Lanzarote is like no other place in the world. Craters and contorted lava flows from massive volcanic eruptions 270 years ago cover three fourths of the island's 324-square-mile surface. The area is a National Park and is a must-see for every visitor to Lanzarote.
Depart the pier on a route that takes you to the southern part of the island passing Arrecife -- the capital -- and Puerto del Carmen. The latter is a popular resort with beautiful beaches. Then, leave the highrises behind to contemplate one of nature's fascinating works -- Montana de Fuego, or Fire Mountain, in Timanfaya National Park. Ride a camel up the slopes of a volcano cone to see the tortured, yet beautiful, lunar-like landscape spread out below.
Continue on to Islote de Hilario for a fascinating demonstration of how volcanic cinders just below the surface are hot enough to kindle wood and produce steam -- proof of the violent forces that linger beneath the earth's crust.
Since rain is rare on Lanzarote, farmers have devised ingenious cultivation methods to grow vegetables in fields of black lava pellets watered only by sea mists. Grapes thrive in cinder pits called zocos, and porous lava granules allow dew to filter down to the roots. The result is a fresh, golden wine called Malvasia. Enjoy a wine tasting with cheese at one of the wineries located in La Geria -- Lanzarote's wine country.
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