A small fleck in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Morocco, more than 300 volcanic cones jut from Lanzarote’s surface and much of the lunar landscape we see today was formed by eruptions in around 1730. Archaeologists speculate that the Phoenicians ventured here before the Romans chronicled the first reference to the island in 77 AD. But it was the Spanish who eventually moved in for good, and Lanzarote maintains a distinctly Iberian feel.

The giant colourful mosaics and wind sculptures scattered across the island are the handiwork of local artist and architect, the late César Manrique. He successfully pioneered to protect the territory from over-development, and consequently no high-rises are permitted.

Roughly one million tourists per year head for the busy resort of Puerto del Carmen, and it bristles with lively bars and a range of hotels and restaurants to suit all tastes. The town’s 7km-long Avenida de las Playas spools out along its coastline, while a short stroll from its centre, the Old Town Harbour is where to sample robust local fare in the form of fresh seafood and papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes).

The shallow beaches and warm azure waters of Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise are firm favourites among families, but they can get busy. To really escape the crowds, hire a car and journey to Lanzarote’s more secluded spots. The dramatic basalt coastline of Playa Quemada (Burnt Beach) and Caletón Blanco, a chain of warm rock pools fringed by powdery white sands further up the coast, are quieter options. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers can surf Famara’s epic waves.

Take a dip in Lanzarote’s crystal clear waters at any time of year. Averaging just 18 rainy days per annum, the sub-tropical island basks in a dry, year-round heat— guaranteeing scorching hot summers and mild winters. Hiking more your thing? Spring and autumn are the seasons to make the most of the copper-hued undulations of Parque Nacional de Timanfaya. Here, boiling magma chambers bubble 4km below the surface. Wear a good sun hat because shade and vegetation are sparse.

The steamy Jameos del Agua lava caves and the Cueva de los Verdes, an 8km-long chasm resulting from an immense explosion 5,000 years ago, can be toured for a glimpse into the island’s volatile geography.

A trove of beautiful beaches, charming towns and otherworldly geological treasures, hire a car with Avis in Lanzarote to explore all that this Canary Island has to offer.