The idyllic Lanzarote island, with its stunning beaches surrounded by volcanic rocks, cacti, and palm trees, has no shortage of accommodations. Whether in central Arrecife, north or south of the island, you will find top-rated hotels in all parts of Lanzarote. During part of my last trip to this destination, I stayed in the 4-star Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort in Costa Teguise on the island’s Eastern Coast.
The Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort aims to create “a balance between wellness, sport, fine cuisine, and leisure.” Inside the resort, you’ll find the services you’d expect from a 4-star hotel, including swimming pools, buffet restaurants, and bars.
But what sets the resort apart, and what I found surprising, is its promotion of a healthy lifestyle, even on holidays. There is a 10-lane Olympic pool, a professional gym, and a biking center within the Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort. Plus, you can book yoga classes, bicycle tours, and other outdoor activities only enhanced by its spectacular surroundings.
However, besides walking through the nearby promenade, I must admit that I mostly ate and drank by the pool during my stay. In this post, I’ll share my experience at this hotel, including a review of its food, facilities, and services. SPOILER ALERT: I Loved it!
My Experience at the Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort: A Hotel Review
A Hotel Within a Hotel
During my stay, I was fortunate enough to book a Royal Level suite in a limited-access building. This upgraded room gave me direct access to a private infinity swimming pool with a separate bar and restaurant. I also received a package of skincare products made with aloe vera, one of Lanzarote’s star ingredients.
The room was huge, especially the bed, and had tons of natural light from the balcony. It included complimentary tea and coffee capsules and toiletries. Likewise, there was a mini fridge with beers and soft drinks for sale. So, I felt as comfortable and welcomed as I hoped.
Sadly, it was so windy during my visit that I didn’t swim much, but the poolside bar was excellent. The Royal Level bracelet allowed me to have as many drinks as I wanted, so naturally, I’ve tried a few things, including, but not limited to, piña colada, Tinto de Verano, and beers.
That said, not everything can be perfect. Though the resort’s website promises Royal Level rooms with “privileged views,” mine was underwhelming. Instead of the sea views you would expect from a beachfront hotel, I could see a factory from the balcony for the most part. However, considering how little time I’ve spent inside, I didn’t mind it much.
An Active Experience
As I mentioned, I didn’t do any sports at the resort, yet I spent a lot of time outdoors. Since it was my first trip to Lanzarote, I wanted to be out as much as possible.
When I wasn’t sampling the bar’s cocktails and tapas, I also joined the fun at the hotel’s shows and games. For example, I saw a slightly hectic performance where four dancers took us around the world through different dance styles. That same night, I also tried a lively bingo game that was a lot of fun, even if I didn’t win. There are also pool tables, but I was neither quick nor early enough to find one available.
But, perhaps the most ‘active’ thing I did while staying at the Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort was hiking. I walked from the hotel to the center of Costa Teguise, one of the best towns of Lanzarote, through the promenade. This 43-minute walk is mild and perfectly suitable for anyone, even the less athletic travelers. And, trust me, the surrounding landscapes are worth it. Plus, if you’re as lucky as me, you may enjoy live Bossanova music during your hike!
In the center of Costa Teguise, you can buy cute souvenirs, eat at a typical Canary or Spanish restaurant, and go to the beach. Playa de las Cucharas, in particular, is gorgeous, and you can do windsurfing there. Costa Teguise is also one of the best areas to stay in Lanzarote.
Finally, you can book a tour of the main attractions of Lanzarote from the hotel. I particularly enjoyed a tour of the Timanfaya National Park with a local guide and an optional camel ride.
What I Ate at the Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort
If there’s something I remember vividly about a trip, it is what I ate, for better and for worse. Luckily, the Barceló Lanzarote Active Resort didn’t disappoint in the food department.
I mostly ate at the Asana Buffet restaurant, which served breakfast and dinner during my stay. This Royal Level-only restaurant has a wide selection of local and international dishes to start or end your day on a perfect note. I loved having fresh donuts or churros con chocolate for breakfast!
Likewise, I also spent a lot of time at the Royal Level Goa Pool Bar. I sipped on Tinto de Verano, beers, and Piña Colada while having finger food and snacks there. The hummus and Pita bread were my go-to.
Considering the hotel’s “active” brand, all the restaurants offer healthy options, including chef recommendations. So, you’ll find the perfect meal at the hotel regardless of your dietary restrictions or preferences. However, if you’d prefer a quiet and intimate environment, you may want to invest in a Royal Level room. The restaurants and bars for all clients were a little noisy and crowded.