The sunbleached island of Lanzarote has been on my radar for a long time – and I think I’ve found the perfect base for exploring its wild side.
The easternmost of the Canary Islands has been on my travel bucket list for years for its unique volcanic landscapes – sometimes harsh and arid but incredibly striking (it’s no wonder it’s a haven for artists), dotted with cacti and edged by beaches with crystal clear warm waters. Lanzarote does have sprawling resorts and a busy beaten tourist track, but if you head north you’ll find a more wild and peaceful island – and Lanzarote Retreat‘s Finca de Arrieta. This family-run eco-village is all about sustainable glamping and is perfect for lovers of barefoot luxury.
Places to stay: Lanzarote Retreats Review
‘Glamping’ might actually be doing this lovely farm a disservice – at Finca de Arrieta there’s a cluster of 21 decked-out places to stay to choose from, ranging from yurts to cottages and cabins and even a surf shack. They all surround an aqua-blue solar-heated pool, plus there’s a an honesty shop and communal kitchen on-site. You can also visit the farm’s friendly donkeys for a cuddle or grab a few organic eggs from the flock of chickens. And while the vibe is pleasingly laid back here, the helpful staff are full of ideas for island adventures, and can help you organise hybrid car hire, water sports, yoga sessions and guided hikes.
We stayed in the Eco Chiquitita, a huge Mongolian yurt perfect for two and decked out with a huge bed and kooky furniture finds. There’s also a mini yurtlet great for kids or a third adult next door. Each yurt or cabin sits within its own private walled space, including a big indoor/outdoor kitchen great for serving up snacks or making sundowners, a private bathroom, a barbeque and a hammock or two to chill out in, ideally with the lovely resident cat for company. There are also lovely extra touches such as beach towels provided and Bluetooth speakers in each room to make your little enclave feel like a real chill-out zone.
While you may find you want to spend a day or two simply lazing by the pool, the Finca’s location is ideal for exploring the less touristy side of Lanzarote. A short walk leads to the village of Arrieta for tapas, groceries or a beach dip, and there are some wonderful adventures to seek out further afield during your stay – these were six of my favourites.
Adventures in Lanzarote
1. Vineyard Wandering in La Geria
Lanzarote’s volcanic vineyards are otherworldly—grey mounds of ash cradle hardy vines in neat circles. Head to La Geria to sip local wine beneath shady fig trees in a local bodega – the island’s vineyards are laid-back and welcoming, perfect for a slow afternoon of tastings in the sunshine.
2. Wild Swims in Punta Mujeres
Join the locals for a dip at the Piscinas Naturales de Punta Mujeres, a string of lava-rock sea pools beside a whitewashed fishing village. Even on a wavy sea day, the protected pools are perfect for cooling off in calmer waters.
3. Island Escape to La Graciosa
Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, La Graciosa is a slice of untouched paradise. This car-free island is all sandy tracks, sleepy villages, and sun-drenched beaches. Rent a bike or wander barefoot through dunes and lava fields to find your own empty shore.
4. Cactus Safari in Jardín de Cactus
Step into artist César Manrique’s surreal desert garden, where 4,500 spiky residents from five continents bask beneath Lanzarote’s sun. The Jardín de Cactus is a dreamy maze of terraces, volcanic rock, and towering succulents. Climb the old windmill for views over the lunar-like landscape.
5. Tapas Trail Through Teguise
Teguise’s cobbled streets are a food lover’s dream. Stop at La Cantina for creative takes on classic tapas—think goats’ cheese croquettes and spicy red mojo sauce. Humbler corner joints serve up mouthwatering plates too – follow the crowds for the best foodie finds.
6. Volcanic Trekking in Timanfaya
Hike across the scarred, otherworldly beauty of Timanfaya National Park, where rust-red and iron black earth ripples underfoot. A guide can take you into the heart of this Martian landscape for incredible views of La Caldera Blanca, an astonishing crater.
Stay at Lanzarote Retreat’s Finca de Arrieta from £75 per night
