Even though Lanzarote continues to be thronged with tourists every year, it’s an unusually natural island where a sense of camaraderie exists between humans and nature. A UNESCO declared Biosphere Reserve, the island’s Timanfaya National Park has a moon-like topography. A drive through its volcanic landscape is a mesmerizing experience of planetary proportions. At the core of Lanzarote’s omnipresent escapist ambiance are the efforts of César Manrique. The local-born artist fought to keep Lanzarote pure, denouncing commercialization while leaving the island with his unique brand of art as seen at the Cactus Garden, al Campesino, and at César Manrique Foundation. Taking a ferry to Lanzarote is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare ferry companies and book ferry tickets.

Today, ferry tickets to Lanzarote are the perfect excuse to bask in the prettiness of an island with few high-rise buildings and a tenacious sense of eco-friendliness. The island vibe is pleasantly mellow in the capital Arrecife, especially once cruise ships leave in the evenings. Residents tourists typically spend their time walking around the lagoon watching colorful fishing boats. For a hint of excitement, there is Castillo de San Gabriel, a fort on the Islet of the English, connected with the mainland via a bridge. The highpoint, quite literally, is a drink on the rooftop café of Gran Hotel and Spa. As the only 17-story building, the views from here are unquestionably stunning.

Playa Blanca in the south is more upbeat. Its bi-weekly Marina Rubicon street market is a great place to socialize with locals. Time spent at Playa Blanca and Playa Dorada, the two city beaches, is always fun. However, a more extraordinary excursion is a dive to Lanzarote’s Museo Atlántico, considered to be Europe’s first underwater museum, featuring 12 exclusive installations.

For ferry tickets to Lanzarote from La Graciosa, check the latest timings and schedules on Ferryscanner. Boats arrive at the northern port of Órzola, a quieter, windier part of the island, devoid of many exciting amenities. There is Mirador del Rio, though. This scenic viewpoint at the height of 475 meters is one of César Manrique’s must-visit magnificent creations.