El Hotelito Del Golfo

El Golfo is a small fishing village on the west coast of Lanzarote, at the edge of the Timanfaya volcanic landscape and beside one of the island's most photographed sights, the green lagoon of Charco de los Clicos. The coast here is dark and dramatic, with black sand, jagged lava and a sea that crashes against the rocks, and the village is known for its fish restaurants lined up along the shore. El Hotelito Del Golfo is a small stay in this quiet corner, which suits travellers who prefer a simple, local base to a big resort, and who want to be close to the volcanic scenery and the sunset.

The main attraction of El Golfo is the setting. A short walk from the village takes you to the Charco de los Clicos, the emerald lagoon enclosed by a crescent of volcanic cone, and a viewing platform above it. Walking is limited near the lagoon, so enjoy the colours from the path. The black sand beach by the lagoon is dramatic but is not for swimming, since the Atlantic currents can be strong, so for a swim you will want to go to a calmer beach on the south coast or to a pool.

Los Hervideros, the sea caves where waves surge through the lava, is a short drive north, and the Timanfaya National Park entrance is also close, as is the village of Yaiza, with its white houses and wine bars.

Evenings in El Golfo centre on the sea. The restaurants along the front serve fresh fish such as vieja, sama and grilled sea bass, with papas arrugadas and mojo sauces, and tables near the shore are best at sunset. The village is quiet after dinner, so bring a book and expect an early night.

A hire car is very useful for exploring: the vineyards of La Geria, the salt pans of Janubio, the beaches of Playa Blanca and the island capital are each within a drive of thirty to forty-five minutes. Local buses exist but are infrequent.

The weather is mild in all seasons, though the west coast catches the wind and the evenings can be cool in winter. Summer is hot and dry, and the best months for walking and sightseeing are spring and autumn. Because this is a small property, room types, facilities, breakfast and any pool vary, so check the details when you book, and ask about parking, since the village streets are narrow. Check also whether restaurants in the village are open on the nights you plan to eat out.

A relaxed stay might include a morning at the lagoon, a drive along the coast to Los Hervideros, a Timanfaya excursion, a wine tasting in La Geria, and a final evening at a seafront table. Bring a light jacket, sturdy shoes for lava paths and a camera for sunset.