Lanzarote, a little gem of an island to be preserved

Off the African coast, in the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, lies Lanzarote. This island of three hundred volcanoes holds a variety of singular landscapes emanating raw energy and monastic silence. The second biosphere reserve of the Canary Islands, it is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hence the importance of preserving it, whether you come to discover it alone or with company...

For ecologist Quino Miguélez, who actively participates in the analysis of human activity on the island's environment, it is necessary to find sustainable solutions to preserve the biodiversity of such a place. Lanzarote is, according to him, the perfect example for understanding the interconnection between all living beings. Indeed, between its lava fields, its rocks oscillating between red and black, its typical white houses, and its lush palm groves, it represents an unprecedented observation ground where all species coexist in harmony. While the notion of time can quickly be lost as the diverse spaces that make up the island can take your breath away, it is important to carefully follow a few tips to better respect it.

Julie Genicot, hiking guide and manager of Casa Dominique, a guesthouse located in the arid landscape of the Famara natural park, has made it her mission to accompany tourists in a responsible discovery of the island. For example, she advises against leaving the marked trails, even if it can be tempting, as a footprint can take up to two years to be erased by the wind. She also recommends not leaving anything behind or collecting anything during your walk. Finally, this lover and protector of the island reminds us of the importance of limiting our water consumption once on Lanzarote, as the water here comes from the ocean and therefore needs to be desalinated. This process involves a large expenditure of energy and forces the island's inhabitants to be cautious.

For Quino and Julie, it is precisely from constraints that new freedoms and possibilities for creation and embellishment of places emerge. And it is also up to those who visit this breathtaking island to follow the example of the locals to preserve it as best as possible...

 

Photos: Charlène Lambert @charlenelambert for the A Week Abroad Lanzarote guide

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