How do the main holiday companies and tour operators compare on price for holidays in Lanzarote this winter? Find out who is offering the best package deals. And is it cheaper to build your own break?
Trying The Tour Operators
Tracking down the best value deal is obviously dependent on many factors and variants, such as desired departure airport, flexibility on dates and resorts and the type of accommodation and tariff preferred.
And whilst many people now prefer to create their own holiday it can also sometimes pay to book a package deal.
Despite recent mergers Thomson, First Choice and Thomas Cook remain amongst the three largest individual brand names offering package holidays to Lanzarote. So we’ve scoured their websites for the best deals available this winter – both for a family of four who can only travel across the Christmas school holidays and want a decent hotel in Playa Blanca with kids facilities.
And for a couple looking for a winter sun break sometime in January and aren’t too bothered about the type of accommodation they stay in – so long as it’s in or around Puerto del Carmen.
For both parties we´ve taken London Gatwick as the departure point.
Family Christmas Holiday in Playa Blanca
First Choice
First Choice’s website offers Lanzarote holidays from £155 this winter. But there´s nothing close to this price available for anyone planning to spend time here over the festive season. And in fact nothing available at all for a family seeking a hotel stay in Playa Blanca encompassing Christmas Day.
The best value online deal available departs Gatwick on New Years Day with Thomsonfly – for a one week stay at the apart-hotel Iberostar Bocayna Village in Playa Blanca (classed as three suns plus). Accommodation is on a half board basis and the cost for the week is £1845.70 for the family of four.
Thomsons
Thomsons are still able to offer a holiday break here over the Christmas period. Departing Gatwick on Christmas Eve for a weeks stay at the Aparthotel Playa Flamingo in Playa Blanca on a half board basis at a cost of £2326.
Thomas Cook
Thomas Cook are offering a weeks stay at the Sun Park apartments in Playa Blanca with departure dates of December 21st – but on a self catering basis only, so skewing the comparison somewhat. With the total holiday price coming in at £1552 – although of course any saving versus the other operators will be more than offset by additional expenditure on meals and food shopping.
The DIY Alternative
How easy is it to beat the main holiday companies on price over Christmas? Discount hotel specialists Alpharooms are offering half board at the Paradise Island resort in Playa Blanca for a total of £788.48 – for a one week stay from Monday 22nd to the 30th of December.
However flight costs across these same dates are prohibitive – with the cheapest outward flight on the 22nd currently coming in at £691,96 with Thomas Cook. And the only direct return flight currently available on the 30th December with Monarch costing £341.44 – giving a combined total of over a grand per head for flights. Making a DIY job a non-starter.
Winter Break For Two in Puerto del Carmen
First Choice
First Choice´s best deal in January for a party of two is a weeks stay at the Bitacora Apartments in Puerto del Carmen. Coming in at £410 for a weeks self catering with departures on December 18th.
Thomsons
Thomsons have a number of good looking offers on mid-January departures. Including a weeks stay at the Cinco Plazas complex on a self catering basis in the heart of Puerto del Carmen at £330 per person with departures on Wednesday 14th. And at £318 on the same dates at the Hyde Park complex a little further outside the resort in Playa Los Pocillos.
Thomas Cook
Thomas Cook are offering a number of seriously attractive flight and accommodation deals in January. The best value of which is a weeks stay at the Acuario Sol II apartments for £230 per person – on a self catering basis for departures on January 15th. With similarly priced deals also on offer at other popular complexes around the resort such as Plaza Azul and Plaza Palmeras.
The DIY Alternative
Flight prices obviously fall considerably in January once the kids are back to school. Making it possible to construct return flights for around the £200 per head mark, with easyJet offering some of the most attractive fares currently available – for example departing Gatwick on January 20th for £95.98, with the return on the 27th priced at £91.54 (giving a total of 187.52 including taxes).
Rates for holiday apartments in Puerto del Carmen start from as little as £168 per week – which can secure a weeks stay on Plaza Palmeras. Making it possible to beat all but the Thomas Cook January deals on price with a DIY deal.
Landmark? House museum? Restaurant? The Museo del Campesino fulfils all of these functions and more. Located right in the heart of the island, the Museo is a celebration of Lanzarote’s rural past. Providing visitors with an insight into Lanzarote´s traditional arts and crafts – as well as a great staging post for a bite to eat at the excellent on site restaurant.
Monumento al Campesino
The location of the Monumento is clearly signposted by the towering 15 metre sculpture of ‘Fecundidad’ or ‘Fertility’, constructed in 1968 from old water tanks following a design of César Manrique’s, executed by Jésus Soto. The island born artist and architects key collaborator on his larger scale spatial works and installations. And is strategically located in the centre of Lanzarote at a point where the island’s main agricultural methods– such as jable (sandy soil), and enarenados (dry cultivation) – meet and overlap.
This structure sits on a mound called La Peña de Tajaste – a rocky outcrop that was left untouched by the volcanic activity which transformed the surrounding countryside. Figuratively it represents a local farmer astride his beast of burden. At the foot of the monument is a small plot of land covered in the black volcanic picon that is used as a mulch for the vines that are grown locally. The picon in this field has been swept into carefully maintained furrows – as if ready for planting – and has something of the appearance of a Japanese Zen garden as a result.
Exploring the House Museum
From the Monumento, the carefully laid path of planed volcanic slabs leads into the house museum, the Casa-Museo. This is a life-size reconstruction of a typical farm of the past, replicating how former inhabitants would have lived.
The buildings were normally constructed around a courtyard, to create an external workspace that was out of the wind. There are two examples here, one to the left and the other to the right of the circular threshing floor at the top of the staircase. The courtyard on the right hand side is home to several pieces of original machinery used to process the crops grown on the island.
There are also examples of the English chair, seating specifically designed to carry two people on a camel’s back. The overwhelming use of white paint on the floor and wall surfaces make sunglasses essential in this part of the museum, to reduce the dazzling effect as much as possible.
At the bottom of the staircase of white flooring and volcanic stone is the restaurant. Or rather its top half. As at ground floor level, there is an excellent tapas bar which offers reasonably priced tapas – at €4 a plate.
Typical dishes include white anchovies (boquerones), octopus (pulpo), goat’s cheese (queso de cabra), tuna (atún) and green olives (aceitunas). The interior space is decorated with examples of the furnishings that were once used in Canarian homes, such as the oil lamps adorning the walls.
To the right of the tapas bar is a double doorway that leads visitors to the main restaurant area, below ground. Again, agricultural equipment has been used for decorative purposes, with threshing boards hung on the walls. The staircase descends into an enormous dining space, divided into two overlapping circles. Which often provides the backdrop for local wedding parties and other large scale functions.
The whole area – which was developed after Manrique´s death – is lit by two large openings in the ceiling that are covered by retractable sailcloth awnings. The further wall of the restaurant almost appears to have been hewn out of the rock, as it consists of several continuous layers of quarried stone. The interior is adorned with numerous plant species that tolerate low light, with ferns, monstera deliciosa and palms used in groups, both behind the bar and in the picon garden in the centre of the larger dining area.
The menu for the main restaurant is extensive and covers many traditional Canarian dishes, such as goat, rabbit and less unusual fare such as steak, chicken and fish.
As with all of Manrique’s architectural designs, there is an unexpected and playful element to the layout, which culminates in a waterfall. The cascade emerges from the rocky outcrop that continues along the whole of the far wall of the restaurant and behind the stage where folklore groups perform traditional Canarian music. The water flows down the rocks on either side of the entrance way to a volcanic tunnel that leads to the Centro de Artesania (Handicraft Centre).
Shelves showcasing the handmade ceramics line the tunnel’s walls, which are constructed from planed volcanic stone. The underground passage emerges into a sunken well garden, complete with another water feature and a spiral staircase to take visitors back up to ground floor level. The fountain area is beautifully planted, again using plenty of monstera deliciosa, ferns and papyrus.
Artisan Centre
The top of the staircase opens out into the courtyard of the Centro de Artesania. Where once again the traditional architecture predominates, with green painted wooden doors and windows and white walls. Canarian folklore music is usually playing in the background as well. Numerous workshops are housed within these buildings, where local craftsmen and women make baskets (cesteria), pottery (ceramica), leather goods (artesania de cuero) and woven fabrics (del telar – from the loom).
There is also an outlet for locally produced wines, products such as bags made from palm leaves (palma palmitos) and a small souvenir shop, which also houses a cashpoint. Upstairs in the Centre there are several rooms with permanent exhibits, displaying models of all the local churches and dedicated to past activities such as communal milling.
Using the main exit of the Centro de Artesania, there is a pathway to the left which goes all the way back round to the tapas bar, passing the more formal entrance to the subterranean restaurant. Planted along this pathway are lemon trees and numerous vines, illustrating the methods adopted by farmers on Lanzarote to protect their crops from the prevailing wind. These semi-circular rock walls, called zocos, can be seen in greater abundance just a few kilometres further up the road, in La Geria.
Admission & Opening Times
Entrance and parking is entirely free of charge and the Monumento is open every day from 10.00 to 18.00. With the restaurant open from 13.00 to 16.00.Telephone :: 0034 928 520136
How To Get There
The Museo del Campesino is located just outside the town of San Bartolomé, at the beginning of the village of Mozaga. If you are driving from Puerto del Carmen, the main route is to turn off the circunvalación (the LZ2) at Playa Honda (just after the airport exit on the motorway) and follow directions for San Bartolomé (LZ20). The main road which goes to San Bartolomé continues along the edge of the town and comes out at a roundabout where the Monumento is clearly visible.
If you are driving from Costa Teguise, there are two routes you can take. Follow the road from Costa Teguise to Teguise (LZ10) and turn off at Nazaret for the road signposted for Famara. Then turn left, driving past the goat’s cheese factory and continue until you reach the roundabout where the Monumento will be visible. Or you can continue to Teguise, drive through the old capital and join the LZ30 that runs all the way between Teguise and San Bartolomé.
With half term fast approaching next month, we take a look at holiday villas in Lanzarote that are specifically designed with children in mind. And that also offer top quality accommodation for their parents too.
Vista Lobos 6
This villa really does have it all, making it the ideal location to spend a holiday in Lanzarote with young children. Located in the southernmost resort of Playa Blanca, the villas at Vista Lobos have been built to a very high standard. The outdoor facilities include a heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, built-in barbecue and dining area and a children’s play area with a climbing frame, slide and swings. The interior also has plenty to offer in the way of entertainment for young ones as the lounge comes equipped with a pool table and table-hockey game, a large flat-screen TV, satellite TV, DVD and CD players and a playstation.
There is ample space for up to ten people, with four bedrooms and a further double sofabed in the lounge-dining room area. There are three bathrooms, two of which are en-suite and one also has another Jacuzzi. The house has been stylishly decorated with modern furniture to provide every home comfort (including a washing machine and dishwasher) yet is spacious and light. It would make ideal holiday accommodation for two families who want to share, as the facilities should keep both parents and children amused and happy, even if no-one wants to venture further than the garden.
Vista Lobos 6 is available from £900 per week. More information and bookings
Oasis de Nazaret 1
Set in the village of Nazaret in the centre of the island this is another villa that provides a few extra facilities for the youngest visitors. Aside from the lovely pool, paddling pool and Jacuzzi, an enclosed play area has been created with a swing, a slide and a wendy house. And apart from the usual entertainment options such as DVDs and satellite television, there are also plenty of games provided, including table football, a pool table and table tennis.
The house itself comprises four bedrooms, two doubles and two twins and three bathrooms. The comfortable lounge opens into the dining area, which has double patio doors opening out onto the terrace. The kitchen is fully equipped, with all mod cons, including a dishwasher, whilst extras such as a baby alarm, high chair, travel cot and a buggy ensure that parents travelling with very young children don’t have to bring everything with them. The villa’s location is ideal for families who wish to do a little sightseeing whilst they are here, as the village is very centrally located for many of the attractions the island has to offer. Oasis de Nazaret has a small supermarket, whilst a much larger one is only a ten minute drive away.
One week’s accommodation at Oasis de Nazaret 1 starts at £695. More information and bookings
Atlantic Gardens 1
Situated on a complex right next to the sea, the bungalow at Atlantic Gardens makes ideal holiday accommodation for families with children. Not only is the beach at Playa Flamingo only a few minutes walk away, but there are good on site facilities, including a children’s play area, separate children’s swimming pool, pool tables and a games room with internet access.
The accommodation can sleep up to four people, with one double bedroom and a sofabed in the lounge. A cot can be hired separately. The kitchen comes equipped for self-catering and the lounge has satellite TV. Externally, there is a lovely sun terrace for al-fresco dining or sunbathing, whilst there are also extensive terraces around the pool with sun beds and brollies. Other on site amenities include tennis courts, a gym, a restaurant, bar and laundry room.
Prices for Atlantic Gardens 1 start at £230 per week. More information and bookings
Lanzarote offers a wealth of conventional holiday accommodation, but for those who are looking for something a little more out of the ordinary there are plenty of excellent alternatives out there to hotels, holiday villas and apartments.
Eco-Yurt In Arrieta
A Yurt is a circular portable tent, that originally provided shelter for the nomadic tribesmen of Mongolia. Today – in a far more luxurious, five star incarnation – an Eco Yurt is available for holiday rental within the grounds of Finca del Mar in Arrieta.
Spacious enough to sleep four people, the interior has been beautifully finished. Following the traditional design employed in Mongolia and Kazakhstan, the felt covering rests on a timber frame, whilst the walls are made of lattice frameworks, again in the traditional manner.
But that’s where the similarities to the life of a yak herder ends, as the yurt offers all the modern facilities that you´d expect from good quality self catering accommodation. Such as a fully equipped kitchen, outdoor dining area, bathroom and access to the heated eco-pool on site.
Whilst the interior has been decorated more with a luxury retreat in mind than huddling round a smoky fire. The floor is fully tiled and the bedroom furniture has been designed for relaxation. As part of the eco-retreat at Finca del Mar, guests can be assured of its green credentials, as the entire posada runs on solar and wind generated power.
Cave Dwelling in La Asomada
Lanzarote is best known for its volcanoes – so why not stay in one? The tradition of cave dwelling on the island goes back to the pre-Spanish native inhabitants, the Guanche and can still be enjoyed today, albeit in a slightly more luxurious form.
The Valle de las Cuevas is a small, private valley formed by eroded cliffs in La Asomada, close to Puerto del Carmen. Three unique houses are literally embedded into this narrow valley with rooms built into and onto the rock and some formed by natural caves.
Winding paths, platforms and tropical gardens interlink the three houses, one of which, The Castillo de las Cuevas even boasts its own ‘mock-rock’ battlements.
It´s all done in the best possible taste though as the brickwork of the buildings has been colour matched to the surrounding rock faces, so ensuring a high degree of harmony.
Hollywood Hangout
Where movie stars lead, others tend to follow. And what better place to stay on Lanzarote than the former home of Omar Sharif? The famous Egyptian actor had a fabulous bachelor pad designed for him by Cesar Manrique. Carved into the side of a volcano, the house itself has a bird’s eye view of the village of Oasis de Nazaret and all the way down to the coast. Sadly for Omar, he lost the property in a game of bridge and never took up occupancy. Since then it has been used as a film-set occasionally, but is mostly known for the excellent on-site restaurant, bar and gardens.
Within the grounds of Lagomar are two guest cottages, perfect for a secret getaway. And with a restaurant and Bar La Cueva right on the doorstep, visitors to this rather exclusive enclave need never step outside. Not forgetting the tennis courts, a small private swimming pool, art gallery and beautiful gardens to explore.
VIP Accommodation in Los Valles
Whilst some might think that an underground house is a suitable habitat only for hobbits, the exquisitely decorated accommodation of El Aljibe in Los Valles proves otherwise. A former water storage tank constructed using volcanic stone comprises the main living space at El Aljibe. Within the space a wooden platform has been built to create a mezzanine level for the bedroom, whilst underneath is a cosy living room, complete with hi-tech music system to make the most of the extraordinary acoustics.
Entrance to and from the aljibe is via a wooden staircase that connects up with the platform. At ground level is the dining area, kitchen and bathroom, with steps leading out into the enclosed patio garden. In a corner of the garden there is also a covered Jacuzzi, whilst within the grounds of the property there is a heated swimming pool, shared with guests staying in the accommodation next door.
The resort of Costa Teguise is home to some of the best quality hotels in Lanzarote. Which provide an ideal base for visitors looking to explore the islands key cultural and tourist attractions.
Hotel Gran Melia Salinas
As the first accommodation to be built in Costa Teguise, the Gran Melia has a considerable pedigree as the finest hotel in the resort. It offers five star luxury accommodation and has some of the most attractive public areas of any hotel on the island.
For instance, the internal garden, designed by César Manrique, has some of the most impressive tropical planting to be found in Lanzarote. A stream cascades through the garden, which is laid out on several levels and at night the palm trees and plants are lit to create an atmospheric backdrop to the hotel bar and reception area. Adorning the walls of the reception hall and the bar are two large bas-relief murals, created by Manrique as well.
The exterior gardens are also beautifully designed and maintained, with a large lagoon swimming pool, similar to that at the Jameos del Agua, for guests to bathe in. There is direct access to the sandy beach in front of the Gran Melia, whilst several of the restaurants are also to be found in the hotel grounds. Accommodation comes in the form of rooms, suites and holiday villas, the latter of which are scattered around the gardens.
Hotel Las Coronas
Close to the beach at Playa Bastian is the Las Coronas Hotel. Also a four star establishment, it is well situated for access to local restaurants and bars in the Santa Rosa area of the resort. And is a ten-minute stroll to the centre of town.
The hotel has the usual facilities of a restaurant, bars, nightly entertainment and large sunbathing areas around the pool. The rooms are spacious, with air-conditioning, fridge, balcony or terrace. Direct access to the seafront promenade gives guests the chance to stroll along by the sea into Costa Teguise.
Hotel Teguise Playa
With a location just behind the beach at El Jablillo, the Teguise Playa is able to ensure every guest has a stunning sea view from their room. As a quality four-star establishment the hotel has a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for visitors who need to unwind.
The public areas are spacious and beautifully planted with palm trees, as are the gardens. There are two large swimming pools and numerous outdoor activities organised for guests’ amusement. For the adventurous, there is even a scuba-diving store just to the front of the hotel, where beginners and experienced divers alike can book a session to explore the local waters.
Another talking point for visitors to this hotel is the moving bar – as the internal circle of seating rotates around the static bar, but at such a slow pace it can be some time before guests realise. Plenty of entertainment in the form of cabaret and music is provided on a nightly basis. The rooms are spacious and each has a sun terrace for a spot of private sunbathing.
Hotel Occidental Oasis
A sister hotel to the Teguise Playa, the Occidental Oasis is located on the opposite side of Costa Teguise, close to the capital of Arrecife. There is a small beach, El Ancla, just in front of the hotel, but apart from this, the accommodation is at a disadvantage for guests who like to explore the local neighbourhood. As the centre of the resort is a twenty minute walk away.
Hotel Beatriz Costa
Although not directly by the sea, the Beatriz Costa Hotel has other advantages that make it a popular destination with tourists. Including a full Spa, with thalassotherapy circuits, a Hammam, Jacuzzi, sauna and a range of massage treatments available.
The gardens are extensive with a large swimming pool area. And there are numerous sports activities to get involved in, including mini-golf and squash. Whilst the interior of the hotel has been decorated with a series of waterfalls and cascades which run throughout the public areas.
With three restaurants, covering a la carte, buffet and poolside refreshments, guests can comfortably stay within the hotel environs all day. For the adventurous there are several restaurants between five and ten minutes walk from the Beatriz, which is approximately the same distance to the nearest beach.
Barcelo Hotel Suites
Similarly, the Barcelo Hotel Suites are just opposite the Occidental Oasis and suffer from the same lack of proximity to the heart of Costa Teguise. This is not particularly problematic for guests who are prepared to take a taxi for a night out, as the cost is minimal to cover the three or four kilometres either way. However, it does mean there is a scarcity of things to do in the immediate hotel surroundings, which can be trying if there are children to amuse.
Holiday apartments in Puerto del Carmen offer a cost effective option for anyone seeking a bit of late summer sun. With prices starting from as little as £220 per week. And Lanzarote´s most popular resort offers visitors seeking to escape the dismal British weather plenty to do – combining golden sandy beaches with a large range of bars, clubs and restaurants.
Buena Pesca – One Bedroom Apartment
From £260 per week
There are few locations in Lanzarote quite as close to the sea as this. With stairs leading down directly from the apartment to the sea, guests can dip in and out of the water as they please.
Located in the Old Town harbour of Puerto del Carmen, these apartments are ideal for couples, with a double bedroom, open-plan kitchen-living room with a picture window overlooking the ocean, terrace and a separate bathroom. In the immediate vicinity are numerous tapas bars and restaurants and facilities such as supermarkets and banks.
The closest beach at Playa Chica is approximately ten minutes walk from the apartment.
Barranco Seco – Two Bedroom Apartment
From £285 per week
With a central location on a quiet complex, holidaymakers get the best of both worlds at these apartments. The beach is only two minutes walk from the complex; whilst on site facilities include a good-sized swimming pool and a separate pool for children.
The apartment on the ground floor has its own private garden area, fully fitted kitchen, lounge, two bedrooms and one bathroom. An ideal choice for families with young children.
Caleton Blanco – Two Bedroom Apartment
From £330 per week
Situated close to the resorts main beach, these apartments boast great facilities, such as a large sun terrace and pool area. The accommodation can sleep up to five people, with two bedrooms (one double, one twin), one bathroom, lounge and fully fitted kitchen.
Views from the upper apartments extend across the complex and out to sea. In the surrounding environs, visitors will find plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from as well as all the usual facilities that may be required.
Las Acacias – One Bedroom Apartment
From £220 per week
Tucked into a quiet residential street in the centre of Puerto del Carmen, these apartments can offer both peace and tranquillity whilst still being close to the beach and seafront of the resort. The accommodation can sleep three people, with the lounge opening onto the terrace that overlooks the pool and sunbathing area. There is a double bedroom, bathroom and fitted kitchen, with digital satellite TV (limited channels) also supplied.
Las Palmeras III – One Bedroom Apartment
From £225 per week.
Also situated in the centre of Puerto del Carmen is this one bedroom apartment, which can sleep up to three people. With a spacious lounge area and fitted kitchen, it makes an ideal home from home. There is a twin bedroom and a full bathroom. The complex has lovely sunbathing areas and terraces around the swimming pool.
Las Tabaybas – One Bedroom Apartment
From £230 per week.
With a beautiful big swimming pool and attractive gardens, the one bedroom apartment situated at Las Tabaybas is perfect for sunseekers. The complex is close to the beach at the Fariones and all the facilities, including a wealth of restaurants, surrounding this part of Puerto del Carmen. The apartment is on the ground floor and comprises a twin bedroom, bathroom, open-plan lounge-kitchen and terrace area. Up to three people can stay at any one time.
The number of luxury holiday villas in Lanzarote available for rent has increased dramatically in recent years. As more overseas owners have entered the market – increasing competition and raising the standards of accommodation and amenities. Here we take a look at some of the plushest pads currently available.
Los Mojones 1
LocationPuerto del Carmen
Beds Four
Sleeps Eight
Price From £1290 per week
The residential enclave of Los Mojones is home to some of the most upmarket property in Puerto del Carmen. And a number of luxury villas in this location are available for holiday rent – including the stunning Los Mojones 1. Which sleeps up to eight people and boasts a private heated pool, Jacuzzi and children´s pool.
The villa enjoys a peaceful and private location in a quiet cul de sac in Los Mojones. And is ideal for either a large group of friends or families with young kids.
Outdoor amenities and features encompass a great garden, with fountain, the all important heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi and kids pool and an array of outdoor games such as table tennis and pool – which can be enjoyed in the shade provided by one of the many sheltered areas.
The interior of the property is equally impressive. Providing light and spacious accommodation throughout. A main high domed lounge is the focal point of the villa, featuring top quality furniture and fittings and useful additional extras such as a computer with internet access and satellite TV with full Sky package.
Two double and two twin bedrooms provide ample sleeping space for up to eight guests and the accommodation is rounded out by a modern fully fitted kitchen and dining room.
Guests are welcomed on arrival with champagne and flowers, bath robes are provided for all guests and towels are changed six days a week.
Villa Vista 2
LocationPlaya Blanca
Beds Five
Sleeps Twelve
Price From £965 per week
There´s no shortage of good quality holiday villas in Playa Blanca available for rent. But there are few that can match up to the standards set by Villa Vista 2 – which is located in the tranquil Los Claveles area of the resort.
For starters the sheer size and scale of the property is way more generous than your run of the mill holiday villa. With a total of five bedrooms available – so sleeping big parties of up to twelve people in comfort.
It´s also very private – totally self contained and not overlooked by other neighbouring properties. Leaving guests free to really relax and enjoy the magnificent views that Villa Vista 2 enjoys down to the Atlantic below and across to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura from the large south facing terrace with built in barbecue.
Inside, the villa boasts a huge dining area – which features satellite TV, video and CD player, leading on into a separate large living room. All of which are furnished to a high standard.
Finca Del Mar
LocationArrieta
Beds Two
Sleeps Eight
Price From £781 per week
A growing number of visitors to the island now seek to connect with the real Lanzarote by enjoying a stay in a rural holiday villa away from the main resorts.
Arrieta, in the north of the island provides a great location for this sort of rural escape – as this small village boasts a great beach, plenty of restaurants and is in close proximity to the islands main tourist attractions, such as the Jameos del Agua and the Mirador del Rio.
This eco friendly former farm occupies some 30,000 sqaure metre of land slap bang next to the beach. And has been carefully constructed using local volcanic stone and wood, and furnished with Moroccan fixtures. The sleeping accommodation is arranged so that there is one master bedroom with double bed and en-suite bathroom, a second bedroom with two single beds and a sofa bed and further sofa bed/futon in the living room.
Converted out of a former water deposit, the property blends harmoniously into its surroundings. There are two natural wells within the grounds, numerous solar panels and windmills provide the power to the property and free range eggs are served up for breakfast from the finca’s chickens.
The four star Beatriz Playa hotel in Matagorda offers guests a great beachfront location right in the heart of the resort. Which is in close proximity to nearby Puerto del Carmen but which has a character all of its own.
Hotel Location
Matagorda is often billed as little more than an extension of Puerto del Carmen. Even the Beatriz Playa’s official website suggests that the hotel is located in Lanzarote´s most popular resort.
But Matagorda is in fact some 3km distant from its bigger neighbour – so providing a more peaceful and tranquil holiday location. With the benefit of having all of the amenities of Puerto del Carmen in close proximity.
The Beatriz Playa is located right on the front in Matagorda – just twenty metres from the beach, so providing direct access to the resorts long sweep of sand that extends as far as Arrecife airport 3km away in the opposite direction from Puerto del Carmen. So transfer times to the hotel are also minimal.
Hotel Facilities
The hotel is popular with tourists of all nationalities – often with a strong representation of Spanish guests alongside plenty of British and Irish visitors. And offers a total of 404 rooms – comprising a mixture of double rooms and Junior suites. All featuring a private balcony or terrace with views to the sea or of the hotels well planted gardens.
The hotels bedrooms are sufficiently spacious to enable a family of four to share, accommodating two adults and children in comfort.
Rooms include all the usual extras – such as satellite TV, Air-Con and telephone, safe and mini-bar. With room service available throughout the day and into the night from 08.00 to 24.00.
Whilst the hotel itself boasts some pretty impressive public spaces – featuring indoor waterfalls and gardens. Along with facilities such as two saltwater swimming pools, children’s pool, solarium, tennis court, mini-golf, a hairdressers, newsagents and shopping gallery.
Beatriz Playa Spa
But the real piece de resistance of the Beatriz Playa is the recently opened and funkily designed thallasotherapy spa. Which offers guests (and members of the public) a serious level of luxurious pampering.
The spa – which opened in May this year – is decorated in a very contemporary style – featuring a 60´s retro colour scheme. With olive greens and candy pinks dominating. Along with giant tiled motifs such as a hibiscus.
The Spa boasts a state of the art hydrothermal circuit, designed to massage the different muscle groups of the body, helping to eliminate knots and aches. Featuring waterfalls, underwater jets, swan’s neck jets, micro-bubble beds, Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath and power showers.
The Spa offers a full range of beauty treatments. Including facials, an intense oxygenating anti-ageing treatment of the skin tissue, an anti-wrinkle collagen treatment that firms the skin with elastine and a purification procedure that opens and cleanses the pores.
Along with body therapies that include tissue firming, restoring the body’s silhouette and improving circulation, with prices starting at €59. Plus body wraps in a variety of different flavours, such as algae, aloe vera, chocolate and even caviar.
For those who fancy a bit of a James Bond moment there is even a gold body wrap, specially designed for dry skin. A wide range of massage therapies are also available – such as refelexoly and shiatsu. And the Spa is open daily from 10.00 until 19.00.
Guest Reviews
As is the case with virtually all hotels reviews vary widely according to guests expectations and individual experiences. A scan of sites such as Trip Advisor reveals that virtually all guests couldn’t fault the hotel in terms of overall looks and location. But some found fault with the service, whilst others regretted taking up the all inclusive option as they found the food somewhat lacking in variety.
Information and Bookings
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The Old Town harbour area of Puerto del Carmen is where tourism first took off on Lanzarote. Transforming what was once a small fishing village known locally as La Tiñosa into the islands most popular resort. And today holiday accommodation in this part of Puerto del Carmen is still in demand. Offering an ideal base for those who like to be at the heart of the action.
Old Town One
Bedrooms :: Four
Sleeps :: Ten
Price :: From £1050 per week
This large detached villa occupies a prime location in the Old Town and can sleep up to ten people in complete comfort.
Boasting all mod cons such as air conditioning, jacuzzi, steamroom and satellite TV – plus added extras such as a games room Old Town One offers modern and stylish accommodation.
Built across two levels, the villa has recently been refurbished to a very high standard – and features large terraces which are ideal for soaking up the sun, eating outdoors from the barbecue or simply drinking in the view down to the harbour area below and across to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura.
The heated 6.4m by 4m swimming pool is flanked by well planted gardens and is further complemented by a hot spring jacuzzi
The upper level of the villa comprises an entrance hall which then leads though into a large circular lounge – which is the main living room and home to amenities such as the TV, video and music centre. The lounge is adjoined by a stylish dining room, featuring patio doors that open onto a large terrace overlooking the pool below.
The property’s master bedroom is also located on the upper floor and features a four poster bed and private terrace which also overlooks the pool.
Old Town Three
Bedrooms :: Three
Sleeps :: Six
Price :: From £890 per week
Old Town Three is a high quality villa, occupying a wonderful location in the harbour area. With a stylish indoor garden.
The villa is set all on one level and boasts beautiful mature gardens, along with an 8m by 4m pool, hot spring jacuzzi, barbecue and plenty of outdoor furniture for relaxing and dining under a covered pergola.
Old Town Three sleeps up to six people and features a fully fitted kitchen with all the amenities you´d expect, such as oven, hob, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, kettle toaster, coffee maker, microwave and breakfast bar. Plus a utility room with washing machine, drying area, iron and ironing board.
The villa’s spacious lounge offers plenty of comfortable furniture for watching satellite TV – with patio doors opening out onto the terrace area.
Old Town Two
Bedrooms :: Three
Sleeps :: Six
Price :: From £725 per week
With a spacious roof top sun terrace Old Town Two offers great views to the sea and across to Fuerteventura.
The villa can sleep up to six people and features a large combined lounge and dining area with comfortable seating and satellite TV. Along with a very well furnished master bedroom with four poster bed and doors leading out to private sun terrrace.
Outside there´s a solar heated 7m x 5m swimming pool plus a small children’s pool. Along with open and covered sun terraces – providing sunbathing and shady spots and a built in BBQ.
Stairs lead up from the terrace to a further spacious roof terrace for basking in the midday sun. The villa offers off street parking and maid service is provided twice weekly.
Old Town Eight
Bedrooms :: Four
Sleeps :: Eight
Price :: From £950 per week
This stylish villa was fully refurbished earlier this year. And occupies a great location – just five minutes stroll from the bars, shops and restaurants of Montaña Tropical and within easy walking distance of the harbour area.
Old Town Eight has two bedrooms in the main building and a further brace of bedrooms in an adjoining annexe area. And boasts a great roof top terrace offering fabulous sea and mountain views.
The villa sleeps up to 8 people and features a bright lounge area with satellite TV and DVD player, along with plenty of comfortable furniture. Plus additional extras such as air conditioning and games room.
Outdoors the villa boasts a large heated pool, children’s pool and Jacuzzi – all set in a well planted tropical garden.
Holiday apartments in Playa Blanca are a hot favourite with visitors to the island. As Lanzarote´s second most popular resort enjoys a great micro-climate, fantastic beaches and breathtaking views across to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura.
Apartments in Playa Flamingo
Playa Flamingo is an ideal holiday hotspot. Located just a few minutes walk from the ferry port that transports visitors to Fuertevenutura. And with a delightful, family friendly beach – plus plenty of shops and restaurants in close proximity.
The Playa Flamingo holiday complex is in the heart of this section of the resort and sits just above the beach. Offering a number of accommodation options.
Apartments Playa Flamingo
Bedrooms :: One
Bathrooms :: One
Sleeps :: Up to four people
Cost :: From £300 per week
The Playa Flamingo complex comprises a total of 70 privately owned units offering good value accommodation. With most offering great views down to the beach below and across to Fuerteventura.
These apartments are located just yards from the beach itself and are located within a few minutes walk of plenty of bars, shops and restaurants.
The Playa Flamingo complex also offers its own heated swimming pool. Plus a separate children swimming area, pool bar and children’s play area.
Each one bedroom apartment comes equipped with a sofa bed providing accommodation for up to four guests. And also feature facilities such as safes, satellite TV’s, cookers, fridge freezers and washing machines. A maid service is also provided once a week.Playa Flamingo Two Bed Apartments
Bedrooms :: Two
Bathrooms :: Two
Sleeps :: Up to six
Cost :: From £450 per week
The two bedroom apartments at Playa Flamingo offer enhanced space and facilities – as well as representing great value for money. Working out at just over £100 per week per person.
These modern apartments also feature a private terrace which enjoys great views and are ideal for sunbathing and al fresco outdoor dining.
Jardin del Sol Apartments
Bedrooms :: One
Bathrooms :: One
Sleeps :: Up to four people
Cost :: From £255 per week
The popular Jardin del Sol complex comprises 34 privately owned one and two bderoom apartments. And are also located close to the beach at Playa Flamingo – just one hundred metres walk away.
The complex boasts a large communal pool and mature gardens –and plenty of amenities within a short walking distance. The centre of Playa Blanca is also just ten minutes walk away.
The accommodation is bright, light and spacious – with each apartment enjoying its own private patio. As well as an open plan living room and kitchen area and well appointed bathroom. And offers excellent value for money – as they are available from just £255 per week.
Apartments Puerto Chico
Bedrooms :: Two
Bathrooms :: Two
Sleeps :: Up to five people
Cost :: From £400 per week
The Puerto Chico complex offers the best quality accommodation in the Playa Flamingo area of Playa Blanca. Featuring a selection of well appointed two bedroom two bathroom properties just a short walk from the beach.
Each property has been individually furnished – and all boast patios with sea views and extras such as English language satellite TV´s. Along with facilities such as barbecues, cookers, fridge freezers and safes.
The complex also boasts beautiful gardens along with a large communal swimming pool.
Villa Puerto Chico
Bedrooms :: Four
Bathrooms :: Three
Sleeps :: Up to nine people
Cost :: From £740 per week
For those seeking a little more luxury and space Puerto Chico is also home to a luxurious four bedroom villa which can accommodate up to nine people. Priced from £740 per week.
The villa has recently been re-decorated to a high standard – and enjoys its own private courtyard along with a double terrace that grants great sea views.
Villa Puerto Chico features a modern kitchen, spacious living and dining areas and all of the facilities you would expect from top end villa, such as satellite TV, fridge freezer, cooker, barbecue and safe.
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How do the main holiday companies and tour operators compare on price for holidays in Lanzarote this winter? Find out who is offering the best package deals. And is it cheaper to build your own break?
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Landmark? House museum? Restaurant? The Museo del Campesino fulfils all of these functions and more. Located right in the heart of the island, the Museo is a celebration of Lanzarote’s rural past. Providing visitors with an insight into Lanzarote´s traditional arts and crafts.
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With half term fast approaching, we take a look at holiday villas in Lanzarote that are specifically designed with children in mind. And that also offer top quality accommodation for their parents too.
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Lanzarote Holidays :: Alternative Accommodation
Wednesday September 24, 2008 
Lanzarote offers a wealth of conventional holiday accommodation, but for those who are looking for something a little more out of the ordinary there are plenty of excellent alternatives out there to hotels, holiday villas and apartments.
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The resort of Costa Teguise is home to some of the best quality hotels in Lanzarote. Which provide an ideal base for visitors looking to explore the islands key cultural and tourist attractions.
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Wednesday September 10, 2008
Holiday apartments in Puerto del Carmen offer a cost effective option for anyone seeking a bit of late summer sun. With prices starting from as little as £220 per week. And Lanzarote´s most popular resort offers visitors seeking to escape the dismal British weather plenty to do - combining golden sandy beaches with a large range of bars, clubs and restaurants.
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Lanzarote Holiday Villas :: Luxury Villas
Monday September 8, 2008 
The number of luxury holiday villas in Lanzarote available for rent has increased dramatically in recent years. As more overseas owners have entered the market – increasing competition and raising the standards of accommodation and amenities. Here we take a look at some of the plushest pads currently available.
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Lanzarote Hotels :: Beatriz Playa, Matagorda
Monday August 18, 2008 
The four star Beatriz Playa hotel in Matagorda offers guests a great beachfront location right in the heart of the resort. Which is in close proximity to nearby Puerto del Carmen but which has a character all of its own.
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Lanzarote Holiday Villas :: Old Town Puerto del Carmen
Wednesday August 13, 2008 
The Old Town harbour area of Puerto del Carmen is where tourism first took off on Lanzarote. Transforming what was once a small fishing village known locally as La Tiñosa into the islands most popular resort. And today holiday accommodation in this part of Puerto del Carmen is still in demand. Offering an ideal base for those who like to be at the heart of the action.
Read more ...
Lanzarote Holiday Apartments :: Playa Blanca
Monday August 11, 2008 
Holiday apartments in Playa Blanca are a hot favourite with visitors to the island. As Lanzarote´s second most popular resort enjoys a great micro-climate, fantastic beaches and breathtaking views across to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura.
Read more ...
