Lanzarote, Canary Islands 🌋
"A lunar landscape roadtrip through volcanic vineyards and palm-fringed shores."
Lanzarote offers a dramatic mix of Timanfaya National Park mountains and unique black-sand beaches. This is the ultimate short-haul roadtrip destination from Dublin with affordable flights and high-contrast scenery.
A perfect blend of otherworldly volcanic hiking, sun-drenched golden beaches, and the unique architectural legacy of César Manrique, all explored via a scenic island road trip.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Fire Mountains and Volcanic Shores
Morning — Pick up your rental car and head to the village of Yaiza for a traditional breakfast before exploring the green lagoon at El Golfo.
Afternoon — Drive into Timanfaya National Park to witness the 'Martian' volcanic landscapes and watch geothermal demonstrations.
Evening — Dinner in the harbor of Puerto del Carmen; try local 'papas arrugadas' with mojo sauce.
💡 Pre-book your El Diablo restaurant reservation to eat food cooked over volcanic heat.
Day 2 · Vineyards and Volcanic Craters
Morning — Visit La Geria wine region for a walk through the unique semi-circular stone vineyards (Zocos). Enjoy a tasting of Malvasía Volcánica.
Afternoon — Hike the trail around Volcán El Cuervo to walk inside a real volcanic crater. It’s an easy, flat, and surreal walk.
Evening — Drive to the historic inland town of Teguise for wine and tapas at a traditional courtyard gastrobar.
💡 Visit Bodegas El Grifo, the oldest winery in the Canary Islands.
Day 3 · Golden Beaches and Southern Ridges
Morning — Head to the southern tip of the island to hike the Los Ajaches ridge for panoramic views of Fuerteventura.
Afternoon — Relax at Playas de Papagayo, a series of hidden coves with golden sand and calm turquoise water.
Evening — A sunset walk along the Marina Rubicón in Playa Blanca for an upscale seafood dinner.
💡 The road to Papagayo is unpaved; drive slowly to avoid car rental insurance issues.
Day 4 · Manrique’s Art and Northern Cliffs
Morning — Drive north to Mirador del Río for a cliffside view of La Graciosa island, then wander the white-washed streets of Haría.
Afternoon — Explore the Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes—spectacular lava tube caves transformed by artist César Manrique.
Evening — A farewell dinner in the capital city, Arrecife, overlooking the Charco de San Ginés lagoon.
💡 Check the ferry schedule if you want a quick 20-minute jump over to La Graciosa island.