Escaping to Lanzarote from Ireland: The Perfect Autumn Break
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As the golden hues of autumn settle over Ireland and the days grow shorter, many of us begin to feel the pull of warmer climates and sun-drenched landscapes. If you’re looking for a quick escape that won’t break the bank, Lanzarote—a small but stunning Canary Island off the coast of Africa—offers the ideal autumn break. Just a 4.5-hour flight from Dublin, it’s one of the easiest ways to swap jumpers for swimsuits without the long-haul hassle.
Why Lanzarote in Autumn?
While Ireland moves into wind, rain, and darker evenings, Lanzarote continues to bask in sunshine, with daytime temperatures averaging a pleasant 24–27°C through September, October, and even into November. The sea remains warm enough to swim, and the tourist crowds from summer have thinned out, making autumn a sweet spot for both relaxation and adventure.
Getting There
Direct flights to Lanzarote’s César Manrique Airport (ACE) are available from Dublin, Cork, Shannon, and Belfast. Ryanair and Aer Lingus both operate frequent services, especially in September and October. If you’re planning a long weekend or a 4-5 day escape, look out for deals on midweek flights to get better value.
Where to Stay
Lanzarote has a broad range of accommodation to suit all budgets—from luxury beachfront resorts in Playa Blanca, to self-catering apartments in Puerto del Carmen, to laid-back boutique hotels in Costa Teguise. If you prefer a quieter, more authentic stay, consider the rural villages inland or along the northern coast, where traditional whitewashed homes dot the volcanic landscape.
What to Do on a Short Break
Even if you're only there for a few days, Lanzarote packs plenty in:
- Relax on the beach: Playa Blanca and Playa de Papagayo offer postcard-worthy sands and turquoise waters, perfect for a slow day of swimming and sunbathing.
- Explore Timanfaya National Park: A visit to this volcanic wonderland is a must. Take the geothermal tour and witness firsthand how fire still simmers beneath the earth.
- Sample local wine: Lanzarote’s wine region, La Geria, produces unique Malvasía wines from vines grown in black volcanic soil. You can tour vineyards and taste wines while enjoying incredible views.
- Walk or cycle: The island’s lunar landscape is crisscrossed with trails. Rent a bike or lace up your walking shoes for a quiet sunrise walk along the coast or a cycle through inland valleys.
- César Manrique's legacy: The artist and architect is synonymous with Lanzarote. His designs—such as the Jameos del Agua and Mirador del Río—blend art and nature in striking harmony.
Food & Drink
Canarian cuisine is simple but full of flavour. Think grilled fish, papas arrugadas (salty wrinkled potatoes with spicy mojo sauce), and goat cheese. Most seaside towns have restaurants right on the water, perfect for slow dinners as the sun sets over the Atlantic.
A Stress-Free Reset
Lanzarote’s combination of warm weather, short travel time, and stunning natural beauty makes it an ideal short break in autumn for Irish travellers. Whether you’re craving sunshine, good food, or a bit of outdoor adventure, the island offers an easy and affordable way to recharge before winter settles in back home.
Final Tips
- Book flights and accommodation early for better deals, especially around school midterms.
- Pack light but bring layers—mornings and evenings can be cooler, especially in November.
- Hire a car if you want to explore beyond the resort towns; driving is straightforward, and the island is easy to navigate.
So, if you’re feeling the chill creeping in this autumn, remember: Lanzarote is just a few hours away. And it’s still summer there.
