Lanzarote´s capital city of Arrecife is often left unexplored by the bulk of visitors to the island.  But this bustling and cosmopolitan conurbation has plenty to offer tourists.  Including two historic castles, a great city centre beach, an inland lagoon and the best shopping on the island.

Despite the fact that everyone arriving on flights to Lanzarote has to pass through Arrecife airport very few ever end up discovering the capital city.  Which is in fact located just 3km away.  As they are instantly whisked away to purpose built holiday destinations across the island instead.

But Arrecife is worthy of much greater exploration – boasting a range of attractions that should feature on any visitors’ itinerary.

Arrecife first assumed the mantle of island capital back in 1852 – when the title was passed from the historic inland town of Teguise.  As trade and the importance of a coastal port become of paramount importance to the islands economic development.

Today the capital is home to around half of the island s total population of 127,000 people.  And revolves around the central hub of Calle Leon Y Castillo – which is the commercial and retail heart of the island.

Arrecife has a surprisingly rich history – as the town (as it was then) was attacked on repeated occasions by the likes of Raleigh and Drake.  Resulting in the creation of two imposing fortresses which were designed to protect Arrecife from further incursions.

The Castillo de San Jose is located around 2km from the city centre – past the fishing harbour and ferry port at Porto Naos.  And was constructed during the 18th century. Becoming known locally as the Fortress of Hunger as it was effectively a latter day public works scheme designed to alleviate poverty and hunger on the island.

Today it is – somewhat ironically- home to one of the best restaurants in Lanzarote.  Which is located in the basement of the castle, overlooking the ferry port.  Whilst the rest of the building has been converted into Lanzarote´s very own Museum of International and Contemporary Art.

The other fortification – the Castillo San Gabriel dates back to the 1590´s and is located right in the heart of the city.  Just at the end of Calle Leon Y Castillo.  And now houses a small display of pre-Spanish Guanche artefacts.

Arecife´s other unique edifice of note is the Gran Hotel.  Widely regarded as one of the very best Lanzarote hotels and the only high rise building on the island.  The Arrecife Gran Hotel first opened it´s doors for business in 2004 and provides guests with breathtaking views across the island.