Saint Valentine’s plans in Lanzarote

By Luke Durden in Lanzarote

Journey to the heart of a volcano, walk though attractive paths of lava, discover the immaculate paradise of La Graciosa…. Lanzarote is the perfect island to travel to at any time of the year but it is without a doubt the most romantic destination where you can enjoy Saint Valentine’s day, away from everything and everybody. Just for two.  The possibilities for couples on this spectacular, natural volcanic island start with varied active tourism, both mountains or beach or the cultural, more traditional or gastronomic.

Lanzarote is one of the most well preserved of the whole Canarian archipelago.  Haven for those looking for tranquillity and the sun, open for visitors are numerous museums, interpretation of nature centres, outstanding landscapes and charming small historic villages where you can try the typical wrinkled potatoes (papas arrugas) with a spicy sauce (mojo picon), fried fish, marinated tuna, Canarian fish (Los Gueldes), or chickpeas stew.

Atlantic Gardens hotel in Playa Blanca

Atlantic Gardens hotel in Playa Blanca

For a relaxing afternoon, the best suggestion is to spend some time in Playa Blanca.  If your hotel is on this coast of Lanzarote, perfect because you can walk along the maritime promenade, try a cocktail at the Cafe del Mar, check out the new marina, treat yourself at one of many boutiques, walk around the centre or enjoy a romantic dinner.  In Playa Blanca you will find some of the most exclusive accommodation for couples on the island.  Outstanding for their sunsets are the Villas Coral Deluxe, villas at the foot of the volcano Montana Roja and the luxury hotel in Las Coloradas run by the group Sandos Hotels and Resorts.

Some of those which have the best offers for couples and are preparing special offers for Saint Valentine’s day in Lanzarote are Marconfort bungalows for Adults Only in Playa Blanca and also some of the Barcelo Hotel and Resorts chain and Iberostar situated in the area near to the Marina Rubicon and the famous Las Coloradas beach.

A visit to the island of La Graciosa and some of her smaller sisters is one of the most romantic trips you can make in Lanzarote.  This archipelago is near to Lanzarote and boasts enormous virgin beaches with fine white sand and water that reminds you of the Caribbean.

Rent a car and visit the Timanfaya National Park, practice hiking, swim at one of the hidden coves or eat at one of the mountain villages, these are some of the amusing proposals that you can enjoy in one of the most beautiful natural areas of the island.

To visit Lanzarote and enjoy the best atmosphere all you need to do is rent a car and visit Puerto del Carmen or Arrecife:  cafe Chill Out La Ola, or the Blue Mar, with its terrace opposite the sea, and the disco Aqua.  Romantic dinners in Yaiza, at the picturesque restaurant, El Almacen de la Sal, one of the most famous in Lanzarote and the traditional Amura or the innovative La Cocina de Colacho.

Benidorm gets an update

By Esther in Destination

Nothing ever surprises, or almost anything. There are few things we haven’t already seen in this century, but sometimes we get surprised: I never thought I would even think of recommending it, but after talking to some friends who assure it is worth it… I have decided to leave a door open and give it an opportunity. It is said that Benidorm is being renovated, and that the most consolidated destination in Spain is becoming a new moneymaker for family holidays at an affordable price and with an added value, modern services and a juvenile atmosphere!

Marconfort Hotels in Benidorm

Marconfort Hotels in Benidorm

Well, sorry about my scepticism, but it has taken me time to accept it. However, there are some facts that make me think maybe now thinks are really changing and the hotel sector of the area has seen the writing on the wall and has gotten cracking. If that is true, I really support them. As a traveler mother I would love to see how one of our most beautiful coasts recovers its charm, becomes a destination for quality tourism and aims at giving an excellent service to its visitors.

I admit this is not going to happen overnight, but it is happening quickly. One of the things that has surprised me the most is, for example, the philosophy of this hotel in the centre of Benidorm: design rooms and suites close to Levante beach, special services for families (including laundry!), free internet access in the common areas of the hotel, entertainment for children…

Marconfort Benidorm Suites Hotel

Marconfort Benidorm Suites Hotel

This idea truly differs from the concept I had in mind of an accommodation in Benidorm (leaving 5-star accommodation apart, of course), and I think I could even spend a pleasant week there with my children. It is true that Levante beach is one of the most crowded beaches in Spain during summer, but it is also true that one of the advantages of Benidorm is that it is a lively all-year-round destination and the climate is perfect for those who are searching for a bit of sun and relax in a different location.

Benidorm is being updated, and as the hotel we have already mentioned, there are many accommodations that are investing in change, in design spaces, and most importantly, in much more specialised services designed for the different guests they may accommodate. I include the capital of Costa Blanca in the list of my possible trips. Maybe it is not my first destination, but it is there: everyone deserves an opportunity, isn’t it?