We rented a car for three days and set off to day trip around the island. Considering that it's quite barren, Lanzarote surprised us with its unique beauty. Tourism hasn't destroyed it with overdevelopment such as the along the Costa del Sol. Why not? Mainly because of the influence of one man, artist/sculptor/architect Cesar Manrique, who was born in Lanzarote.

Not only were many of the major attractions of Lanzarote created by Manrique, but he oversaw the architectural planning of tourist development for the whole island, beginning back in the late '60s. One of his goals was to protect the environment and cultural history of the island. We started out with a visit to one of Manrique's former homes, converted during his lifetime into a museum. Built on top of a "ropy lava" field, he incorporated the black lava with whitewashed tunnels, open seating areas with palm trees and cacti, an enticing small pool, and enclosed rooms with window views of volcanoes. All sprinkled with his art, sculptures and landscaping.

CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS!

Later we visited a centuries-old military fortress, the San Jose Castle, overlooking the harbor of Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote. The castle has been converted into a contemporary art museum and restaurant. Who oversaw the project? Cesar Manrique.

Last stop of the day was at our favorite supermarket chain, Lidl!