The slow symphony of autumn in Lanzarote

If you are one of those lucky people who can enter into autumn without any haste or stress, Lanzarote is waiting for you with open arms. In October the wind and the summer hustle and bustle die down, and a new secret island emerges. Here are some suggestions to make the most of it.

Centres for Art, Culture and Tourism: emotion in its purest form

Lanzarote’s Centres for Art, Culture and Tourism (CACTS) are a symbol of the island’s environmental awareness. Autumn is an almost magical time in these spaces, which were conceived by César Manrique for the enjoyment of all humankind. If you like art, you will love discovering the MIAC Castillo de San José gallery.

The Casa-Museo del Campesino meanwhile is perfect for fans of ethnography and local gastronomy. For lovers of botany or geology, a visit to the Jardín de Cactus and the Cueva de los Verdes is an absolute must. And, of course, the two crowning jewels also await you: Montañas del Fuego and Jameos del Agua. No matter how many times you enjoy a coffee surrounded by their unique beauty, the experience is still breathtaking.

Markets. Think ahead to Christmas

Get a head start on your Christmas shopping and surprise your loved ones this year with unique, local and sustainable gifts. In the artisans’ square of the Casa-Museo del Campesino you will find diverse examples of local craftsmanship. Spoiler alert: anyone who tastes products originating from this volcanic land will fall in love with them for life. Gift choices include wines, fig jams, cactus liqueurs, mantecados, Janubio salt… Lanzarote farmers have sustainability written into their DNA and it shows in their products.

You can find them every Sunday in the street market in the historic centre of Teguise or in the more secluded market of Mancha Blanca, as well as on Saturdays in the craft market in the main square of Haría and in Arrecife, in the narrow streets surrounding the Church of San Ginés. Each market represents a real cultural immersion in the village where it is held. Take the opportunity to mingle in the lively atmosphere around the stalls, and don’t be surprised if you end up in the middle of a Canarian parranda.

Treat yourself to a special day at the beach

The Atlantic waters rarely give the island’s coasts a break, but October is the calmest month on the island’s beaches. Remember to protect yourself from the sun, and then surrender to the pleasure of walking barefoot on the sand of Famara, Papagayo or Puerto del Carmen.

Discover the natural swimming pools of Punta Mujeres, a charming village in the north of the island; cross El Río and discover the beaches in the natural park of La Graciosa; or simply relax in small urban coves such as Playa Honda, Playa Blanca and El Reducto, with promenades lined with small café terraces. The choice is as varied and vast as the ocean that surrounds us. Believe us when we say your beach experience will be truly rejuvenating.

Hiking at your own pace

Take our advice: walk along one of the trails that wind through the extraordinary nature found on the island. Your body and mind will thank you for it. The temperature is perfect at this time of year, there are trails of all levels of difficulty, and the reward is well worth the effort.

It may take you a while to recover from the sight of the breathtaking landscapes revealed by the trails that are scattered all across the island. Just remember to keep in mind the fragility of the terrain you are hiking in and always respect all signs and directions. Charge your mobile phone, share your location, put on some good footwear, and enjoy.

Hit the pedals without the rush

You have no excuse: you’re still fit enough to get on your bike and you’re in the right place to take up this healthy exercise. The island is home to many winding lanes and paths, but if you are not exactly Induráin, the best option is the road that links Costa Teguise and Puerto Calero, running parallel to the coastline.

You can get on the road from any point and cycle at your own pace, enjoying the sea views while passing through the coastal towns on this part of the island. Take a break in one of the café terraces along the route, and you are sure to want to incorporate this daily routine into your holiday. Remember to take sunscreen and a bottle of water with you and get ready to mingle with the morning and evening strollers along this bustling promenade.

Charming corners

By the end of the day, you will be looking for a quiet evening to discuss the various excitements of the day. In Lanzarote, we love to get together around a table in one of the charming corners that reflect the island’s beauty. In the Charco de San Ginés you will feel like a true islander, because the locals have made this picturesque inlet full of small boats a favourite gathering point.

But in fact, when the weather is this fine, any corner of the island is a good place for a chat. The promenades of Playa Honda, Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca are perfect for ending the day with dinner or a light bite. Or if you prefer the inland villages, try some local Canarian cuisine in the island’s teleclubs. There is nothing more comforting than fish croquettes. It is unlikely there will be any left on your plate, but if there is, ask for them to be packed up to go.

You’ll be grateful for this advice when you’re on the flight back to reality.