In 1993, Lanzarote was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is the first time that an entire island has received this special recognition. Yet, opinions about Lanzarote are divided—some long for the familiarity of lush green meadows and forests, while others lose themselves in the alien expanse of the barren volcanic cones. The bizarre fire mountains, formed from violent magma eruptions, present an ancient and eerie sight. Mysterious and almost unreal in their stillness, underground caves and tunnels hide within the solidified lava.

Around 250,000 Germans visit the northeasternmost island of the Canary group each year. The island is also famous and popular for its miles of black, white, and golden sandy beaches, which offer plenty for water sports enthusiasts. Since tourism only began much later, architectural blunders have been kept to a minimum. César Manrique, the island's most famous artist, shaped the architecture of the holiday resorts until his accidental death in 1993, closely aligning them with traditional building styles. Eberhard Fohrer, who lived on Lanzarote for an extended period, explores all aspects of tourism on this island in his travel guide, providing countless tips and background information.