From the moment you set foot on this island, affectionately known as the Island of Fire, you are welcomed into a blissful paradise filled with tropical plants, volcanic rock, sandy beaches, and warm temperatures. After spending seven days on this beautiful island, I can confidently say that Lanzarote is a stunning destination, rich in culture and natural beauty.

The island was formed by volcanic eruptions over 15 million years ago. As these eruptions cooled and solidified, they created the foundations of the land. Since that time, major changes have occurred in the island’s original shape due to the active volcanoes that still cover it today. One major eruption led to the creation of Timanfaya National Park in the 18th century. The volcanic material is celebrated throughout Lanzarote, with buildings constructed from this versatile rock, as well as paths, steps, tiles, ornaments, and decorations. It is striking to see this material not only forming the foundation of the island but also contributing to its infrastructure, creating a sense of harmony throughout the landscape.

The island’s desert climate allows for a wide variety of tropical plants to flourish. The vibrant colours of these plants create a stunning contrast against the white buildings that dot the landscape. My personal favourite during this trip was Bougainvillaea, a climbing plant that comes in vibrant shades of pink, purple, red, and orange. This plant thrives on the island, having adapted well to the windy conditions. The official plant of Lanzarote, Taibaba Dulce, can also be found throughout the island. Depending on its environment, this species can grow as either a shrub or a low tree. The flora of Lanzarote serves as a remarkable example of nature’s resilience, bringing colour and beauty to the land.

Fresh seafood is a signature dish of the island, and it quickly became my favourite during the stay. With the ocean as a close neighbour, Lanzarote is renowned for its fresh prawns, squid, octopus, and local fish, all caught daily. I had fresh squid for the first time during this trip, accompanied by a lightly spiced sauce that perfectly complemented the dish—a delightful experience I will sorely miss back in England.

During my snorkelling adventures, I found the waters abundant with fish in the many coves I explored. I was fortunate to see parrotfish in a dazzling array of colours, along with baby pufferfish, a young barracuda, a pair of stingrays, and many other sea creatures. The clear waters were teeming with marine life, creating a breathtaking experience which I enjoyed as much as possible.

Overall, my visit to Lanzarote was truly delightful. The locals were friendly, the wildlife was stunning, and the seas were alive with activity. It was a beautiful and relaxing trip, and I am eager to return.