Top Driving Tours in Lanzarote
Lanzarote is the most eastern of Spain’s Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean and positioned just 125km from the coast of Africa. The island is of volcanic origin, and was created from many violent eruptions and the evidence remains today, with solidified lava streams and extraordinary rock formations being commonplace on the island.
We have compiled a list of the top driving tours you can enjoy while staying in Lanzarote. Interested? Read on for more…
The South Volcanic Driving Tour
What could be better than a driving tour in the area of a National Heritage Site? Especially throughout an lunar landscape area that was formed out of volcanic eruptions many years ago! The recommended route is by driving through Yaiza through to Playa Blanca and then to the magnificent salt areas of “Salinas de Janubio”. From here, take the coast road that winds through the lava fields and make your way to Los Hervideros, where you can stroll along the paths where the waves battered the coastline, and the lava holes.
Keep along the coast and make your way to El Golfo, and take time to walk along the beaches or also the sea volcano and marvel at the wonderful green lagoon. There are some wonderful restaurants at El Golfo so it is a good spot to take a break for lunch or dinner.
As you leave El Golfo, make your way towards the Yaiza area and take the trek by road to the Fire Mountains or Montañas del Fuego. The visual setting is magnificent, and it’s a perfect spot for taking photos or video clips. Enjoy a camel trek around the Timanfaya National Park, or take a guided tour around the volcano area. There’s also an interpretive centre, where you can learn all about the history of volcanic activity on Lanzerote.
Find out more about Timanfaya National Park.
On the final leg of this driving tour you can explore the La Geria region which is located close to Timanfaya. You will be astounded at the vineyards which were cultivated in moon surface like areas. You will be able to stop and sample some Lanzarote wine along the Uga to San Bartolome roads – there are plenty of wine tasting establishments here.
Tour of the Mid Manrique Area
This tour incorporates a visit to the homeland of Cesar Manrique, famous Lanzarote artist and designer. Any tour of this area should begin at the Fundación at Tahiche, which is where the artist lived. Constructed on top of 5 volcanic bubbles that were designed into rooms.
To get to this famous house, from Arrecife follow the hill road to Teguise and take the third exit at the roundabout, towards San Bartolome and the house is on the right.
The influence of Manrique can be seen throughout the island – and you will see many traffic roundabouts with his wind sculptures.
Another drop off point that is recommended is Famara, his childhood home close to the sea at Caleta de Famara. The beach here is truly magical, a perfect place to rest and relax, and is huge in size so there is plenty of room for crowds!
As you head from Famara, check out the old island capital town of Teguise, and wander the winding cobbled streets with charming antique buildings, and the gift shops devoted to the work of Manrique. There is an excellent Sunday Market in the town to be enjoyed here also.
Find out more about Cesar Manrique.
Tour of the Green North
To tour the Green North follow the signs for the old capital town of Teguise and head north, you will pass through the charming village of Los Valles, and then onto Parque Eolico. As you travel further north you will come across the scenic and petite church of Ermita de las Nieves which lies on top of the Risco de Famara. It’s a good place to stop, enjoy the view, and have a break from driving. The road down to the Valley of Haria offers stunning views on every twist and turn of the road!
Haria has a wonderful Saturday Market that is well worth a look. Touring from Haria, you have access to many of the wonderful attractions of Lanzarote.
As you leave Haria, take the signs for Guinate and then the Mirador Del Rio. Mirador is right on the cliffs and affords you a wonderful view across the straight between Lanzarote and La Graciosa. From the same junction road you can head to Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes.
Known as the “Green Caves” this 6km long volcanic area is located close to Punta Mujeres. The islanders used to shelter here from pirate attacks throughout the years. The rock formations are breathtaking and well worth exploring for their attractiveness.
As you leave Punta Mujeres, follow the coast road along its front edge to Arrieta, and relax at Playa la Garita. You can head back on the main road to Tahiche, or turn off at Mala and make your way to Guatiza where you can enjoy the Jardin de Cactus, which was designed by Manrique. Set in an old disused quarry, there is a restored windmill and home to more than 1,000 varieties of cactus.
Find out more about Lanzerote Tourist Attractions.
So here it is – a guide to what we feel are the top driving tours that you can take while holidaying in Lanzarote. Obviously you will see so much more and enjoy the flexibility of what a hired car offers you so check out our Car Hire Lanzarote page.
Have you been to Lanzarote and enjoyed a driving tour of the island? What did you think of the attractions? If you have any travel advice and other suggested driving tours for enjoying what to see and do on the island please let us know – we appreciate your comments!