Volcanoes, Aloe Vera, and Black sand, Oh my! These three components don't nearly illustrate the captivating beauty that makes this Volcanic island an unlikely treasure. I had the pleasure of staying in the southernmost tip of Lanzarote, along the Papagayo coast, which is known for its diamond-like water, powder soft sand, and countless paths of pure terrain. I've always had a charm for untouched beauty, without the effects of tourism and modernization, where native culture, serene landscapes, and harmony derives from gusts of wind and birds chirping. Depending on where you decide to venture off to, every area of Lanzarote holds a particularity making it a never-ending voyage.
Lanzarote is one of the seven predominant islands located along the Spanish archipelago known as the Canary Islands. Morocco is merely 62 miles from the "Canaries" and although this archipelago is of Spanish territory, the interconnection of cultures between Spain, the Canaries, and Africa is a profound factor in what makes Lanzarote (and its fellow islands) so unique. Lanzarote is the fourth largest island amongst the seven, and demographically the third most popular. Climate is warm all year round and never reaches under 14°C ( 57°F), however, winds are fairly strong depending on where you are so take precaution prior to hiking/biking/surfing.
1. Costa de Papagayo
You can't go to Lanzarote without hiking this mesmerizing coast of seven playas (some refer to it as being only five, however there are multiple coves in between each beach). I based myself slightly outside of Playa Blanca (which is a touristic hotspot in the municipality of Yaiza, known for its resorts and endless recreational activities) making the trek throughout all beaches quite reachable by foot (not so effortless, however). If I was to define the level of difficulty, I would say that this hike is around an intermediate range, also due to the inescapable winds that make you feel as though you're blowing away! My two personal favorite beaches would have to be Caleton del Cobre and Playa Caletón San Marcial; if you want a secluded, remote-island ambience...look no further because both of these beaches have no restrictions with dress-code (AKA nudist beaches) and are usually less crowded than its neighbors, Playa Mujeres and Playa de Papagayo.
2. El Golfo and Los Hervideros
I was relentless in trying to find a public bus heading to El Golfo, however, after numerous google searches it was a dead-end search due to the fact that public transportation doesn't operate within the volcanic area unless you register with a tour bus company. Long story short, I decided to rent a 125 CC scooter and drove there alone from Playa Blanca. The distance wasn't quite the issue in respect to the unsteady winds that were constantly drifting me to the side of the road. I wouldn't recommend this form of transportation unless you are in dire need and out of options on a short time span. Needless to say that after about 45 min of driving through battlefield-like grounds, volcanic terrains, and black sand...I finally arrived at El Golfo. This quant little town holds an extraordinary green lagoon (known as the Charco de Los Clicos) that has people swarming around with cameras and selfie sticks. What many find so fascinating about this lagoon is that its adjacent to the ocean, making it a real masterpiece of mother nature. There isn't direct access to the Lago verde but you can wander around the beach and within the mountains. On my way back to Playa Blanca, I passed through Los Hervideros which is a rocky coastline of dark pigmented caves and rocks that places you in a state of nostalgia, as if you're in Ursula's (from Disney's, Ariel) underwater dungeon.
Thanks for reading, tune in for my next post! ¡Adiós!