🌋 Lanzarote: an island made for training and competing
There is something that sets Lanzarote apart from other sports destinations: here you can train all year round, to compete in organized events at a professional level, and to do so in an environment that is as demanding as it is inspiring. The combination of sun, wind, slopes, volcanic landscapes and services designed for athletes make it a perfect base for planning an entire season.
Whether you're a triathlete, cyclist, runner or just someone who wants to improve your fitness, this guide will help you get organized.
📆 When to compete in Lanzarote?
Unlike other places, Lanzarote has tests from January to December, but there are key times depending on your discipline:
- Triathlon: From April to October. The best known tests are the Volcano, the IRONMAN and the Ocean Lava.
- Popular races and trails: Mostly in spring and summer. The Wine Run (June) and Famara Total (August) are essential.
- Cycling: January (4 Stage MTB), May (Ultrabike) and October (Cycling Tour) mark the peaks of activity.
- Swimming: Swimming and aquathlons are more punctual, but the sea is suitable practically all year round, except for days of strong wind.
What is recommended is choose one or two key events, and plan block training for 8-12 weeks in advance.
🗺️ Where to train in Lanzarote
1. Open sea swimming
- Playa Grande (Puerto del Carmen): ideal for training in a straight line and with reference buoys.
- Flamingo Beach (Playa Blanca): quieter, good for gentle sessions.
- Club La Santa Lake: if you have access, it's perfect for security and environment.
2. Public swimming pools
- Cidade Deportiva de Arrecife
- Club La Santa (private facilities with several Olympic swimming pools)
3. Road cycling
- LZ-30 (La Geria): iconic stretch and low traffic.
- Costa Teguise — Arrieta — Haría: ideal for simulating short ports.
- IRONMAN route: if you train for long distance, it's a classic.
4. Trail and running
- Caleta de Famara — El Risco — Haría
- White Mountain, Tinajo or La Geria trails
- Boardwalks in Puerto del Carmen or Arrecife for more gentle workouts
5. Gyms and strength work
- Vitalclass Lanzarote
- CrossFit Lanzarote
- Club La Santa Fitness Area
🥵 How to adapt to climate and geography
Lanzarote requires. Don't underestimate their environment because they are islanders. Keep in mind the following:
- Constant wind: especially between January and August. Train with a low-profile bike if you're not used to it.
- Temperature: between 17 ºC (winter) and 29 ºC (summer). Always hydrate, even during short workouts.
- Volcanic terrain: Trail footwear must have good traction. Loose dirt and volcanic rock routes are common.
- Solar radiation: Use sunscreen even on cloudy days. The incidence is high.
📦 What to bring (and what to rent if you're coming from abroad)
Essential for training in Lanzarote:
- Trail and asphalt shoes
- Sports sunglasses + cap
- Quick-drying breathable clothing
- Hydration bottle or belt
- Triathlon suit if you compete
- Helmet + bike (or rent it in advance)
Rent a bike?
Companies such as Cabrera Medina, Club La Santa Bike Centre or Papagayo Bike offer high-end models. Book early, especially during weeks of large events.
📈 How to structure your season
Classic three-block model:
- Base (winter — January to March)
- Low volume, technique, strength and smooth sessions.
- Ideal for a long stay on the island or first contact.
- Specific preparation (April — August)
- Focused on improving performance. Take part in a local event such as Volcano or Wine Run.
- Competition block (September — November)
- Here is the Ocean Lava or the Cycling Tour. Aim for a single key test.
- Lower the volume, increase the intensity.
- Active break (December)
- Walking, gentle swimming, quiet cycling. Recover body and mind.
🏁 Conclusion
Planning your season in Lanzarote is not only feasible, it's smart. You can train and compete non-stop, in motivating landscapes and with quality tests. You just need a clear structure, adapt to the island and respect its natural conditions.
Make sport part of your trip and your trip part of the sport.
