Lanzarote

The island reveals itself through contrasts, each region unveiling a different facet of its volcanic identity.

• In the center of the island, Timanfaya National Park constitutes the burning heart of Lanzarote. Frozen lava fields, ochre craters and scoria mountains create a spectacular landscape nicknamed the "Fire Mountains." The tour, supervised to preserve the site, provides a striking glimpse of the underground power still present. The earth still smokes here, reminding us that the island is alive. Stunning...
• In the north, the landscapes become greener and steeper. The village of Haría, nestled in "the valley of a thousand palms," surprises with its gentleness and almost tropical atmosphere. The steep cliffs of Famara, meanwhile, overlook a vast wild beach swept by winds, a paradise for surfers and lovers of wide open spaces.
• The south concentrates some of the island's most beautiful beaches, particularly around Playa Blanca and Papagayo, protected turquoise water coves ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• In the east, Arrecife, the capital, lives to the rhythm of markets, small urban beaches and terraces facing the sea. Much more authentic than touristy, it allows you to grasp the daily life of the inhabitants. Nearby, Costa Teguise combines beaches, seafront promenades and art centers in a livelier setting but, once again, always respectful of the environment.

Our advice: Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace. Distances are short but each detour reveals a different landscape. Also bring a windbreaker: even in the sun, the trade winds can cool the atmosphere, especially by the sea.

• Timanfaya National Park: THE iconic site of the island. You'll love the guided tour through the volcanoes, the impressive geothermal demonstrations and these lunar landscapes shaped by 18th-century eruptions. The heat still perceptible beneath your feet recalls the raw power of the earth, still active. The silence, only disturbed by the wind, reinforces the almost surreal character of the place. Visit early in the morning to fully enjoy the atmosphere and avoid crowds.
• Jameos del Agua: Former lava tunnel transformed into an artistic center by César Manrique. Natural pool, auditorium and café blend harmoniously. A masterpiece of integration!
• Cueva de los Verdes: Embark on a spectacular underground exploration in a volcanic tube several kilometers long. Light effects and amazing acoustics... A must!
• Mirador del Río: A dizzying viewpoint over the Chinijo archipelago and the island of La Graciosa. The unforgettable panorama is appreciated by Instagrammers, but above all deserves to linger while taking time to observe the play of light on the ocean. The architecture signed by César Manrique, almost invisible, blends into the cliff. From inside, the large bay windows give the impression of floating above the Atlantic.
• Playa de Papagayo: What a delight this collection of protected coves, golden sand and crystal-clear waters, far from beach resorts...

Lanzarote cuisine is simple, sincere and deeply linked to the volcanic terroir.

• Papas arrugadas con mojo: Small local potatoes cooked in very salty water, with wrinkled skin, served with mojo rojo (spicy) or mojo verde (coriander) sauces. Inseparable from any Canarian meal.
• Grilled fish of the day: Vieja, wreckfish or red porgy, caught locally and simply grilled, accompanied by vegetables or potatoes. The result: absolute freshness and authentic marine flavors.
• Queso de cabra de Lanzarote: Renowned goat cheese, sometimes aged in volcanic ash. Frank and slightly smoky taste. Enjoy it plain or with a drizzle of local honey for more indulgence.
• Gofio: Surprising specialty made from roasted cereal flour. Served as a side dish, puree or even dessert, it's a hit of the archipelago's culinary tradition.
• Wines of La Geria: Grown in individual craters protected by stone walls, these volcanic wines, especially malvasias, offer a minerality unique in the world. To be drunk in moderation however...

• A geothermal dinner at El Diablo: Timanfaya restaurant where dishes are cooked using natural volcanic heat. An experience as symbolic as it is tasty.
• A hike on the La Corona volcano: Less frequented, this volcano offers a spectacular view of the north of the island and allows you to walk on raw and silent lands.
• Diving or snorkeling in volcanic waters: Here, the seabeds are rich, the underwater caves particularly fish-filled and the visibility... exceptional. Another way to discover the island.
• Sunrise at Famara: Watch the first light set the cliffs ablaze, facing the ocean, in almost total silence... A suspended moment guaranteed.
• Visit to the César Manrique Foundation: Inspiring, the artist's former house, built on volcanic bubbles. We discovered an intimate and simple place, ideal for understanding his vision and his fight for a sustainable island.