That Lanzagrotty time of year

You know how people can become creatures of habit? Well, we must be. When the chills and fog of winter descend, we feel the urge to head for a couple of weeks in the sun and the well known and loved areas of Lanzarote seem to have a magnetic attraction.

This year, things were a little different, Not the weather, scenery or the lovely coastal walks luckily:

The volcano (Timanfaya) was as spectacular as always and the coach driver who slowly winds you around the narrow track in the lava field was equally skillful:

We still love the dramatic coastline at El Golfo only this time there was no Morgan Aero 8 parked outside the restaurant. Pity, but the pictures from a coastline walk there are still worth sharing we think:

One unfortunate thing was that when we visited Arrecife, the capital, our liner curse was in operation. This time Ventura disgorged hordes of sweatshirt and baseball cap toting folks to fill up the pavements, cafes and generally give tourists a bad name:

Some of the liner's inmates were into taking pictures of their teddy bear in as many locations as possible:

Then they took another three pictures. Patrick, be happy that you are not subjected to such indignities. (Mainly because you are just too heavy to carry around of course). We did manage one picture of the waterfront area that wasn't completely full of liner folks so here it is:

Overwintering in Marina Rubicon? More than a little tempting but we have to visit the northern climes first.

So, we hear you ask, what was different this year? Well, for part of the holiday John and Irene (better known as the owners of Archie the cutest Lakeland terrier on the planet) were also around. Whilst visiting Cesar Manrique's house, the crew and Irene seemed to be in good spirits: 

Spirits? Well, actually Irene seemed more at home with sangria sitting in one of the smart marinas:

For the lady readers who are feeling cheated, we can assure you that John was in a similar mood:

We also discovered a cafe in Marina Rubicon that offered the best apple cake ever and at a great price when combined with a coffee:

It was kind of a reward for walking the 3 and a bit miles from the hotel to the marina.

Perhaps the sun and sangria were getting to the crew a little though. Another kiddies swing moment like in Bangor, only this time significantly warmer and higher: 

Still, the picture sums up the general mood of folks getting some Lanzagrotty winter sun. Of course, we then had to return to a grubby boat and the cleaning fun that involves.