Seeking a break from the grey skies and cold of the UK? The island of Lanzarote is just a four hour flight away – but a universe apart in terms of weather at this time of the year. As during February and March holidaymakers can expect to enjoy temperatures well into the mid 20s. Plenty warm enough for long days at the beach or by the pool.

Lanzarote is one of seven Canary Islands – the best known of which is probably Tenerife. But unlike some of the larger islands Lanzarote remains largely unspoiled and has managed to retain much of its character intact. With no high rise buildings and little in the way of the sort of sprawl that can be found elsewhere in Spain. Despite the fact that 1.4 million visitors booked holidays in Lanzarote last year.

Getting to the island is much cheaper than it used to be – thanks to the fact that the major budget airlines have started to compete in earnest on this route now. With Ryanair and easyJet vying for business and offering seats from around €100 return. All of which touch down at the sole international airport of Arrecife.

Holiday villas in Lanzarote have become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to the growth of independent travel, fostered by the internet. Which now enables tourists to book and build their own holidays direct online.

Self catering accommodation on Lanzarote is good value and much cheaper than on other Spanish islands such as Mallorca and Ibiza. For example it is possible to book villas in Playa Blanca at the southern tip of the island from as little as €400 per week. Whilst villas in Puerto del Carmen – the islands largest resort – are a little more expensive. With rates starting from around €550 per week.

As well as great weather and accommodation Lanzarote offers loads for visitors to do and see as it is blessed with some incredible scenery and unique attractions. Chief amongst these are the Montana’s del Fuego – scene of massive eruptions in the 18th century. Along with the visitor centres created by the local artist César Manrique – which all work in harmony with the islands volcanic terrain.

Hiring a car on the island is cheap and touring is easy as Lanzarote is very small and the roads are both quiet and safe. Rental rates start at just €145 per day and petrol is much cheaper than in the UK – at about .80 centimos per litre.