The popular holiday destination of Lanzarote is located just off the coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean. And is one of the seven Canary Islands – which are part of Spain even though they are in fact situated many miles south of the Iberian Peninsula.

The Canaries are divided into two distinct administrative regions. With Tenerife the lead island and capital of the Western Canaries, which comprise La Gomera, El Hierro and La Palma. Whilst to the east Gran Canaria is the central hub of the eastern Canaries, which also include Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.

However despite being all part of one single autonomous region these islands are in fact all very different. Lanzarote for example is very much drier and more barren than the other islands in the archipelago. The result of very low rainfall and a desert climate – which is little surprise as the outer reaches of what was once the Spanish Sahara are just 100 miles away. So the weather is very warm here but can feel chilly once the sun has set.

The barren feel of the island is further increased by the fact that much of the interior of Lanzarote was obliterated by volcanic eruptions in the 18th century. With fields of lava wiping out farmland and trees – leaving a lunar like wasteland in its wake. Which is today by far the most popular attraction on the island as a well as a popular location with science fiction film makers.

Local Holiday Accommodation – Villas in Playa Blanca and Lanzarote Hotels

Tourists arrive at the islands only international airport at Arrecife before heading on to their accommodation. With Lanzarote hotels paying host to about half of all visitors. Whilst the other 50% of tourists book apartments and villas in Lanzarote. Favouring the privacy and flexibility of self catering accommodation.

There are three main tourist resorts on the island – but during the winter months Playa Blanca in the south of the island really comes into its own. As the weather in this part of Lanzarote is warmer during December and January. Making this the ideal spot for anyone in search of winter sun.

There are plenty of places to stay in this fast growing resort too. With an ample selection of villas in Playa Blanca available for rental. Along with a number of good value four star hotels. Playa Blanca is also located just a short distance from some of Lanzarote´s leading tourist attractions – such as the Montañas del Fuego, or Fire Mountains, of the Timanfaya National Park. And the famous Green Lagoon at El Golfo.