Sitting around one of the many swimming pools at Sands Beach Resort hotel, enjoying modern holiday luxury, it’s difficult to imagine the honeycomb of lava tunnels under Lanzarote. The best way to find out more is to visit the biggest of them all, the 7 km tunnel from Volcan de la Corona, and give your senses a treat at La Cueva de los Verdes, the Green Caves.

The caves are in the northern tip of Lanzarote and were once a hiding place from invading pirates and slave traders. These days they welcome visitors to see the amazing shapes and patterns carved by the flow of the hot lava some 4,500 years ago. As if natures wonders were not spectacular enough, artist Jesus Soto added his own touch with eerie lighting. That first touch of art has been built on by the Lanzarote government and now music is also added to give a complete sensory display.

The lava formations are equally fascinating to geologists, artists and tourists and arouse different responses from each visitor. Your camera and mind will be working overtime appreciating this insight into Lanzarote’s unique past.