With a climate similar to the desert it is small surprise that the island of Lanzarote has become such a popular holiday hotspot. This Canarian volcanic outcrop has an exceptionally low level of rainfall annually and boasts warm temperatures throughout the year.
These factors are what attract almost one million holidaymakers a year to visit. But despite the huge number of people who decide to come for a break to the island, it never loses its laidback and relaxed atmosphere.
In part, this is due to an extremely well planned tourist infrastructure, which keeps the action confined to certain parts of the island, whilst the rest remains untouched in a rural idyll. With the vast majority of tourists billeted in one of the three main resorts, there are still quiet beaches and villages to explore.
Many first time visitors, not knowing what to expect, may well find themselves in one of the numerous Lanzarote apartments that form the mainstay of tourist accommodation in Puerto del Carmen. But generally even here, the apartments are of a good standard and provide a peaceful place to stay.
This is largely due to the strict planning which has stopped high rise buildings from dominating the island, especially close to the coastline. Instead, there are low rise blocks of apartments and hotels, none taller than a palm tree, with many surrounded by tropical plants and flowers.
And obviously the same building controls apply to Lanzarote villas which are increasingly popular with holidaymakers, as the surest way to guarantee total peace and quiet. As well as a much more personalised experience of the island, courtesy of the many homely touches that these properties are finished with.
Aside from the pursuit of relaxation, there is actually a wealth of activities on offer. With everything from horse riding, golf, sailing and surfing for the active visitor, whilst those who are more interested in the culture and history will find an excellent range of attractions to visit.
Such as the amazing Cactus Garden, where over 1,400 different types of this spiny species can be seen. Created out of a former quarry, the garden has many unique details dreamt up by its designer, the artist César Manrique.
Manrique is credited with putting Lanzarote on a different trajectory of tourist development, something that is still in evidence today. And by arranging car hire in Lanzarote visitors will find it very easy to discover Manrique´s world for themselves.