lava fields, and geothermal demonstrations. The entrance to the park costed us €12/ pers. (as per 2024) .
TIP! Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a meal cooked using natural volcanic heat at El Diablo restaurant.
Restaurante El Diablo is one of the most unique places to eat, not only in Lanzarote but anywhere. At this restaurant at Timanfaya National Park, you can eat dishes cooked geothermally, and visitors from all over come here to witness these intriguing cooking methods.
Day 3: Delve into César Manrique's Legacy
On our 3rd day, we decided to deep dive into the local culture, and discover the artistic vision of César Manrique, Lanzarote's most celebrated artist and architect. We visited his former home, now the César Manrique Foundation and admired his unique blend of art and nature. Explore other Manrique-designed attractions, such as Jameos del Agua and Mirador del Río, which seamlessly integrate with the island's natural beauty.
Jameos del Agua. The entrance to this attraction costed us €15/pers. (as per 2024). The place is a unique volcanic tunnel & caverns featuring an underground concert hall, restaurant & salt lake. Personally, even though i read in a lot of places that this is one of the top attractions of Lanzarote, I was not very impressed by it and I cannot really say i recommend it. #notrecommended
Mirador del Río - is one of the most unique architectural creations by César Manrique. It is a place located high up on the Risco de Famara escarpment, at an altitude of 474 metres, in the northernmost part of the island and offers one of Lanzarote’s most spectacular panoramic views.
Day 4: Relax on Lanzarote's Beaches
Our 4th day in Lanzarote was all about relaxation, living the moment and being appreciative for our days here. We spend a leisurely day soaking up the sun on Lanzarote's picturesque beaches. We visited 3 beaches: Playa Blanca, Papagayo, and Famara - which were recommended to us as being among the island's most stunning stretches of sand. We sunbathed, laughed, meditated, i read my favourite book and we completely forgot that at home, the cold winter weather was a reality.
TIP! Pack a picnic and enjoy a day of relaxation by the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Day 5: The first european Underwater Museum
The Underwater Museum of Lanzarote, known as Museo Atlántico, is a unique and innovative attraction located off the coast of Playa Blanca. Opened in 2016, it is the first underwater museum in Europe and was created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor. If you want to have a trully unique underwater experience, then i encourge you to try this!
Day 6: Daytrip to Furteventura
On our 6th day, we went for a day trip from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura - and we had a fantastic experience!
Fuerteventura is a stunning island in the Canary Islands, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back vibe. It boasts some of the best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in Europe, thanks to its consistent winds. The island's landscape features dramatic volcanic formations, rolling dunes, and charming white-washed villages. The island is also home to several natural parks, including the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park, offering breathtaking views and unique ecosystems.
To go to Fuerteventura you need to take a ferry from Playa Blanca in Lanzarote. If you have a rented car, we recommend you take the ferry with your rented car, as this will give you the chance to better explore Furteventura in the short time you will have there. As per January 2024, we paid approx. €250 for a car and 4 persons for a trip to Fuerteventura and back. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes and brings you to Corralejo (Fuerteventura).
As we arrived in Fuerteventura, we headed to the Dunes of Corralejo. Located in the north of Fuerteventura - approx. 30 minutes away from the port where the ferry leaves you, the dunes are probably the island's most iconic natural attractions and features expansive sand dunes that stretch for several kilometers along the coastline. We spend some good hours walking in the dunes, soaking up the sun, sunbathing and taking photos. The landscape is stunning and unique.
After we spend approx. 3 hours at the dunes we headed to El Cotillo Beaches. Located in a charming fishing village, the beaches here are known for their stunning lagoons and crystal-clear waters. In perfect conditions, it is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing, away from the more crowded areas. Sadly, when we arrived there, the weather got extremely windy and started to rain so we basicaly had to return to our car and could not get anymore of Fuerteventura, as it rained for the rest of the day.
Day 7: Departure and Reflection
On your final day in Lanzarote, we took some time to reflect on our unforgettable 6-days itinerary on this amazing island. Whether you're relaxing on the beach, exploring volcanic landscapes, or savoring local cuisine, Lanzarote's beauty and charm are sure to leave a lasting impression. We departed with cherished memories and a longing to return to this captivating Canary Island paradise - maybe during another winter when we will want to run away from the cold weather of the european continent.
All in all, having this 6-days itinerary in Lanzarote during winter, offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty and will make you absolutely forget about the cold weather at home. From exploring volcanic landscapes to indulging in local cuisine and relaxing on pristine beaches, there's no shortage of experiences to enjoy on this enchanting island. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or cultural exploration, Lanzarote's diverse attractions promise an unforgettable getaway in the heart of winter.
TIPS!
Weather: Expect pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 21°C (59°F to 70°F). During the day, the weather is very sunny and you will easily be able to sunbath and get a good tan, but it can get windy, so bring a light jacket for the evenings.
Pack Smart: Include swimwear and sunscreen and comfortable shoes for exploring. An umbrella or raincoat might be handy, as occasional rain showers can occur.
Car Rental: We strongly recommend renting a car. During the winter season, rent a car princes are very affordable and it will give you the chance to explore the island at your own pace, especially if you want to visit remote areas and attractions. Remember! Public transportation is not an option on this remote island!
Almost all attractions on the island close at latest 17 o'clock so take this into consideration when planning your days.
Dining: Try local cuisine, including seafood and traditional Canarian dishes like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and mojo sauce.
Local Festivals: Check for any local events or festivals happening in January, as you may experience local culture and traditions.
Explore Timanfaya National Park: Don’t miss the volcanic landscapes and geothermal demonstrations. Consider a guided tour for an informative experience. Be aware that the park is open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 4.45 p.m.
Opening Hours: Keep in mind that some attractions, shops, and restaurants may have reduced hours or be closed during the winter season. Plan your itinerary accordingly and check opening times in advance.
Visit Beaches: Playa Blanca and Papagayo Beach are excellent spots for relaxation.
Wine Tasting: Visit the wine region of La Geria to sample unique wines produced in volcanic soil. A vineyard tour can be a delightful experience.
Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or water sports. The weather is generally favorable in January.
Currency: The currency in Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). Be sure to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, as not all establishments accept credit cards.
Safe travels, dear traveller!
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