I reside in Paris, and this winter travel spot is my top-secret gem.

      Monica Mendal serves as an editor in residence at Who What Wear and has a background as a fashion editor and travel writer. She is also the author of So There's This Place…— a Substack newsletter where she provides curated guides, insider tips, and recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations. As a travel writer and former fashion editor living in Paris, I have extensively traveled across European countries like France, Italy, and Spain, focusing my travel reporting for publications such as Vogue, Prior, and my Substack, So There's This Place…, on being at the forefront of trends. My articles spotlight lesser-known locations and charming boutique hotels that aren't yet on everyone’s radar, leading me to one of my favorite hidden gems.

      When winter envelops Paris and daylight fades shortly after lunch, I often find myself yearning for a destination where the sun still shines. A few years back, I stumbled upon the perfect remedy for the dreary Parisian winters: Lanzarote, a sun-drenched island in the Canary Islands, which remains one of Europe's warmest spots during winter months.

      Visitors flock to this island for its stunning volcanic scenery, picturesque hiking paths, golden beaches, excellent surf, and locally produced wines rich in minerals. What surprised me most about Lanzarote is its unexpected vibrancy. Beyond the natural wonders, the island thrives with art and culture, significantly influenced by the visionary architect César Manrique. His creative projects have beautifully fused architecture with Lanzarote’s volcanic terrain, and his legacy continues to shape the island's identity today.

      You can visit his former studio and home in Haría to appreciate his bold, organic designs; enjoy sweeping coastline views from the Mirador del Río; stroll amidst the sculptural cacti at Jardín de Cactus; and explore the winding paths of Lagomar Museum, built into volcanic rock. Even dining at the fiery Restaurant El Diablo, located over a volcanic vent, or visiting Eguzkine for artisanal ceramics showcases the island's eclectic character. With a collection of stylish boutique hotels scattered throughout, your winter getaway promises to deliver much more than anticipated. Below, I am sharing my favorite boutique accommodations and the top seven must-see attractions when visiting Lanzarote this winter. Additionally, I’ll share what I packed and wore during my stay.

      **Favorite Stays in Lanzarote**

      *Buenavista Lanzarote Country Suites*

      Lanzarote features delightful boutique hotels that exude charm and personality, providing a refreshing alternative to the more crowded tourist resorts in the island's south. A highlight is Buenavista Lanzarote Country Suites, a design ecolodge situated in the volcanic landscape between Timanfaya National Park and La Geria. This intimate retreat offers five minimalist suites with expansive windows framing stunning views of vineyards and volcanic scenery. It is a sanctuary for art and nature lovers, providing a peaceful escape focused on sustainability and local craftsmanship.

      *Casa de las Flores*

      Another favorite is Casa de las Flores, a chic boutique hotel set in the historical town of Teguise. Occupying a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion, the hotel features five art-filled rooms, a private pool, and a sun terrace, all made warmer by the owners' hospitality and cozy breakfasts served in the courtyard. Its central position makes it an excellent base for island exploration, with Famara Beach just a short drive away.

      *Hotel César Lanzarote*

      On my upcoming visit, I'm looking forward to experiencing the newly opened Hotel César Lanzarote, a stylish adults-only getaway nestled in the volcanic hills of La Geria. Once the property of Manrique's family and later a girls' school, it has been transformed into a 20-room boutique hotel. Each room features ocean or volcano views, many with private terraces, and the hotel boasts a freeform infinity pool, spa, restaurant serving locally sourced dishes, and sustainable design elements.

      **Arts and Culture in Lanzarote**

      *César Manrique Foundation*

      Situated in the artist's former home and studio, the César Manrique Foundation in Tahíche is one of Lanzarote's most prominent cultural venues. Constructed atop a lava field, the house ingeniously includes five natural volcanic bubbles into its architecture, merging art, design, and natural beauty in Manrique's unique style. The foundation preserves his legacy, showcasing his artwork and rotating exhibitions while offering visitors an intimate insight into his creative spirit and strong commitment to environmental harmony.

      *César Manrique House Museum in Haría*

      Nestled among palm groves in the peaceful village of Haría, the César Manrique House Museum was the artist's final home and studio. This residence, contrasting with the more modern house in Tahíche, reflects a softer, more personal side of Manrique with traditional Canarian architecture and rustic charm. Visitors can explore his preserved living spaces, workshop, and lush gardens, gaining a deeper understanding of his daily life and lasting ties to Lanzarote.

      *Mirador