Lanzarote Love
I decided for my week of R&R to choose Playa Blanca, more specifically we stayed at the 4*+ Sandos Papagayo. Just a short transfer from Arrecife Airport, this all-inclusive family hotel has wonderful and modern sea or pool facing rooms and is just 2km from Marina Rubicon and 3km from Playa Blanca centre. The hotel offers a daily complimentary bus into the resort, 4 times a day which we did make use of.
There's plenty to do at this hotel, my son enjoyed the daily water polo and pool games – he also had a free snorkelling lesson in the pool too! For younger children there is a kids club (4-12 years), kids pool and playground. Evening entertainment was varied, professional and held in the outdoor theatre. It is a large hotel with almost 500 rooms, but has 4 pools (1 adult only), 7 bars and 5 restaurants including a 24 hour pool snack grill, main buffet restaurant, Mexican and an Italian which are both pre-bookable and are included in your all inclusive package. Free wi-fi, lovely, clean grounds and a super chill out terrace with amazing views!
You can also upgrade to the Royal Elite Club – which I would highly recommend. This gives you a nightly turn down service with goodnight chocolate, mini-bar with cava, bottled water and soft drinks. Pool towels in the room and toiletries basket. Breakfast and dinner in a private area. Also included is access to the exclusive Royal Elite Lounge (adult only and family sections) equipped with comfortable sofas, free internet corner, daily press, tea, coffee, refreshments, snacks and drinks including a variety of premium branded drinks. Private chill out terrace with stunning views over the ocean.
The location was ideal for us – one day we walked along the stunning coastal path for 20 minutes to the Marina Rubicon. The market day here is every Wednesday and Saturday from 9am until 2pm. We found some unique little stalls selling local jewellery, crafts and homemade goods set to a beautiful harbour backdrop. Before walking home, we stopped at one of the local harbour front bars for a cold cerveza and some tapas in the sunshine!
Another day, we took the hotel shuttle bus to Playa Blanca itself and had a wander around the front, with its designer stores and lovely bars and cafes along the promenade.
Overall, for a relaxing week in the sun this hotel is a good solid option. The food is fresh and plentiful, staff are happy and helpful and it was just what the doctor ordered.
Please get in touch if you are in need of a quick sunshine break too!