If you are looking for an exotic holiday destination that offers every amenity but is off the beaten path, Lanzarote is a real gem. Lanzarote is part of the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the western coast of North Africa. Lanzarote is the easternmost and fourth largest of the seven islands making up the chain, which was formed from volcanic activity ? some of which remains to this day.

With a sizable population of over 120,000, Lanzarote offers bustling urban resort centres as well as picturesque rural settings. Lanzarote's latitude makes it an ideal travel destination in either summer or winter. Winter temperatures in Lanzarote are only an average of 8 degrees cooler than in summer (21 degrees in January versus 29 degrees in August).

Holidays in Lanzarote

Holidays in Lanzarote offer activities for just about any type of traveller and for all ages. The island's stunning volcanic landscape (eruptions as recently as the 19th century have left a lunar-like appearance in many areas) and its rich history provide a generous selection of touring attractions.

With its year-round sunshine and clear azure waters, Lanzarote is also an ideal destination for SCUBA diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, sailing and fishing. Pristine beaches also cater to those who prefer a more relaxed schedule. Lanzarote also boasts two 18-hole golf course, as well as a water park and a range of other attractions for younger children.

What about accommodation?

Villas Lanzarote

Lanzarote has a large number of holiday villas available both in the major resort centres and in smaller rural settings.

It is becoming increasingly popular to rent a holiday villa rather than stay in more traditional holiday accommodation, as villas offer greater privacy, more space and a better opportunity to interact with the local community - to really absorb the Lanzarote experience.Many also come with private pools within their gardens.

Lanzarote Apartments

If a villa is a bit pricey, but you still want greater privacy and a more local experience than a hotel could provide, Lanzarote also has many holiday apartments available for rent at very affordable prices. A choice is also available here: in addition to resort-style complexes with all the usual facilities close at hand, there are also apartments in more local environments where you can soak up more of the real "island vacation" atmosphere.

Lanzarote Hotels

Of course, Lanzarote does have many quality hotels to choose from. Four and 5 start hotels and resort complexes offer every luxury and amenity for a pampered stay on this beautiful island.

Getting Around - Car Hire Lanzarote

Hiring a car in Lanzarote is, like everything else, surprisingly affordable, and really is a must if you plan on exploring the island. And you do want to explore the island. Many major international car rental companies are represented in Lanzarote, and there are also many local firms to choose from.

A couple of pointers for those who do hire a car:

1. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road;

2. Many petrol stations offer manned service ? look around before filling the tank yourself

3. Police are rigorous in the application of traffic laws, so make sure everyone is always wearing their seat belts, carry your passport and driving license at all times, do not speed and definitely do not drink and drive.

Enjoy!

For those acquainted with it, Lanzarote is really a no-brainer decision as a travel destination. Many return year after year. The consistently perfect weather conditions, affordability of just about everything and the plethora of activities and attractions all make for an exotic and unrivalled holiday destination that won't break the bank.

Few other destinations can make such a guarantee. Do yourself a favour, make sure Lanzarote is on your short list the next time you are choosing a summer or winter holiday spot.