Lanzarote has long been the preserve of windsurfers, party goers and those seeking winter sunshine but what else can you expect to find on the easternmost member of the Canary Islands. If you’re looking for things to do and places to go in Lanzarote then read on as this is one island that never fails to deliver, no matter what your mobility, all year round.
Why Lanzarote?
For starters, Lanzarote has UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status which provides the local residents with reassurances that livelihoods and natural scenery will be preserved for as long as possible.
This means that everyone gets to enjoy the white walled fishing villages and aqua marine oceans safe in the knowledge that they won’t be bulldozed to make way for high rise hotels or mega shopping malls — making it easily accessible for everyone.
Secondly, there’s an excellent range of accessible accommodation as well as endless miles of paved promenades. This is great news and you’ll find myriad self-catering apartments, full-service hotels and traditional style bungalows all offering easy access just a few yards from the beach.
What food to try whilst in Lanzarote
Aside from the huge range of English and international restaurants, Lanzarote offers a great choice of regional cuisine. If you’re hoping to live like a local then dishes you simply must try include: Pescado a la Sal (salt baked fish) and Sancocho Canario (fish and potato stew) as well as a rich variety of freshly caught and cooked seafood. In general, local dishes are similar to southern Spain so expect to find plenty of tapas alongside a good selection of locally produced wines. Puerto del Carmen has the largest range of wheelchair accessible restaurants on the island.
Where to stay in Lanzarote
No matter what you look for in a holiday Lanzarote has something for everyone. Resorts such as Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise are ideal for making the most of swimming pools, beach life and loads of late night bars and restaurants. Quieter areas can be found without too much trouble and many of the most scenic natural spots are located towards the north of the island. All six of the main tourist destinations have accessible hotels, however, Costa Teguise does have the biggest selection if your are looking for something extra special! If you prefer to get out and about then Puerto del Carmen has the most accessible beach and promenade, offering beach wheelchairs and accessible toilets for any less mobile travelers.
What to do in Lanzarote
This island is an absolute playground for water sports enthusiasts, and if you have always fancied taking in a spot of diving then Lanzarote is home to accessible diving schools you can choose from. Aside from life below the ocean wave, Timanfaya National Park provides a spellbinding glimpse at Lanzarote’s arid volcanic landscapes, a coach takes you round the park so there is very little walking involved, which is great for tourists with reduced mobility.
If none of that is your cup of tea then there are plenty of gardens to spend a leisurely afternoon in or plenty of museums to explore when you want to escape the heat.
Lanzarote covers all bases and if you’re hoping to immerse yourself within the warm and welcoming island life then why not dive right in?
Images by vastateparksstaff and Son of Groucho used under the Creative Commons License.
Get in touch by messaging us on Facebook, tweeting us @DHorizons, emailing us at editor@disabilityhorizons.com or leaving your comments below.
