Your Next Golf Getaway to Lanzarote: Volcanic Landscapes, Ocean Views and Year-Round Sunshine
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Imagine teeing off against a backdrop of dramatic volcanic mountains, with the Atlantic Ocean stretching towards the horizon and sunshine warming the fairways. Welcome to Lanzarote, one of Spain’s most distinctive golf destinations, where extraordinary landscapes meet excellent playing conditions throughout the year.
Part of the Canary Islands, just off the northwest coast of Africa, Lanzarote offers something different from traditional Mediterranean golf resorts. Its combination of volcanic scenery, beautiful beaches, welcoming resorts and mild temperatures makes it an appealing choice for golfers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re planning a winter golf escape or a sunny getaway with friends, here’s why Lanzarote deserves a place on your travel list.
Why Lanzarote Is a Fantastic Golf Destination
Unlike many European golf destinations where the playing season is limited by colder weather, Lanzarote welcomes golfers throughout the year. The island enjoys an average annual temperature of approximately 21°C, with relatively little rainfall and plenty of sunshine. Even in January and February, conditions are generally comfortable for a round of golf.
However, the island’s greatest attraction might be its scenery. Lanzarote’s landscape was shaped by centuries of volcanic activity, creating an extraordinary contrast between black lava fields, reddish mountains, whitewashed villages and green fairways.
Recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993, Lanzarote has carefully preserved much of its natural character. Its golf courses reflect this distinctive environment, offering an experience that feels very different from the lush parkland layouts of mainland Europe.
Costa Teguise Golf: A Volcanic Golf Experience
One of Lanzarote’s standout golfing experiences is Costa Teguise Golf, an 18-hole, par-72 course designed by British architect John Harris and opened in 1978.
Situated at the foot of an ancient volcano, the course features more than 3,000 palm trees, volcanic rocks and native vegetation. Its fairways wind through a spectacular landscape, with the Atlantic Ocean providing a memorable backdrop.
Measuring approximately 6,462 metres from the championship tees, Costa Teguise Golf features numerous doglegs that reward thoughtful course management rather than simply powerful driving.
The course is just a few minutes from the hotels and beaches of Costa Teguise, making it especially convenient for visitors who want to combine golf with a relaxing seaside holiday.
Lanzarote Golf: Ocean Views and an Enjoyable Challenge
Located near Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote Golf offers another unforgettable round in the island’s remarkable volcanic surroundings.
Designed by American golf architect Ron Kirby and opened in 2008, this 18-hole, par-72 course measures approximately 6,133 metres. The layout incorporates the natural contours of the terrain, creating a varied golfing experience suitable for different abilities.
With views stretching across the Atlantic towards Fuerteventura and Lobos Island, the course offers plenty of opportunities to appreciate Lanzarote’s dramatic setting.
Lanzarote Golf also provides a driving range with 20 practice bays, a putting green, a short-game practice area and a golf academy. Its location, approximately 10 minutes from the airport and close to Puerto del Carmen’s main hotels, makes it an excellent option for both short golf breaks and longer holidays.
Another interesting feature is its environmental approach: the course uses treated water for irrigation and incorporates native plants to help preserve the surrounding landscape.
Where to Stay for Your Lanzarote Golf Holiday
Although Lanzarote has only two full-length 18-hole golf courses, it offers an impressive selection of accommodation, ranging from stylish beachfront hotels to luxurious resorts.
Puerto del Carmen is particularly convenient for golfers playing Lanzarote Golf. The lively resort town offers sandy beaches, waterfront restaurants, shopping and plenty of evening entertainment.
Costa Teguise provides another excellent base, especially for those planning to play Costa Teguise Golf. Its relaxed atmosphere, attractive beaches and selection of hotels make it popular with couples and families.
For travellers seeking a more peaceful luxury escape, Playa Blanca in the south of the island offers upscale resorts, picturesque coastal scenery and access to the beautiful Papagayo beaches. However, golfers staying here should allow additional travel time to reach the courses.
Beyond the Fairways: Explore Lanzarote’s Natural Wonders
A golf holiday in Lanzarote wouldn’t be complete without discovering the island’s extraordinary attractions.
One of the highlights is Timanfaya National Park, famous for its otherworldly volcanic landscape. Formed largely by eruptions during the 18th century, the park features vast lava fields, volcanic craters and dramatic rock formations that resemble the surface of another planet.
Another must-visit attraction is Jameos del Agua, where renowned local artist César Manrique transformed a volcanic cave system into a remarkable combination of architecture, nature and art.
Wine lovers should explore La Geria, Lanzarote’s unusual wine-growing region. Here, grapevines grow in individual hollows dug into volcanic ash and protected by semicircular stone walls. The region is particularly famous for its Malvasía Volcánica wines, offering visitors a unique tasting experience.
For relaxation, the golden beaches of Papagayo, the lively waterfront of Puerto del Carmen and the dramatic coastline around Famara provide plenty of opportunities to unwind after a round.
When Is the Best Time to Play Golf in Lanzarote?
One of Lanzarote’s biggest advantages is its year-round golfing climate. While destinations across northern Europe experience cold winters, Lanzarote continues to offer generally pleasant playing conditions.
From November to March, average temperatures range from approximately 17°C to 21°C, making the island particularly attractive for winter golf holidays.
Spring and autumn are also excellent choices, offering comfortable temperatures for playing golf and exploring the island. September and October can be especially appealing, with warmer sea temperatures and, at times, lighter trade winds.
Summer brings hotter conditions, with average temperatures reaching approximately 25°C in August. Golfers visiting during these months may prefer early morning tee times to avoid the strongest afternoon sunshine.
It’s also worth remembering that Lanzarote can be windy. The Atlantic trade winds are an important part of the island’s climate and can add an extra challenge to club selection and ball control.
Planning Your Perfect Lanzarote Golf Getaway
For most visitors, a four- or five-night stay provides enough time to experience both of Lanzarote’s golf courses while enjoying the island’s other attractions.
A well-balanced itinerary could include a round at Costa Teguise Golf, another at Lanzarote Golf, a day exploring Timanfaya National Park and La Geria, and some time relaxing beside the Atlantic.
Lanzarote Airport, also known as César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport, provides a convenient arrival point, with both golf courses located within a relatively short drive. Renting a car is particularly useful for exploring the island’s volcanic landscapes, beaches and traditional villages.
Golfers should book their preferred tee times in advance, particularly during popular winter holiday periods, and consider arranging club rental if travelling without their own equipment.
Why Lanzarote Should Be Your Next Golf Destination
Lanzarote may not have the extensive collection of golf courses found in the Algarve or Costa del Sol, but what it lacks in quantity, it makes up for in character.
Few destinations allow golfers to play beside ancient volcanic landscapes in the morning, explore remarkable geological wonders in the afternoon and finish the day with fresh seafood overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
With its pleasant year-round climate, distinctive golf courses, beautiful resorts and unforgettable natural scenery, Lanzarote offers much more than a traditional golf holiday.
For golfers looking to combine memorable rounds with sunshine, relaxation and adventure, this extraordinary Canary Island deserves serious consideration for their next getaway.
