My arrival at Villa Anyaval in Lanzarote was far from graceful. After scaling a 7ft gate I assumed was locked, I landed with a thud in the villa grounds, only to realise the gate had been unlatched the entire time. It was 9.30pm, and my wife raised her eyebrows in amusement, while my 18-month-old son Theo mimicked the gesture. Despite this clumsy start, it proved to be the sole low point of an otherwise wonderful family holiday, offering a glimpse of Lanzarote beyond its bustling resorts, relentless nightlife, and ubiquitous full English breakfasts.
Secluded Villa in Lanzarote's Southern Reaches
We booked Villa Anyaval through Solmar Villas, a company with over 150 properties in Lanzarote and 2,500 across Europe. Seeking seclusion and space, we chose this modern, two-storey whitewashed building nestled between rugged mountains and the windswept sea. The villa features four sleek, contemporary bedrooms, with occasional exposed stone walls that echo the island's craggy volcanic landscape.
Luxurious Amenities and Peaceful Setting
Upon arrival, we were greeted with plush bedding and soft towels, while the kitchen was well-stocked with enough utensils for a dinner party. Outside, the crown jewel is an 11m heated pool, accompanied by a sumptuous day-bed and a hot-tub. The property boasts spacious living and dining areas with an open-plan kitchen, creating an ideal environment for relaxation.
For us, the ultimate luxury was the absence of distractions. Beyond a few chirps from phones, the gnawing stresses from home were quickly forgotten, and even my embarrassment over the gate debacle faded. Days melted into a blissful jumble of exertion and relaxation, with Theo in his element, leaping into the water and swimming without the chaos of other children. A mini playground with a slide and swing added to the family-friendly appeal.
Exploring Beyond the Villa
When we ventured out, we strolled to a nearby shop to stock up on wine, cured meats, and cheeses. Villa Anyaval is within easy reach of white-washed villages like Yaiza, which serves as the gateway to Timanfaya National Park, known for its stark but beautiful landscape of lava fields and volcanic cones. A short drive in the other direction leads to Playa Blanca, a pleasant seaside town where ferries to other islands depart for the adventurous.
However, we were content to stay local, enjoying meals at spots like Restaurante Secreto del Mar on the promenade, which serves a delicious pan con tomate. The week passed blissfully and quietly, allowing us to embrace the joy of doing very little while appreciating Lanzarote beyond its high-density hubs.
Booking Details and Other Villa Options
Seven nights at Villa Anyaval start from £2,557, with flight-inclusive packages available from £450 per person, including Gatwick flights for eight sharing. Solmar Villas offers over 150 villas in Lanzarote year-round, all featuring private swimming pools, many with heating for winter months.
Options include Villa Sirena in Playa Blanca for six people from £766, while the Luxe collection's Villa Infinity costs up to £10,464 for 18 sharing, complete with a two-tier swimming pool, games room, gym, mini golf, and cinema. For families with young children, Villa Xian has a separate children's pool area with a toadstool waterfall and playhouse from £2,567 for up to 10 sharing. Golf enthusiasts might prefer Villa Amapola, near the prestigious Costa Teguise Golf Course with sea views, sleeping up to eight from £3,560.
