Moon walking in Lanzarote

If you think of Lanzarote only in terms of family holidays on the beach, you could be missing a trick. There are certainly plenty of things for families to do – slippery slides at the Aquapark, a submarine safari in Puerto Calero, sandy south-coast beaches, go-karts, pony treks and camel rides, or penguins and parrots at Guinate Tropical Park – but Lanzarote’s real beauty lies in its volcanic origins. Explore the moon-like landscape of Timanfaya National Park, with its craters, warm geysers and red sands. Wander through one of the world’s longest volcanic tunnels at Cuevas de los Verde or study a prickly subject in artist César Manrique’s Cactus Garden, which bristles with 10,000 cacti. Finish off the perfect day with a glass of fruity Malvasia wine, made from grapes grown in La Geria’s volcanic soil.

Why Go?
Go for the beaches, the family fun, and the lunar landscape. Feeling sporty? Play golf or go windsurfing at Costa Teguise, dive the lava caves and multicoloured reefs amidst harmless angel sharks or, in winter, ride the Atlantic swells off Playa de Famara.

When to Go?
Lanzarote is truly a year-round destination and is known as the ‘island of eternal spring’. The hottest temperatures (30C +) occur between July and September, while the winter months and chillier evenings fall between November and February – though conditions are still mild. The best time to travel to Lanzarote is during September and October, but with so many cheap deals on offer throughout the year, there really isn’t a bad time to visit.

How to get there?
Lanzarote is served by Arrecife Airport, known locally as Guacimeta, which is only 45 minutes from the furthest resort. Direct flights are available from most UK and European airports and several low-cost airlines now fly from the UK. You could also take the slower route, travelling by ferry from mainland Spain, leaving on a Saturday and arriving the following Wednesday.

Must see
Don’t leave Lanzarote without seeing Timanfaya’s National Park – its surreal landscape is truly out of this world. Head to Papagayo’s half-moon bay where you can snorkel the turquoise waters in peace and quiet, or enjoy secluded sunbathing at surfers’ paradise, Playa de Famara. And if you’re in Lanzarote on a Sunday, drop by the Sunday market in Costa Teguise where you can haggle for crafts and jewellery or eat tapas while you watch the Canarian dancers.