Lanzarote’s Costa Teguise is the perfect holiday destination; shimmering waters lapping golden sands, wall-to-wall sunshine in the summer, and indeed at other times of the year, plus great hotels and a wonderful relaxed vibe. For such a small island that spans only 37 by 12 miles, Lanzarote is bursting with attractions and there is much more to do here than just laze on the beach (although that has to be on the agenda too!)
I am sure that you will welcome the fact that the transfer from Lanzarote Airport to Costa Teguise takes only 15 minutes, but make sure you sit up and pay attention as you will be passing lots of interesting spots that are definitely worth returning to during your stay. Here is the lowdown on three highlights you will pass by on your journey from Lanzarote Airport to Costa Teguise.
1. Playa Honda
It is easy to miss this little town that you fly over as you come into land at the airport, mainly because on first glance it may not be much to look at. More of a local town than a resort, Playa Honda remains off the tourist trail. Look a little closer, however, and this place opens up to reveal a pretty 5km beach, a recently renovated boutique hotel, and the popular shopping centre, Deiland.
The wonderful seafront promenade stretches to the capital, Arrecife, and is ideal for an evening stroll, especially when a light breeze blows and the heat subsides. With so many wonderful tapas bars along the seafront, many with ‘al fresco’ tables right by the lapping waves, you can take your pick.
If you like a recommendation when it comes to eating, however, here is my choice of places to dine in this town.
Restaurant Mesana
It is hard to get past the fabulous tapas menu here but if you feel like something more substantial, the main menu has lots of excellent options. I just love whiling away the hours at one of the outdoor tables with a glass of something cold and a few nibbles to keep me company.
Aguaviva
For a special occasion, try this high-end restaurant. Recognised as one of the best on the island, this is the spot to head to if you love you steak!
Other beachfront eateries include La Marea de Barlovento and Los Robles, both authentic tapas bars serving up local specialities of excellent quality.
It is worth mentioning that Playa Honda is also great for supermarkets, retail outlets and other amenities, should you need.
Recommended Visit Time: It really depends what you would like to do at Playa Honda, but I recommend putting a day aside to visit. Relax on the beach, do a spot of shopping and hang out into the evening to enjoy that promenade at its most inviting.
2. Arrecife
The island’s capital, Arrecife, is the first place you will see when you travel from Lanzarote Airport to Costa Teguise. It is a surprising place full of history and rich in culture, yet a cosmopolitan vibe envelops the city and complements it beautifully. It is hard to believe that this city with its beautiful harbour was once a small fishing village.
Named after the volcanic rock formations that jut out from the sea protecting the harbour (the name is derived from the Spanish for reef), Arrecife is today a vibrant capital that throngs with activity. Shopping is the main attraction here, with designer boutiques and quality retail shops lining the streets, but there are plenty more attractions too.
Must-Visit Museums
I just love the art scene in the city and can highly recommend a visit to the International Museum of Contemporary Art. Elegant and sophisticated, this museum now houses one of the most significant collections of art in the Canary Islands. Miró, Millares and Rivera among others are on show. The museum of Arrecife’s history, located in the sixteenth-century Castillo de San Gabriel, is another must see. Although the information is in Spanish, the exhibits are beautifully set out and the view from the top of the castle is worth the trip alone.
Star City
The only skyscraper on the island, built before the strict no high-rise rule came into practice, this rather interesting-looking building is a bit like marmite; love it or hate it! Get yourself up to the 17th floor though and the views are stunning. You can also indulge in a cocktail or two while you are there.
City Markets
Local markets are always on my radar when I travel. They are the best places to get down and dusty with the locals. La Recova Market, between Avenida León y Castillo and Charco de San Ginés, is a charming handicraft market definitely worth a browse. Coffee and pastry and a little people watching are the perfect complement to a morning pottering around this hidden spot.
3. Tahiche
Along the road from Lanzarote Airport to Costa Teguise is Tahiche, the hometown of the famous César Manrique, the artist and architect who was born on the island. His home here in the centre of the island has become a tourist favourite: Manrique was passionate about preserving his beloved Lanzarote and succeeded in limiting development and creating unique eco-friendly tourist attractions on the island. Some consider Tahiche to be the place where modern tourism here was born.
César Manrique’s Home
After spending time in New York, Manrique built his famous house on the island that has been designed to incorporate the lava fields that dominate the scenery on Lanzarote. The incredible design, built into five volcanic lava chambers found by chance, became his home and studio. His innovative eco-driven build helped to develop other such attractions on the island. He became a global name and a modern saint on Lanzarote, an island that would have sunk under the weight of mass tourism but instead now benefits from a unique eco-tourism that is sustainable and productive.
While Manrique’s house is a definite must, there are other spots to enjoy in this town too.
Los Aljibes
A fabulous restaurant designed by Manrique, Los Aljibes has been created with many signature Manrique features and has that breathtaking effect when you enter. This is a great place to stop for a bite on your way back to Costa Teguise.
Tahiche Volcano Park
Only a short walk from Los Aljibes is a small volcanic park. Taking a break here is highly recommended, especially when you consider the impact that volcanoes have had on this island. Marvel at the views up to Mount Tahiche and down towards Costa Teguise. Why not take a walk over the lava fields at Zonzamas too?
Recommended Visit Time: A day can easily be filled exploring Tahiche and the volcanic highlights that surround it, but if you are short for time, a half-day will have you getting a good feel for what is here.
From Lanzarote Airport to Costa Teguise
On arrival you are bound to be raring to get from Lanzarote Airport to Costa Teguise as soon as you can, but take note of some of the attractions you pass and you will have plenty of ideas for day trips or even half-day trips once you are settled into resort.
About Shuttle Direct
Using Europe and North Africa’s leading transfer company, you can rest assured that your onward travel is taken care of. Getting from Lanzarote Airport to Costa Teguise could not be simpler when you book with Shuttle Direct, the company that provides a professional, comfortable and reliable service.
NB.This route guide has been compiled as an aid to visiting the region. Your airport transfer service from Lanzarote Airport to Costa Teguise does not include stops to these destinations.
