We are walking in the mar de lava – sea of lava – where massive blankets of solidified lava lie at the foots of Montanya Blanca, Lanzarote. I confess: I’ve become quite a volcano buff after seeing hot molten lava flowing off Guatemala’s most active volcano, Volcan Pacaya.
There’s no sign of red burning lava flowing here, the volcano has after all been dormant for the past three hundred years. But there’s more to Lanzarote than bubbling lava. The volcanic activities have also created some of the island’s most interesting nature spots in the form of outlandish formations, oddly-coloured lagoons and savagely wild beaches.
Timanfaya National Park
There’s nothing more thrilling for a volcano buff than seeing the remnants from an earth-shaking eruption: still covering the entire Timanfaya National Park with black, tar-like, earth bowels. Driving through the volcanic area, you’ll find yourself in the midst of ashes that stack up as tall as a tour bus, and grazing the top of a volcano crater.
In the 1700s, the fiery volcano had exploded into life, spewing deadly lava, killing many and nearly destroying life on Lanzarote. Today, it is one of the most visited spots in Lanzarote, and rightfully so, with a rich geographical value that comes with it. The Restaurant El Diablo, once again designed by Cesar Manrique, sits at the park’s visitor center.
A demonstration outside El Diablo restaurant
El Golfo
The volcanic black sand sprawling across a backdrop of edgy rocky cliffs is the setting for several futuristic films. El Charco de los Clicos, a lime-green lagoon creates a stark contrast to the sea and surroundings. The lagoon gets its greenish colour from the algae that grows within the lake.
El Charco de los Clicos
Los Hervidores
Along the coast from El Golfo, the enchanting cliffs of Los Hervidores are a collection of naturally formed caves and inlets, a result of the tumultous waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Gazing down at the blowholes in the volcanic rocks, you can spot the island’s semi-precious mineral Olivine in abundance.
Cuevas de los Verdes
This extensive underground volcanic tunnel, running over six kilometers long, is a result of the eruptive activity of nearby La Corona Volcano. The unique extra-terrestial-like interior of the tunnel awes visitors with sky-high ceilings and lava channels. Potholes are filled with waters so calm you can see the tunnel’s roof reflected immaculately on its surface.
Playa Papagayo
This assemblage of coves and virgin beaches can only be reached via a dirt road or hike – which perhaps is the reason why they are kept in pristine conditions. The crystal clear waters and variety of hiking opportunities on the cliff’s edge makes the stretch of naturally formed beaches some of the best on the island.
Where to Stay
Los Zocos Club Resort offers all-inclusive packages with a variety of facilities suitable for couples and families. I particularly liked the fully-equipped apartment style accommodation. Just 150m from the beach, it’s located in Costa Teguise, one of the calmer towns on the island. Expect tranquility, nature and fun.
If you’re heading to Lanzarote, here’s a list of top Lanzarote hotels.
Disclaimer: My current six-day stay in Lanzarote is hosted by Los Zocos Club Resort and Hotels4u.com.
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The volcanic black sand against the green of the lagoon is magnificent. This would be an absolute wonder in real I am envious and would welcome visiting here if and when I can organize such an adventure.
I must admit I have not seen so many glorious photographs of volcanic travel spots. I must convince my manager that this is the place for us to next do a review. Just beautiful, yet haunting.
Timanfaya National Park that Volcano is just amazing. The colors in these photographs are brilliant. The second photograph in this series is particularly beautiful and haunting.
Thanks Lucy for such kind comments, Lanzarote really stands out for its natural beauty, especially the Timanfaya National Park.
Great post Nellie. Lanzarote is a definitely a beautiful place and you've done it proud with this post and some great photos!