Sep 18 2010
The Different Halves Of Lanzarote
Lanzarote is very much an island of two halves. With the south dedicated to tourism whilst the north remains largely unsullied by development. Despite the fact that this Canary Island receives millions of tourist guests every year. Thanks largely to local planning laws which have carefully contained construction and restricted it to the south. This split identity becomes apparent as you tour the island. As whilst the southern half of the island is where most of the best apartments and villas in Lanzarote are located the north is still home to farmland and agriculture, remaining the preserve of the locals as a result.
It is not until you actual take time to explore the Island that the differences become so apparant. Travellers on a tight budget are well catered for as there are plenty of holiday apartments in Lanzarote so you should be able to find something to suit your needs.
Driving from the largest resort of Puerto del Carmen tourists need to join the LZ1 which takes them past the airport at Arrecife before joining the ring road or circunvalacion, which skirts past the working capital of Arrecife. Before heading towards the junction with Tahiche which is essentially the gateway to the north. Here tourists will also find the former home and studio of the artist César Manrique, who built this incredible property over five bubbles in the lava flow and which is well worth a visit. After Tahiche tourists have a choice of two routes. They can head for the former capital of Teguise, which is home to some superb examples of colonial architecture such as the Palacio Spinola. Or instead follow the coastal road in the direction of Arrieta. Which is the main beach resort in the north of the island and very popular with locals. Arrieta is also an ideal spot for a lunch break as there are some great fish restaurants here.
The north of Lanzarote is where most of the major tourist attractions can be found too. Such as the majestic Mirador Del Rio, a lookout point perched atop the Famara massif. And the Cactus garden and the Jameos del Agua. All of which were created by the ubiquitous Manrique. Tourists will also notice that this part of the island is much greener than the south. Especially in and around the Valley of 1000 Palms.
The south of the island is a total contrast to the north. It is dominated by volcanic scenery and lava scapes which were created by eruptions in the 18th century. The 300 odd volcanoes here are all now dormant but this whole area remains a real tourist hot spot as hundreds of thousands of visitors tour the area every year.
Additional information on Lanzarote tours and attractions .
No related posts.