a guest blog by Nick Ball

CÉSAR´S EMPIRE

For centuries philosophers and geographers have debated whether the Canary Islands are the remnants of the lost continent of Atlantis. According to Plato, civilization here was wiped out. The inhabitants had “fallen prey to the worst vices”, he said.

Today these seven islands off the coast of North West Africa still have a slightly uncivilized image. They are often regarded as just a cheap and chirpy holiday destination.

Four-hour flights, year-round minimum temperatures of 20C and tax-free prices attract huge flocks of migratory northern Europeans every year. Their nesting grounds are well established. Especially on Gran Canaria and Tenerife, the two largest and most populous islands. Here the full-English experience has long since eroded any remnants of authenticity. Much of the countryside wears more concrete than a Mafia victim.

But if that is enough to deter you from visiting the Canaries, think again. For these islands are not all birds of a feather.

Unlike its Canarian cousins the easternmost island of Lanzarote remains largely untouched and boasts a primeval natural beauty. The volcanic interior and lush palm-packed valleys in the north of the island are breathtaking. Rural tourism is growing and small chic hotels are taking root in the countryside. 

But possibly the biggest surprise of all is this little island is earning a growing reputation for it’s cultural attractions.  After all, this is the place Monty Python’s Michael Palin once dubbed “Lanzagrotty”.