Things to see

There's plenty to see and do in Lanzarote

It’s tempting to just relax by one of the many pools in Sands Beach Resort but if you make the effort to go on some of the excursions around Lanzarote, your curiosity will definitely be rewarded. The hotel reception has plenty of options you can pick from and the island is yours to explore.

Timanfaya National Park

There are some trips that just leap out at you and one of those is Timanfaya National Park. Lanzarote is a volcanic island but you can’t realize the full extent and power of what has happened without some close up experience. Holding hot rock straight off the ground, watching bushes burst into flame in shallow holes and seeing geysers fire water into the air will help you to appreciate the true Lanzarote. The main lava field route of the park is restricted to coaches so, although you can park up and take an official park bus for this part, you may be better off going on an all-included excursion.

Camel riding

It’s one of those experiences you just have to try, riding a camel. A camel safari will take you on a trip through the sand dunes with the volcanoes looking down on you. Getting on and off your camel, you will soon discover why they are called the ships of the desert. The rides last for 25 minutes, so it’s a good idea to include a camel ride as part of a day or half day trip along with other attractions around Lanzarote.

Tasting the wine

It may not look it, but the dark volcanic soil of Lanzarote is great for growing grapes. There are several working bodegas (vineyards) you can visit to see a little of the wine making process for yourslef and, of course, to taste the fruits of the annual August grape harvest. Because the north-east breezes can sometimes be strong, the vines are planted in small hollows in the ground and protected by a horsehoe shaped low rubble wall called a Geria, and you will see many of these all over Lanzarote.

Jameos del Agua

These volcanic water caves are a great introduction to the volcanic past of the island and at the same time to the influential work of Cesar Manrique, the artist, sculptor and engineer whose vision helped to shape Lanzarote. The main cave below ground is a visual treat, carved out of the rock by the forces of nature and home to the endemic Albino Crab. The swimming pool and surrounding galleries lead to interactive displays about volcanic eruptions all over the world. This is a trip that will delight all ages and will fill your cameras with lots of great memories.

Teguise market

The bustling traditional Teguise market only takes place on a Sunday morning and the perfect place to buy typical Canarian and African crafts. This is your chance to haggle over clothes, ceramics, art and paintings. Teguise is the ancient capital of the island and well worth a look for the historic church and displays of traditional dance.

Rancho Texas Park

It’s good to choose a mix of informative and fun trips, but some attractions, like Rancho Texas Park are both. San Antonio, Texas was co founded by Canarian emigrants, 40 of whom hailed from Lanzarote, hence the connection. Mix in a flavour of the Wild West such as a goldmine, Indian village and canoe and pony rides with shows starring parrots, sea lions and birds of prey, then add some American art and history for good meaqsure and you have all the makings of a great day out. At night you can live high on the hog with the Country and Western Night featuring shoot outs, dancing and party games.

The Rancho Texas Park is just outside Puerto del Carmen and there is a free daily bus service that picks you up just along from Sands Beach Resort.

Sea Trips

If you fancy exploring the horizon, there are boat trips across to the tiny Isle of Los Lobos, just out from Playa Blanca or across to Fuerteventura, our nearest island neighbour. If a sun soaked catamaran ride to a deserted beach and the chance to see whales and dolphins is more your style, try the Catalanza - a free bus will pick you up near Sands Beach Resort. For a view of the marvels beneath the waves, there is a submarine safari from Puerto Calero and a chance to get a diver's perspective without even getting wet!

All these excursions and more are available at Sands Beach Resort hotel reception or you may choose to use the local taxi or bus services to mix and match your own itinerary. Either way, the Sands Beach reception will be pleased to guide you in the right direction. If you are going to be out all day, don’t forget that sun protection and, for inland trips, especially up in the hills, you may be glad of a light coat or jumper, depending on the season.