I don't know about you, but I tend to find the prettiest tourist destinations are often thronging with fellow travellers - which can spoil the ambience somewhat. But, there are places that have somehow managed to retain their tranquil air, with Yaiza in Lanzarote being one of those magical spots.
Before I go on, I'd just like clarify that Yaiza is the name of two areas of Lanzarote - the tiny village of Yaiza, and the municipality it is located in, which also shares its name. While for the most part I'll be talking about the village itself, I think some of the surrounding attractions in the municipality are really not to be missed on day trips here - but I'll always let you know which I'm referring to!
Before I go on, I'd just like clarify that Yaiza is the name of two areas of Lanzarote - the tiny village of Yaiza, and the municipality it is located in, which also shares its name. While for the most part I'll be talking about the village itself, I think some of the surrounding attractions in the municipality are really not to be missed on day trips here - but I'll always let you know which I'm referring to!
All about the village of Yaiza
Repeatedly voted the prettiest village in the whole of Spain, Yaiza really is something special. Wonderfully tranquil, its surroundings look like something taken from a fairytale, what with its beautiful beaches and lunar-like landscape.
The village of Yaiza is small and planted all over with colourful flowers, which I think are key elements of its charm. You don't come to Yaiza to trek from one big tourist attraction to the next; you come to Yaiza to escape all that, and to experience the beauty of Spain at its laidback best.
When you visit, it's worth bearing in mind that Yaiza was nearly rendered nothing more than one of the bare, strange-looking landscapes that Lanzarote is so famous for. You see, back in the 18th century there were a lot of volcanic eruptions and, being situated in a lava path, it was thought Yaiza would fall victim to them. Happily, it somehow did not, and today it stands as one of Spain's loveliest destinations.
Local beaches
Some of the most stunning beaches in Lanzarote can be found in Yaiza, so definitely make the effort to visit one or two of them while you're here. Among the best is Playa Quemada, which has a reputation for its crystal-clear water and fine white sand.
Personally, I really love tracking down secluded coves when I'm holiday, just because I think they usually feel more special than standard beaches. There's a truly exceptional one in Yaiza called Papagayo. Nestled between two cliffs, it's an excellent place for snorkelling.
In the local area
The wider municipality of Yaiza houses some of the most fascinating sites in Lanzarote, largely because it's this area that's home to the incredible Timanfaya National Park, which is itself surrounded by the National Park of the Volcanoes. So, as I am sure you've guessed, it's where you can see some of the island's most unusual volcanic landscapes.
One of the most famous is El Golfo, which is a dramatic coastal crater. In its centre is a small, pretty lake called Laguna Verde. If you come here - and I thoroughly recommend you do! - I think it's also worth taking a short stroll down to the nearby Los Hervidos, where you can see the spectacular site of the sea crashing against towering cliffs.
This is just a snapshot of what a day out in Yaiza - both the village and the municipality - can involve. But, in truth, I think it's one of those places that you have to experience for yourself to really understand. And if you're still on the lookout for places to stay during your holiday, Sovereign can give you some great ideas.
(Photo via ThinkStock / iStockphoto)
Repeatedly voted the prettiest village in the whole of Spain, Yaiza really is something special. Wonderfully tranquil, its surroundings look like something taken from a fairytale, what with its beautiful beaches and lunar-like landscape.
The village of Yaiza is small and planted all over with colourful flowers, which I think are key elements of its charm. You don't come to Yaiza to trek from one big tourist attraction to the next; you come to Yaiza to escape all that, and to experience the beauty of Spain at its laidback best.
When you visit, it's worth bearing in mind that Yaiza was nearly rendered nothing more than one of the bare, strange-looking landscapes that Lanzarote is so famous for. You see, back in the 18th century there were a lot of volcanic eruptions and, being situated in a lava path, it was thought Yaiza would fall victim to them. Happily, it somehow did not, and today it stands as one of Spain's loveliest destinations.
Local beaches
Some of the most stunning beaches in Lanzarote can be found in Yaiza, so definitely make the effort to visit one or two of them while you're here. Among the best is Playa Quemada, which has a reputation for its crystal-clear water and fine white sand.
Personally, I really love tracking down secluded coves when I'm holiday, just because I think they usually feel more special than standard beaches. There's a truly exceptional one in Yaiza called Papagayo. Nestled between two cliffs, it's an excellent place for snorkelling.
In the local area
The wider municipality of Yaiza houses some of the most fascinating sites in Lanzarote, largely because it's this area that's home to the incredible Timanfaya National Park, which is itself surrounded by the National Park of the Volcanoes. So, as I am sure you've guessed, it's where you can see some of the island's most unusual volcanic landscapes.
One of the most famous is El Golfo, which is a dramatic coastal crater. In its centre is a small, pretty lake called Laguna Verde. If you come here - and I thoroughly recommend you do! - I think it's also worth taking a short stroll down to the nearby Los Hervidos, where you can see the spectacular site of the sea crashing against towering cliffs.
This is just a snapshot of what a day out in Yaiza - both the village and the municipality - can involve. But, in truth, I think it's one of those places that you have to experience for yourself to really understand. And if you're still on the lookout for places to stay during your holiday, Sovereign can give you some great ideas.
(Photo via ThinkStock / iStockphoto)
(This post was written by Hari Apostolides)
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