Spain Archives - Page 6 of 8

Top things to do in Majorca

September 18, 2017January 9, 2019

Touching down on Majorcan soil, you know you’re onto something special as soon as that first gust of warm Mediterranean air washes over you. Once you’ve acclimatised, a whole new world of adventure awaits. Want to know the best thing about it all? It’s all on the doorstep of your holiday villa.

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Visit Palma

As Mallorca’s capital, it makes sense to start with this historic city. Sat snugly in an eastern bay, Palma comprises ancient gothic cathedrals, quaint bars and restaurants, all overlooked by the iconic Bellver Castle. If you were into knights and dragons as a kid, you’ll love the circular turrets and walls that make up this fine Spanish fortress. Climb to the top and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views which stretch far out into the serene surrounding waters.

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Take a boat tour of the bay, and on your return, look out for La Seu cathedral. From land, these white spires are an impressive enough sight, yet from sea they make for another altogether. Once you’ve docked, why not pop in to revel in the building’s rich history?

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Swim in the sun

As one of Spain’s archipelagoes, the island has generous temperatures and sunshine throughout the year. If your holiday villa is lucky enough to have a pool, then this, and the combination of good weather, can make for some your happiest memories of Majorca. Dive in, swim a few lengths, before basking in the heat of the Spanish sun for the duration of the afternoon.

Visit your local market

Anyone who’s ever dined tapas will tell you that Spain is blessed with some of the finest cuisine in the world. The flavours behind such dishes are not just confined to the cupboards of the locals, however. Every Sunday, people from across Majorca flock to the markets of Puerto Pollensa. Here you’ll find everything from exquisite canvases to spices and locally cured meats. Staying in a self-catering villa? Take the opportunity to pick up some ingredients, and cook up a storm for the whole family to enjoy.

Majorcan watersports

Several kayak and canoe rental agencies operate across the island, so you’ll have no trouble exploring the island by boat. The north and east coast waters cater for all, and kayakers can stumble across glistening beaches perfect for getting that daily dose of vitamin D. Sometimes the Mediterranean Sea is just TOO inviting – what better way to cool off than some coastal diving? Not only is this a great family bonding activity, but it’s also the perfect way to see the ecosystems surrounding Majorca.

Hike the Serra de Tramuntana

The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range runs from the southwest to the northeast of Majorca. Navigate your way amongst the luscious shrubbery, before sitting back and enjoying the seaward views. The mountain strip itself is accessible from Palma, and covers roughly 30% of the island’s territory. Once you’ve conquered them, you’ll return with tales of the olive trees, terraces, and water mills that exemplify the range.

If you enjoyed this post, then here’s plenty of other ones for your holiday inspiration.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family-focus, and she is in the midst of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Your guide to Fuerteventura

September 11, 2017January 9, 2019

Fuerteventura is found in the blue waters of the Atlantic just 60 miles from the western edges of the Sahara Desert. The closest of the Canary Islands to Africa, Fuerteventura lies at the same latitude as Mexico and Florida, and as such is the lucky recipient of 3,00 hours of sunshine per year. Combine this wonderful weather with a coastline that draws in the crowds with more than 150 beautiful beaches, as well as a stunning volcanic interior and you have one of the finest destinations for a holiday no matter the season.

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Fuerteventura is an ever-popular hub for holiday makers as the island provides anyone who stays there with a rewarding holiday. With the resort town of Corralejo at the northern tip of the island and Morro Jable at the southern one; the otherworldly landscapes inland; tranquil sheltered coves; and plenty of windy shores ideal for watersports, the island packs a lot into its small size.

Despite being the second largest of the Canaries (after Tenerife) it is only the fourth largest in terms of population size. This gives the island a less developed feel compared to the smaller and more populous island of Lanzarote, which is only a 15-minute boat ride to the north, and you’re more than likely to find a stretch of white sandy beach all to yourself.

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Corralejo

For such a relatively compact island, there’s a lot of variety when it comes to Fuerteventura’s resorts. The most well-known resort town on the island is in the north at Corralejo. It is also the largest, and is replete with villas and self-catering accommodation perfect for any visitor. The area around the harbour is home to several seafood restaurants serving the freshest fish, and is a popular haunt for locals and tourists alike. If it’s shopping you’re after, head to Las Palmeras, the main retail hub in the area. Located there are shops selling everything from fashion to gifts for friends and family back home.

Along the eastern coastline down from Corralejo are several small resorts as well as secluded bays with calm waters just right for a swim. The main beaches in the area include Flag Beach, Glass Beach and the beach at Corralejo town. They’re all clean, safe and family-friendly.

Venture further inland past the sandy shores and shiny hotels and you’ll encounter a miniature extension of the nearby Sahara, with the sand dunes and desert vistas. This area comprises the Corralejo Nature Reserve and feels a world away from the nearby coast.

Past Corralejo and across the waters to the east you’ll find the Isla de Lobos. Lying between Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, the island makes a refreshing day trip for holidaymakers. Hop across the narrow channel and learn about the flora and fauna of the Canaries at this peaceful and picturesque protected wildlife preserve. The island’s main beach at Caleta de la Rasca boasts some of the clearest waters in all the Canaries. There’s also a small restaurant nearby to round off an excursion.

El Cotillo

A charming small fishing village, El Cotillo is one of the best places in Fuerteventura to call in at to experience real Canarian life. With a number of quality eateries, the reputation of the village for good food is growing, making it one of the best on the island for anyone who savours mealtimes as much as they do relaxation.

Thanks to its position on the west coast, the area around El Cotillo spoils watersports enthusiasts with superlative conditions for surfing and wind surfing anywhere on the island. This is especially true at local beaches Playa del Castillo and Playa del Águila. The area is also markedly less developed than other parts of Fuerteventura, proffering a pleasing blend of things to do and peace and quiet.

Costa Calma

Located on the sandy isthmus known as Istmo de la Pared that separates the main part of Fuerteventura with the mountainous Jandía peninsula, Costa Calma is blessed with some of the finest beaches and bluest seas on the island. Originally known as the small village of Cañada Del Rio, the resort was developed to have as minimal an impact on the surrounding landscape as possible. Costa Calma rewards you with a long, well-kept beach that leads into the gently lapping waters. With a range of villas to choose from, the area is growing in popularity as is the list of facilities available.

The resort also benefits from being right next door to the Jandía National Park that makes up the rest of the peninsula. The park contains Fuerteventura’s highest mountain, Mount Jandia, and presents lots of opportunities for hikes through its dramatic landscape.

Caleta de Fuste

Lying a short 10-minute drive from the airport on the east coast is Caleta de Fuste. This purpose-built resort town is one of the most genteel on the island and is infused with a delightfully laid back vibe, though it doesn’t lack quality bars and restaurants or other amenities either. The resort’s scenic cove is in fact man-made, not that you would be able to tell when you see its flawless setting on the shore.

Golfing in Fuerteventura

There are more golf courses in Fuerteventura than you can shake a club at, with the sport being one of the favourite pastimes of visitors and locals alike. The Fuerteventura Golf Club is one of the best, which can be attributed to its well-maintained 18 holes and beautiful ocean views. This course in Caleta de Fuste is ideally situated right next door to some of the best holiday rentals on the island. It’s also a former host of the Spanish Open, so you can be assured of its quality.

Las Playitas another sublime golf club. This scenic course has several waterways, transforming into a challenging green for any golfer regardless of their handicap. There is also a superb 9-hole course in Corralejo which is surrounded by holiday rentals, a viable and enticing option if you’re looking for a golfing holiday.

Things to do for kids

There’s no shortage of great bars, delicious restaurants and mellow beaches for grownups to have the perfect break on the island, but Fuerteventura comes into its own with its child-friendly and family-friendly activities.

With lots of things to keep kids of all ages entertained, you’ll have no worries about the little ones getting bored. Take them to Crazy Golf at the Baku Waterpark in Corralejo, or just let them run wild in the waterpark itself. If they fancy something a little faster paced, then there’s go karting available in the island’s capital, Puerto del Rosario. There’s also a horse riding school for equestrian-minded children. Alternatively, just let them have fun on one of the long beaches on the island.

Fuerteventura Watersports

Fuerteventura is well known as one of the best destinations out there for watersports. The coastline is varied, with peaceful bays for easy relaxation and more blustery stretches that serve up some fantastic waves. It’s no coincidence that the island has been home of the Windsurfing World Championship for the past 30 years!

The consistent wind speeds on the island create excellent conditions for windsurfing, surfing, and paragliding. With equipment hire available in most of the towns and resorts, you can make your holiday as you like.

Thanks to the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island is also a handy place to try your hand at some snorkelling or scuba diving. The diverse marine life of the Canaries is even more impressive up close, and exploring the environment in the warm waters is immensely invigorating. There are PADI instructors in Caleta de Fuste and Corralejo, and snorkelling equipment is available for hire across Fuerteventura.

The northern trade winds in the seas around Fuerteventura provide fine conditions for sailing as well, and by taking a sailing trip you have the chance to see the marine mammals that live in the waters. There are yachts available for chartering from the harbour in Corralejo.

No matter what type of holiday you want, you are likely to find it on this inviting Canary Island. If you’ve never been to Fuerteventura before, then it’s time to start planning your adventure!

By Arianne Fabrice, a travel journalist who specialises in the popular resort destinations in and around Europe. Having worked for some of Paris’ premium travel mags, she’s recently moved into English-language publications.

Why you should choose a holiday let next time you go to the Costa Blanca

September 8, 2017January 9, 2019

Home to 100 miles of gorgeous golden coast, it’s no wonder that the Costa Blanca is an old favourite with holiday-goers. If you fancy a Mediterranean getaway, choosing a holiday let is an ideal way to experience Spain’s southeastern coast from a fresh perspective.

A self-catering trip offers a wealth of opportunities that you won’t find if you stay in a hotel. Whether you’re heading to Benidorm to experience the nightlife, or you want to sunbathe and swim in Alicante, you’ll find the perfect rental home for you and your friends or family. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy:

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More freedom to plan your sightseeing itinerary

In a self-catering rental, you can come and go at all times of day, and you don’t need to worry about making it back in time for dinner. This means you’ll be able to pack in more activities, and explore all the Costa Blanca sights you want to see.

If you’re staying near Benidorm, why not pack a lunch and head out for a day of adventures at Serra Gelada Natural Park? Or, if you’ve got kids, take a trip to a theme park like Terra Mitica. With so much to see and do, it would be a shame to limit yourself to the pool in a hotel resort!

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A place to unwind at the end of the day

Holidays are lots of fun, but they can be tiring too. After a busy day of exploring, you’ll look forward to going home to your private villa. If you choose a rental with a pool, you can cool down in the water. Or, you might just want to put your feet up, grab a drink, and enjoy the sunset from your terrace.

As well as offering peace and privacy to relax in the evenings, a staying in a holiday let promises a quiet place to have a lie in if you want a lazy morning. You won’t be woken up by doors banging in the hallway, or noisy people in the room next door.

Lots of space for you and your belongings

In a self-catering villa, you’ll have enough space to rival even the best hotels on the Costa Blanca. You can unpack and store away your clothes in your bedroom, instead of living out of a suitcase.

With a separate kitchen and living area, you won’t feel cooped up if you decide to spend an afternoon inside. Best of all, if you’re travelling in a large group, you’ll still have a bit of personal space.

Explore the local region’s cuisine

All-inclusive package holidays might seem like a convenient option, but self-catering will save you money while still leaving you free to try lots of local food. You can dine out without worrying that a pre-paid meal will go to waste, and take the chance to find the best restaurants in Alicante.

Of course, having a kitchen also means you can cook a meal at home. You could purchase some fresh local ingredients and try making a specialty dish, like Paella Alicantina. Or, cook up one of your favourite meals from home if you find yourself craving comfort food.

Hidden gems of Lanzarote

August 30, 2017January 9, 2019

Lanzarote is diverse in every sense of the word. Many people travel here with their sights set on Arrecife, but after arriving you’ll immediately realise there’s far more to this beguiling island. Villa holidays in Lanzarote open you to a whole new world of adventures, here’s where you’ll find them all…

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Papagayo Beaches

Get off the beaten track and visit the side of the island left out of most tour brochures. A short drive from Playa Blanca are the beaches located on Lanzarote’s southern coast. They’re surrounded by volcanic hills, making for a series of pristine sands looking over the Atlantic Ocean. Lanzarote’s unique biosphere means that even a simple walk to the beach exposes you to otherworldly landscapes – perfect for Instagram or Facebook!

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Mirador del Río

The best thing about villas in Lanzarote, is they’re never far from viewpoints which are worth travelling for alone. Travel to the north to Mirador del Río, an iconic hilltop viewpoint nearly 500 metres above sea level. Walk along dusty mountain roads, bypassing quiet villages before reaching the summit. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the straits of El Rio and the coastline surrounding it. Once you’re back in the comforts of your villa holiday rental, put your feet up and enjoy a well-earned glass of wine.

Museo Atlántico

Lanzarote’s Underwater Museum, also known as Museo Atlántico, is an underwater sculpture museum on the island’s southern seaboard. Divers are given guided tours of the statues made by sculptor Jason deCaires, famous for his underwater models. As well as being one of Lanzarote’s most recent star attractions, the Museo Atlántico’s works focus on eye-opening, poignant issues, like the migration crisis. The museum is located in protected waters, 15 metres underwater. After a visit here, you’ll never say museums are boring ever again!

Timanfaya National Park

Lanzarote is the byproduct of years of volcanic activity – this becomes clear when visiting Timanfaya National Park. Formed hundreds of years ago as by lava and molten rock, this region is every bit as arid as it was days after the eruption. Walking through here is as close as it gets to prehistoric times, minus the dinosaurs and flaming molten rock! The park is accessible from southern Lanzarote towns such as Matagorda, yet is a far cry from their bustling bars and restaurants.

Matagorda Beach

Although Lanzarote’s climate is renowned for sun and generally fair weather, it’s gifted with Atlantic waves which are perfect for windsurfing. Matagorda attracts surfers of all levels, and has a wealth of instructors to get help you get your feet on the board. If you’re already experienced, there are rental agencies are available to kit you out. Tackling these waves works your appetite, so once you’re home be sure to cook up a storm in your self-catering villa.

Whether you’ve planned your trip months in advance, or simply fancy a last-minute holiday to Lanzarote, the island caters for all tastes. Delve a little deeper, and you’ll uncover a side to this Canary gem adored by many.

If you enjoyed this article, why not read another?

By Ciaran Brooks. A former history graduate, Ciaran Brooks’ love for old stories has led him around the world. A self-confessed adventurer, he fell into travel writing after his blog chronicling his year in Thailand was picked up by a national paper.

Why you should choose a villa holiday let in Majorca

August 25, 2017January 9, 2019

Majorca attracts families, couples and party-goers to its balmy shores. Many holidaymakers visit the Balearic island every year for a whole host of reasons. From simple beach relaxation to thrilling cycling routes, the island is loved by people who know what they want from their travels. But even the best hotels in Majorca can’t compete with the freedom that a holiday villa in Majorca provides. Avoid the crowded resorts and, instead, opt for the tranquillity of a villa with a private garden and pool and enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

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It’s a base for adventurers

Active holidaymakers will appreciate the handy amenities that are available in Majorca holiday villa lets. It may be hiking, kayaking or scuba diving in Majorca that excites you, you can focus on planning your next adventure while enjoying your villa’s facilities. Cook an impressive packed lunch on your very own BBQ or take a dip in the private pool to relax your muscles and you’ll be glad that you chose a holiday rental villa. There should also be plenty of drying space for wetsuits and swimming costumes too. So, don’t worry about squeezing into wet swimwear!

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Pick a location to suit your holiday

Want to be within walking distance of the beach? Or would you prefer a romantic, remote property? Perhaps you need at least six bedrooms? Luckily, there are plenty of villas to rent in Majorca across the island and each location has something unique to offer. Cala San Vincente is the smallest resort in Majorca and a favourite destination for peace seekers and avid divers. Dive into your own Majorca villa and find out what you love about the island

Majorca villas can come with extra space

One of the best things about staying in a villa in Majorca is the advantage of extra space. Planning on seeing the island by car? Pick a property with a garage or parking space and explore to your heart’s content without the additional cost of parking.

Are you a keen cyclist? Then you can make the most of the remarkable cycling routes in Majorca without having to worry about where to keep your rented bike. If you want a great bike route choose somewhere in Pollenca, and attempt the circular East Tramuntana Epic Ride which begins and ends in Pollenca and covers over 100 miles!

It’s ideal for families on a budget

Choosing a self-catering villa holiday option is also a fantastic way to ensure that your family sticks to a holiday budget. Having key items like milk, eggs and cheese in your villa’s fridge means that there’s always something quick and inexpensive to eat. Enjoying a few of your main meals from the comfort of your Majorcan villa will make a huge difference to the amount of money you spend on food. Whether you cook a home favourite, use the BBQ or try your hand at some classic Majorcan tapas dishes, cooking as a family is a great bonding exercise that’s sure to become one of your favourite holiday memories.

Why you should choose a villa holiday let in Majorca

August 25, 2017January 9, 2019

It’s a base for adventurers

Pick a location to suit your holiday

Majorca villas can come with extra space

It’s ideal for families on a budget

Why you should choose a holiday let next time you go to Tenerife

August 21, 2017January 9, 2019

The enviable climate and endless beaches of the Canary Islands have been attracting visitors for years. Resorts in Tenerife offer one of the most alluring holiday options, promising package holiday comfort and convenience all year round. But if you fancy freedom, independence, and flexibility, you should consider a holiday rental on your next trip to Tenerife.

Outside of the boundaries of a hotel or resort, you are more likely to explore further and experience this well-trodden island from a whole new perspective. Still need more convincing? Here are some reasons why self-catering accommodation is a fantastic option:

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You don’t have to skimp on luxury

Finding a hotel to fit your budget and needs often means making sacrifices, because no resort has it all. With holiday lets, you’ll have a wealth of options at your fingertips, and you’ll find luxury to rival even the best hotels in Tenerife.

Whether you want a villa with a pool, an apartment with a seafront balcony, or a terrace nestled in the mountaintops, there will be something for you. In your own private space, you can unwind and relax without worrying about loud neighbours or noisy crowds.

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You can set yourself up for an adventure

This Canary Island is so much more than a sunbathing destination. With routes ranging from scenic roads to mountain tracks, cycling in Tenerife is a great way to get more active on your holiday. If you’d rather stay on your own two feet, the island offers superb hiking opportunities, not least the chance to climb Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain.

By staying in a holiday rental, you won’t be restricted by hotel meal times and activity schedules. You can come and go as you please, making it the perfect option if you’ll be spending long days exploring on foot or by bike.

Choose from a wider range of locations

If you want to stay close to the bustling resorts where restaurants, bars, and fun activities await, you can. You’ll find lots of self-catering accommodation options in popular areas, such as the lively Playa de las Americas. For a more upmarket experience, you could choose the nearby Costa Adeje.

Alternatively, holiday rentals also offer you the option of choosing a location more off the beaten track. You might find your perfect secluded beach villa, or a house in a quaint Canary village.

Tailor your holiday to suit your group

Travelling to Tenerife with a group of friends? With the flexibility to choose exactly how many rooms and beds you want, without breaking the budget, you can enjoy comfort that you won’t find in a tiny hotel room. Or, if you’re going on a family trip, you can look for a holiday let with a private garden for the kids to play in.

Accommodation rentals are also a great choice for a couples holiday. You’ll have privacy and your own kitchen to cook in, which is perfect if you feel like swapping a night out for a romantic meal at home.

Your Guide to Lanzarote

August 16, 2017January 9, 2019

In many ways, Lanzarote wrote the book when it comes to the classic beach holiday. Even with four decades as one of Europe’s premier tourist destinations behind it, Lanzarote is still able to surprise and delight. The third-most populated and fourth-largest Canary Island offers miles of pristine beaches, a starkly beautiful volcanic interior, as well as a vibrant island culture.

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With such a well-established tourist industry and pleasant year-long climate it can be tempting to while away the days lounging by the pool. And while you should always make time for relaxation on holiday, venturing beyond the resorts and waterparks will reveal a richly cultured and uniquely beautiful island.

Visit craters, towering massifs, sand dunes, otherworldly volcanic plains, and sky high viewpoints that will take your breath away. These natural wonders inspired the work of famed local son, Cesar Manrique, who helped to meld the look and style of Lanzarote’s major tourist attractions with the island’s landscape. Lanzarote may be the home of the package holiday, but that doesn’t mean that any two holidays to this beguiling island need to be the same.

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Arrecife

Less than 150,000 people live on Lanzarote, and over fifty thousand of them live in the island’s capital Arrecife. Literally “reef” in Spanish, Arrecife takes its name from the reef that surrounds the city’s coast. Very much a working city, Arrecife is less tourist focused than the resort towns of Costa Teguise and Playa del Carmen, but it is still packed with plenty to do.

Visit the Castillo de San José and enjoy the collection of modern art housed in an 18^th century fortress. Alternatively, take a walk to the 16th century Castillo de San Gabriel fort. Found on a small man-made island at the end of a causeway connected to the harbour, the fort houses a museum which chronicles the history of Lanzarote.

Costa Teguise

The island’s former capital remains a popular tourist hub. Located around the scenic central beach, Teguise was designed and built with tourism in mind. That means the town is well-served and amenity rich, making it the perfect place for a holiday. While typifying a Canarian resort town, it lays claim to a long and storied history dating back 500 years. The town also boasts a very large Sunday market, ideal for bargain hunters and those looking to take a piece of Lanzarote home with them. Teguise is well stocked with first-rate restaurants and has a popular aquarium, too.

Another site you should see is the Cesar Manrique Foundation. Here you can explore Manrique’s house, located in several volcanic bubbles and designed by Manrique himself. You can learn all about the man and his legacy of preserving Lanzarote’s culture in the adjoining museum.

Puerto del Carmen

Lanzarote’s main tourist town is the first port of call for new tourists to the island. Over a million people a year make their holiday plans in Puerto del Carmen, and when you see the beautiful seafront and range of things do it is easy to see why. While it certainly has a package-holiday vibe, you can enjoy a taste of the real Lanzarote by taking a stroll from the Old Town to the El Varadero harbour.

Playa Blanca

A more tranquil corner of Lanzarote, Playa Blanca is where people come to get away from it all. Located on the southern tip of the island and within sight of Fuerteventura, the town is a marked contrast from the noisier tourist towns of Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise.

It also has the highest temperatures on Lanzarote and due to its local geography, it is more sheltered from the wind than anywhere else. However, it is the beautiful Papagayo beach that is the biggest draw to Playa Blanca. The warm emerald green water of the beach its perfect for a dip, and provides a safe place for children to enjoy a little snorkelling.

La Graciosa

La Graciosa is a small island found off the north coast of Lanzarote. With only a few hundred inhabitants this is as quiet a slice of Canarian life as you’ll find. The island’s serene beaches are also some of the finest anywhere in the Canaries. The ever popular La Francesca Beach is the most scenic of all with crisp white sands, blue seas and breath-taking views of Lanzarote across the water.

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While always worth a visit, most tourists know La Graciosa from the incredible views of it from the famous Mirador del Rio. The Mirador del Rio viewpoint was designed by Cesar Manrique and affords incredible views over La Graciosa and the Atlantic Ocean. It also has a café bar where you can enjoy a drink while you take in the unbeatable vista.

Things to do with the kids

Lanzarote is an island bursting with kid-friendly activities. As a well-developed tourist destination, it should come as no shock that there is no end to the family-friendly fun on offer.

Submarine Safari

The biodiversity in the waters surrounding the Canary Islands are among the archipelago’s finest jewels, and thanks to Submarine Safari you can see them up close. Kids are sure to marvel at the adventure of boarding a submarine, and the chance to see the marine ecosystem beneath the waves will entertain and educate them, and you!

Timanfaya National Park

Away from the beaches, Lanzarote’s landscape presents a different kind of beauty. Thanks to the island’s volcanic history, there is a magically otherworldly interior to explore. The best place to do this is Timanfaya National Park which is replete with incredible geological formations like craters, volcanic tunnels, sand dunes, and ash covered plains. For an even more unique experience that the kids will love, tour the park on a Camel Safari!

Aqua Park Costa Teguise

There’s nothing kids enjoy more than making a splash, and Aqua Park Costa Teguise is the perfect place to do it. With sections designed for toddlers, and plenty of slides and flumes for older children, the whole family can have fun at this popular water park. There are even sun beds for the adults to relax on while the kids go wild. Just make sure you don’t forget your sunscreen as the time will fly!

Rancho Texas

It might not be the most authentic Canarian experience on the island, but Rancho Texas is certainly among the most fun. With both a water park and a zoo on offer, there is plenty to entertain kids of all ages. Located in Puerto del Carmen, Rancho Texas remains one of the most popular tourist attractions on Lanzarote and lets you enjoy a flavour of the Wild West. Be sure to visit on Country Night and try your hand at lassoing and country dancing while you tuck into the buffet BBQ!

Recipe for delicious tumbet mallorquin

August 11, 2017January 9, 2019

A self-catering holiday doesn’t mean you have to forgo the cuisine of your destination. In fact, by learning a few recipes you can enjoy the flavours of where you are and have a new recipe to bring home! To help you savour the real taste of Majorca, we’ve found one of the island’s tastiest dishes and put together a quick, and simply mouth-watering, recipe for you to try.

Delicious Majorcan cuisine

Local Favourite tumbet mallorquin is a delightfully simple vegetarian dish, perfect for enjoying by the terrace of your Majorcan villa on a summer evening. Like most Mediterranean recipes, the dish benefits from the freshest ingredients – it’s lucky the local produce is just so good! Think ratatouilleor pisto, but with added potatoes and individually fried vegetables. There are few dishes better able to showcase Majorca’s tastiest locally grown veg.

What you’ll need –

Two large potatoes
One zucchini
One aubergine
One red pepper
One green pepper
One onion
Three tomatoes (one tin of chopped tomatoes will do)
Five garlic cloves
Rosemary
Thyme
Olive oil
Flour
Salt
Bay leaves
Sugar

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Instructions

First, preheat the oven to 180°C. Choose a large pot and begin frying the garlic cloves in the olive oil. Now throw in the tomatoes, bay leaves, rosemary, thyme as well as a good sprinkling of salt and sugar. This will make the tomato sauce. While this simmers away, wash the other vegetables. A key aspect of tumbet mallorquin is that the main ingredients are all fried separately in the same oil one after the other.

First off is the zucchini. Make sure it is thinly sliced, then add it to a pan with hot oil. Once the zucchini is golden brown take it out of the pan and let it rest on a paper towel to absorb the excess oil. Now do the same with the aubergine. Slice it thinly, frying it in the same oil used with the zucchini and place it on another paper towel once done. Repeat with the potatoes.

The next step is to cut the red and green peppers into rings and fry them, too. Finally, chop the onion into thick strips before frying it in the oil. Now it’s time to assemble the meal. Take a large casserole dish and begin by creating a layer of potatoes at the the bottom, followed by the onions. Add on the zucchini, then the eggplant and finally the peppers.

Next take your tomato sauce, cover the vegetables and bake the dish for around 15 to 20 minutes. After that, you’re ready to tuck in! This dish is as delicious cold as it is hot, so why not save some for a cold snack the next day?

Feeling inspired by this article? Why not take a look at our villas?

By Imogen Bishop, a part time travel writer, part time restaurant critic, and full time mum. She has an affinity for Mediterranean cuisine and can usually be found in the kitchen with a bottle of olive oil in hand.

Why a holiday let is ideal for a Lanzarote break

August 4, 2017January 9, 2019

Lanzarote has been a go-to package holiday destination for years. You pick a resort, you choose all-inclusive or half board, and right away you have a hassle-free holiday ready for you. But is staying in a catered resort really the best way to experience the Canaries?

Well, Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape is ripe with opportunities for adventure, from hiking over craters to exploring lava tunnels to scuba diving off the coast. Choosing a self-catered holiday let on this Canary Island is an ideal way to make the most of these opportunities during your trip. Here’s four reasons why…

Image by alfaltendorf, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY SA 2.0)

1. You’ll have more freedom

Without the limitations set by resort mealtimes, you’ll have much more freedom when it comes to your holiday itinerary. Whether you want to be up and out at sunrise, or enjoy a brunch after a long lie in, you won’t be missing out on any pre-paid breakfasts.

Image by alfaltendorf, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY SA 2.0)

Furthermore, holidaying in a resort might tempt you to stay in one place or just lounge in comfort by the pool. In rental accommodation, you’re more likely to venture further afield and see everything that Lanzarote has to offer. With gorgeous scenery and interesting attractions wherever you go, it would be a shame not to explore!

2. You can get a taste for local cuisine

Lanzarote is bursting with restaurants that you’ll miss out on if you’re staying in catered accommodation. From rustic Canarian eateries like Meson La Frontera in the village of Haria, to sophisticated dining in La Tegala near Puerto del Carmen, there are loads of places to enjoy Lanzarote’s finest food.

If you don’t feel like eating out, you’ll also have a well-equipped kitchen in your rental home. Head to the nearest supermarket to buy ingredients and you can cook your own meals. Whether you make familiar favourites from home, or experiment with local dishes like papas arrugadas, cooking is the perfect option if you fancy a night in.

3. The money you save can be spent on experiences

The chance to bag a cheap holiday in Lanzarote is one of reasons why this island is so popular with visitors, and with holiday rentals, there is plenty of scope for great bargains. The base cost of a self-catering villa is a fraction of a hotel. This makes holiday lets ideal for longer holidays, or trips for families or large groups.

Best of all, you can spend the money you’ve saved on experiences that you’ll remember. Why not hire bikes and enjoy the island’s cycling routes? Or go for a camel ride in Timanfaya National Park? There are plenty of memorable ways to enjoy the island.

4. You can unwind in comfort at the end of the day

After an action-packed day, you can return to your villa to relax in luxury. Lounge by your private pool, or sip drinks on the terrace in the evening sun. Instead of being crammed into a hotel room, you’ll have plenty of space – which is particularly great if you’re travelling as a family.

By Arianne Fabrice, a travel journalist who specialises in the popular resort destinations in and around Europe. Having worked for some of Paris’ premium travel mags, she’s recently moved into English-language publications.