I asked ChatGPT about a tour to Lanzarote

Jim

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I've never been there but this is what it came up with. Anyone who knows the Island well, care to comment:

I asked: Design a motorhome tour from Dover to Lanzarote, with an itinerary in Lanzarote to see most everything

ChatGPT returned.

Embarking on a motorhome journey from Dover to Lanzarote is an adventurous endeavour that combines overland travel through Europe with a ferry crossing to the Canary Islands. Below is a comprehensive guide to assist you in planning this trip, including route options, ferry details, and a suggested itinerary to explore Lanzarote's highlights.

1. Route from Dover to Southern Spain:

You have two primary options to reach southern Spain:
  • Overland Route:
    • Dover to Calais Ferry: Cross the English Channel via ferry from Dover to Calais.
    • Drive Through France and Spain: Travel through France, passing cities like Rouen, Tours, and Bordeaux, then continue into Spain via San Sebastián, Burgos, and Madrid, eventually reaching Cádiz or Huelva.
    • Distance and Time: Approximately 1,500 miles, requiring around 24-30 hours of driving time, excluding rest stops.
    • Considerations: This route offers flexibility to explore various regions but involves significant driving and potential toll costs.
  • Direct Ferry to Northern Spain:
    • UK to Spain Ferry: Alternatively, take a ferry from Portsmouth or Plymouth to Santander or Bilbao in northern Spain. Brittany Ferries operates these routes, with sailings taking between 20 and 36 hours, depending on the route and ship.
    • Drive to Southern Spain: From Santander or Bilbao, drive south through Spain to reach Cádiz or Huelva.
    • Considerations: This option reduces driving time but involves longer ferry crossings.
2. Ferry from Southern Spain to Lanzarote:
  • Ferry Operators: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express operate ferries from southern Spain to the Canary Islands.
  • Departure Ports: Ferries depart from Cádiz or Huelva to Lanzarote.
  • Duration: The ferry journey takes approximately 30-40 hours, depending on the service.
  • Booking: It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. Ensure your motorhome complies with the ferry company's size and weight restrictions.
3. Suggested 7-Day Itinerary in Lanzarote:

Day 1: Arrival and Playa Blanca

  • Morning: Arrive in Arrecife, Lanzarote's capital.
  • Afternoon: Drive to Playa Blanca in the south.
  • Evening: Relax at Playa Blanca's beaches and explore the promenade.
Day 2: Timanfaya National Park and El Golfo
  • Morning: Visit Timanfaya National Park to witness volcanic landscapes.
  • Afternoon: Explore El Golfo's green lagoon and nearby Los Hervideros cliffs.
Day 3: La Geria and Teguise
  • Morning: Tour La Geria wine region, known for its unique volcanic vineyards.
  • Afternoon: Visit Teguise, the island's historic former capital.
Day 4: Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes
  • Morning: Explore Jameos del Agua, a volcanic cave transformed by artist César Manrique.
  • Afternoon: Visit Cueva de los Verdes, an impressive lava tube.
Day 5: Mirador del Río and La Graciosa
  • Morning: Drive to Mirador del Río for panoramic views of La Graciosa island.
  • Afternoon: Take a ferry to La Graciosa for a leisurely exploration.
Day 6: César Manrique Foundation and Jardín de Cactus
  • Morning: Visit the César Manrique Foundation to learn about the artist's influence on the island.
  • Afternoon: Explore Jardín de Cactus, a stunning cactus garden.
Day 7: Papagayo Beaches and Departure
  • Morning: Relax at the pristine Papagayo beaches.
  • Afternoon: Prepare for departure, ensuring all travel arrangements are confirmed.
Additional Tips:
  • Accommodation: While Lanzarote has limited official campsites, overnight parking is generally permitted in designated areas. Ensure you adhere to local regulations and avoid prohibited zones.
  • Facilities: Plan for water refills and waste disposal at designated service points.
  • Driving Conditions: Lanzarote's roads are well-maintained, but some coastal routes may be narrow. Exercise caution, especially in a larger vehicle.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural sites, and relaxation, providing a comprehensive experience of Lanzarote's unique charm.
 
One of our favourite winter destinations.

The Bot seems to have covered it pretty well if you want to see the major attractions but what about a couple of afternoons just chilling out in the sun with a drink? Is the Bot tee-total?😉
 
Used ChatGPT to plan our last trip with the text
“Compile a 5 week motorhome tour using a combination of Aires and campsites starting from Calais visiting Ypres and Bruges, Luxembourg, Alsace and back to Calais avoiding toll roads”

It came back very detailed with lots of choices, we even followed most of it. Too long to post.

It’s also excellent at making up poems for SWHBO’s birthday card😀

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Never tried it before but just did. I'm impressed. I had kind of planned this tour myself loosely in my head for next year and its not a million miles out. It included a lot of the highlights I would myself but its a bit bizarre that it starts of in Milan. However I never specified I was leaving from the UK. Pretty good though.

plan me a motorhome tour in Europe for next summer for three months to include the best of the Alps and the Pyrenees.

ChatGPT said:​


Planning a three-month motorhome tour of Europe focusing on the best of the Alps and Pyrenees is an exciting adventure! Here's a detailed itinerary, divided by regions and highlights, to help you get the most out of your trip next summer.


Trip Overview

Duration: 3 months
Route Focus: Alps and Pyrenees, with scenic drives, outdoor activities, historical towns, and vibrant local culture.


Week 1-2: Start in Northern Italy (Alps)

1. Milan (1-2 days)

  • Begin your journey in Milan, the fashion capital of Italy. Enjoy the Duomo Cathedral, Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, and the shopping galleries.
  • Stock up on supplies for your motorhome journey and plan your route into the Alps.
2. Lake Como (2-3 days)

  • Drive to Lake Como for stunning lakeside views. Visit Bellagio, Como town, and take a boat tour to admire the villas and mountains.
3. Bormio and Stelvio Pass (3-4 days)

  • Head to Bormio, known for its hot springs and stunning mountain scenery.
  • Take the famous Stelvio Pass (one of the highest and most challenging mountain roads in Europe) for breathtaking views and scenic drives.
4. Dolomites National Park (2-3 days)

  • Explore the Dolomites for dramatic limestone peaks. Hike or drive through the Sella Ronda loop.
  • Stay in small mountain villages like Ortisei, Santa Cristina, or Canazei.

Week 3-4: Switzerland

5. Zermatt (3 days)

  • Cross into Switzerland and visit Zermatt, the iconic town beneath the Matterhorn. You can drive as far as Täsch, then take a shuttle to Zermatt (car-free). Explore the Gornergrat railway, hiking, and stunning views of the Matterhorn.
6. Interlaken (3-4 days)

  • Head to Interlaken for classic Swiss beauty. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, it offers incredible outdoor activities, including hiking, paragliding, and boat rides.
  • Take a day trip to Jungfrau (Top of Europe) and explore the surrounding area.
7. Lucerne and Mount Pilatus (2-3 days)

  • Drive towards Lucerne for its beautiful lakeside setting, covered bridges, and medieval architecture.
  • Take a boat ride and then the funicular to Mount Pilatus for panoramic views.
8. Geneva and the Vaud Alps (2 days)

  • Visit Geneva briefly for its international vibe, the Jet d'Eau fountain, and the United Nations.
  • Head into the Vaud Alps region for more relaxed mountain exploration, especially around the towns of Montreux and Lausanne.

Week 5-6: France – The Pyrenees and Occitanie

9. Chamonix and Mont Blanc (2-3 days)

  • Drive to Chamonix on the French side of the Alps. Explore the Mont Blanc massif, take the Aiguille du Midi cable car, and hike in the surrounding areas.
10. The Pyrenees (3 weeks) – Key Stops
Spend the next few weeks immersing yourself in the Pyrenees. The mountain range stretches along the border between France and Spain, offering dramatic peaks, lakes, and villages. Key stops include:

  • Cauterets: A beautiful town with access to the Pont d’Espagne waterfall and several hiking routes.
  • Lourdes: Visit the famous pilgrimage town and explore its surrounding natural beauty.
  • Gavarnie-Gèdre: The Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most stunning natural amphitheaters in the world.
  • Andorra: Cross into the tiny country nestled in the Pyrenees, known for its duty-free shopping and stunning mountain views.
  • Vallée d'Ossau: A beautiful region with majestic mountain landscapes, great for hiking and exploring charming villages.

Week 7-8: Spain (Pyrenees)

11. Aínsa and Ordesa National Park (3 days)

  • Drive into Spain to the town of Aínsa, a medieval town perfect for exploring. It's a great base for hiking in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its spectacular canyons and mountain views.
12. San Sebastián (2-3 days)

  • Take a break from the mountains and head to the Basque coast. San Sebastián offers beautiful beaches, a charming old town, and delicious food (especially pintxos).
13. Pyrenees Catalanes (2-3 days)

  • Cross into the Catalan Pyrenees to explore the rugged landscapes of Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park. Enjoy hiking and discovering picturesque mountain villages.

Week 9-10: Northern Spain and Return to France

14. Picos de Europa (4-5 days)

  • Head west to Picos de Europa in northern Spain. The region offers dramatic mountains, scenic drives, and traditional villages like Cangas de Onís. Don’t miss the Covadonga Lakes and Garganta del Cares hike.
15. Bilbao (2-3 days)

  • Stop by Bilbao to visit the Guggenheim Museum and enjoy the Basque culture and cuisine.

Week 11-12: Back to France (Alps and Return)

16. Carcassonne (2-3 days)

  • Enter southern France and visit Carcassonne, a medieval fortified city with impressive ramparts.
17. Grenoble (2-3 days)

  • Drive into Grenoble, a city surrounded by mountains. You can take a cable car up the Bastille Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding Alps.
18. Annecy and Lac d’Annecy (2 days)

  • Finish your Alps journey with a visit to Annecy, known as the "Venice of the Alps." The lake is stunning and offers boating, hiking, and cycling opportunities.

Additional Recommendations:

  • Campgrounds and Parking: Research motorhome parks and campsites, especially in national parks. Booking ahead in the high summer season is recommended.
  • Activities: Plan outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, cycling, and even paragliding, which are popular in both the Alps and Pyrenees.
  • Local Cuisine: Try regional dishes, from fondue in Switzerland to Basque pintxos and French mountain cheeses.

Tips for a Successful Motorhome Tour

  1. Mountain Roads: Be prepared for some narrow, winding roads, especially in the Alps and Pyrenees. Ensure your motorhome is comfortable for such terrain.
  2. Language: While many in tourist areas speak English, it's useful to know basic French, Italian, Spanish, and possibly some local dialects.
  3. Fuel and Supplies: Plan fuel stops in advance, especially in remote mountain areas. Stock up on groceries when in larger towns.
  4. Weather: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be ready for anything, especially in the higher-altitude areas.
  5. Booking Campsites: Especially in summer, campsites in popular tourist areas may fill up quickly, so it's a good idea to book ahead.

This itinerary provides a balance of scenic drives, outdoor adventures, charming towns, and cultural experiences, ensuring you get the best of both the Alps and Pyrenees!
4o mini
 
Having lived here 9 years, I'd say that all the info seems good.

I'd give you a personal guided tour as well 😉


The ferries are very good and free meals all the way.
I will personally recommend the guided tour by Yorick. That plus one day in a 24€ hire car to see the rest of the bits in the ChatGPT list. That gives you 5 days sunning on the beach! :sun:🏖️🍸
Worked for us and much easier than ferrying over the MH.

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It’s called Lanzagrotty for a reason Jim. We went again and thought we’d give it another chance. Thought we’d do the cultural stuff. By the end I thought that if I heard the name Cesar Manrique again I’d jump off one of those ugly volcanic rocks. Never again, it’s ghastly.

Of course there are some people who disagree but they’re wrong……
 
It’s called Lanzagrotty for a reason Jim. We went again and thought we’d give it another chance. Thought we’d do the cultural stuff. By the end I thought that if I heard the name Cesar Manrique again I’d jump off one of those ugly volcanic rocks. Never again, it’s ghastly.

Of course there are some people who disagree but they’re wrong……
I've lived here for 9 years and will never leave.
You must have been in a shitty place.
 
I've lived here for 9 years and will never leave.
You must have been in a shitty place.
All I remember is being constantly pestered by time share touts everywhere we went! In the end asked them if the spoke Icelandic as our English was not ver gut! seemed to work!

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All I remember is being constantly pestered by time share touts everywhere we went! In the end asked them if the spoke Icelandic as our English was not ver gut! seemed to work!
You must have been in Puerto del Carmen.

No touts in our town.
 
You must have been in Puerto del Carmen.

No touts in our town.
Yep, Fleetwood with sunshine and a rubbish tip at the rear of the hotel ( apologies to anyone from Fleetwood, it is far nicer!)
 
Having lived here 9 years, I'd say that all the info seems good.

I'd give you a personal guided tour as well 😉


The ferries are very good and free meals all the way.
There is no such thing as free meals. They have charged you for them in the tariff.
 
I've never been there but this is what it came up with. Anyone who knows the Island well, care to comment:

I asked: Design a motorhome tour from Dover to Lanzarote, with an itinerary in Lanzarote to see most everything

ChatGPT returned.

Embarking on a motorhome journey from Dover to Lanzarote is an adventurous endeavour that combines overland travel through Europe with a ferry crossing to the Canary Islands. Below is a comprehensive guide to assist you in planning this trip, including route options, ferry details, and a suggested itinerary to explore Lanzarote's highlights.

1. Route from Dover to Southern Spain:

You have two primary options to reach southern Spain:
  • Overland Route:
    • Dover to Calais Ferry: Cross the English Channel via ferry from Dover to Calais.
    • Drive Through France and Spain: Travel through France, passing cities like Rouen, Tours, and Bordeaux, then continue into Spain via San Sebastián, Burgos, and Madrid, eventually reaching Cádiz or Huelva.
    • Distance and Time: Approximately 1,500 miles, requiring around 24-30 hours of driving time, excluding rest stops.
    • Considerations: This route offers flexibility to explore various regions but involves significant driving and potential toll costs.
  • Direct Ferry to Northern Spain:
    • UK to Spain Ferry: Alternatively, take a ferry from Portsmouth or Plymouth to Santander or Bilbao in northern Spain. Brittany Ferries operates these routes, with sailings taking between 20 and 36 hours, depending on the route and ship.
    • Drive to Southern Spain: From Santander or Bilbao, drive south through Spain to reach Cádiz or Huelva.
    • Considerations: This option reduces driving time but involves longer ferry crossings.
2. Ferry from Southern Spain to Lanzarote:
  • Ferry Operators: Naviera Armas and Fred. Olsen Express operate ferries from southern Spain to the Canary Islands.
  • Departure Ports: Ferries depart from Cádiz or Huelva to Lanzarote.
  • Duration: The ferry journey takes approximately 30-40 hours, depending on the service.
  • Booking: It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. Ensure your motorhome complies with the ferry company's size and weight restrictions.
3. Suggested 7-Day Itinerary in Lanzarote:

Day 1: Arrival and Playa Blanca

  • Morning: Arrive in Arrecife, Lanzarote's capital.
  • Afternoon: Drive to Playa Blanca in the south.
  • Evening: Relax at Playa Blanca's beaches and explore the promenade.
Day 2: Timanfaya National Park and El Golfo
  • Morning: Visit Timanfaya National Park to witness volcanic landscapes.
  • Afternoon: Explore El Golfo's green lagoon and nearby Los Hervideros cliffs.
Day 3: La Geria and Teguise
  • Morning: Tour La Geria wine region, known for its unique volcanic vineyards.
  • Afternoon: Visit Teguise, the island's historic former capital.
Day 4: Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes
  • Morning: Explore Jameos del Agua, a volcanic cave transformed by artist César Manrique.
  • Afternoon: Visit Cueva de los Verdes, an impressive lava tube.
Day 5: Mirador del Río and La Graciosa
  • Morning: Drive to Mirador del Río for panoramic views of La Graciosa island.
  • Afternoon: Take a ferry to La Graciosa for a leisurely exploration.
Day 6: César Manrique Foundation and Jardín de Cactus
  • Morning: Visit the César Manrique Foundation to learn about the artist's influence on the island.
  • Afternoon: Explore Jardín de Cactus, a stunning cactus garden.
Day 7: Papagayo Beaches and Departure
  • Morning: Relax at the pristine Papagayo beaches.
  • Afternoon: Prepare for departure, ensuring all travel arrangements are confirmed.
Additional Tips:
  • Accommodation: While Lanzarote has limited official campsites, overnight parking is generally permitted in designated areas. Ensure you adhere to local regulations and avoid prohibited zones.
  • Facilities: Plan for water refills and waste disposal at designated service points.
  • Driving Conditions: Lanzarote's roads are well-maintained, but some coastal routes may be narrow. Exercise caution, especially in a larger vehicle.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of natural wonders, cultural sites, and relaxation, providing a comprehensive experience of Lanzarote's unique charm.
Well it has given you all the must see tourist attractions and the route seems good. But, and there is always a but, there are no camping or motorhome sites in Lanzarote, so no EHU, and there are only two places on the island where you can empty and fill water. So unless you can go 7 days without emptying and filling you will need to plan your trip around the two service stations. Having said that, I really do recommend you visit the island as it is fabulous. Bear in mind that the ferry from mainland Spain will cost close to €3.000 with a 7.5m van and two people if you don't have a residents discount.
 
Is this a app or Sumthing is it more stuff to clog up my phone
WB

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Well it has given you all the must see tourist attractions and the route seems good. But, and there is always a but, there are no camping or motorhome sites in Lanzarote, so no EHU, and there are only two places on the island where you can empty and fill water. So unless you can go 7 days without emptying and filling you will need to plan your trip around the two service stations. Having said that, I really do recommend you visit the island as it is fabulous. Bear in mind that the ferry from mainland Spain will cost close to €3.000 with a 7.5m van and two people if you don't have a residents discount.
When I had my van here before we bought the villa, a friendly petrol station let me fill with water and drop my loo in their loos if I filled up with fuel.

There's at least 20 vans in our little town at any one time.
 
It’s called Lanzagrotty for a reason Jim. We went again and thought we’d give it another chance. Thought we’d do the cultural stuff. By the end I thought that if I heard the name Cesar Manrique again I’d jump off one of those ugly volcanic rocks. Never again, it’s ghastly.

Of course there are some people who disagree but they’re wrong……
No, you're wrong. It's called Lanzagrotty by the drunken British louts who only go on holiday to get off their faces and then discover that this behaviour is not tolerated. Lanzarote is a beautiful island, it has a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protected site status and Timanfaya is a Spanish National Park.

César Manrique was an architect, artist and promotor of the upkeep of the island. He was responsible for the local laws of the way buildings were constructed and the colours used to maintain a theme for the island which is still visible to this day. The 'Los Jameos de agua' site is just one of his amazing feats.

In the eighties when the drunken brits were trashing 'Playa de Las Américas' in Tenerife and 'Playa del Inglés' in Gran Canaria, César Manrique was fomenting culture and civilisation in Lanzarote and his legacy is evident in the whole island today. It is also one of the cleanest places I have ever seen in the world.

The wine culture is another fascinating achievement on the island, the way they use the volcanic stones to protect the vids is quite something to behold, and their wines (mostly white) are as good as you get anywhere else.

So no, it is not Lanzagrotty.
 
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No, you're wrong. It's called Lanzagrotty by the drunken British louts who only go on holiday to get off their faces and then discover that this behaviour is not tolerated. Lanzarote is a beautiful island, it has a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protected site status and Timanfaya is a Spanish National Park.

César Manrique was an architect, artist and promotor of the upkeep of the island. He was responsible for the local laws of the way buildings were constructed and the colours used to maintain a theme for the island which is still visible to this day. The 'Los Jameos de agua' site is just one of his amazing feats.

In the eighties when the drunken brits were trashing Playa de Las Américas in Tenerife and 'Playa del Inglés' in Gran Canaria, César Manrique was fomenting culture and civilisation in Lanzarote and his legacy is evident in the whole island today. It is also one of the cleanest places I have ever seen in the world.

The wine culture is another fascinating achievement on the island, the way they use the volcanic stones to protect the vids is quite something to behold, and their wines (mostly white) are as good as you get anywhere else.

So no, it is not Lanzagrotty.
Agree entirely with your post!👍

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No, you're wrong. It's called Lanzagrotty by the drunken British louts who only go on holiday to get off their faces and then discover that this behaviour is not tolerated. Lanzarote is a beautiful island, it has a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protected site status and Timanfaya is a Spanish National Park.

César Manrique was an architect, artist and promotor of the upkeep of the island. He was responsible for the local laws of the way buildings were constructed and the colours used to maintain a theme for the island which is still visible to this day. The 'Los Jameos de agua' site is just one of his amazing feats.

In the eighties when the drunken brits were trashing Playa de Las Américas in Tenerife and 'Playa del Inglés' in Gran Canaria, César Manrique was fomenting culture and civilisation in Lanzarote and his legacy is evident in the whole island today. It is also one of the cleanest places I have ever seen in the world.

The wine culture is another fascinating achievement on the island, the way they use the volcanic stones to protect the vids is quite something to behold, and their wines (mostly white) are as good as you get anywhere else.

So no, it is not Lanzagrotty.
I know all about Cesar Manrique, I don’t need a lecture from you thankyou. I have been there more than once and it is my opinion that it is aptly named Lanzagrotty. I don’t drink. I don’t laze about on the beach. I have have witnessed the ugly volcanic landscape.
 
No, you're wrong. It's called Lanzagrotty by the drunken British louts who only go on holiday to get off their faces and then discover that this behaviour is not tolerated. Lanzarote is a beautiful island, it has a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve protected site status and Timanfaya is a Spanish National Park.

César Manrique was an architect, artist and promotor of the upkeep of the island. He was responsible for the local laws of the way buildings were constructed and the colours used to maintain a theme for the island which is still visible to this day. The 'Los Jameos de agua' site is just one of his amazing feats.

In the eighties when the drunken brits were trashing 'Playa de Las Américas' in Tenerife and 'Playa del Inglés' in Gran Canaria, César Manrique was fomenting culture and civilisation in Lanzarote and his legacy is evident in the whole island today. It is also one of the cleanest places I have ever seen in the world.

The wine culture is another fascinating achievement on the island, the way they use the volcanic stones to protect the vids is quite something to behold, and their wines (mostly white) are as good as you get anywhere else.

So no, it is not Lanzagrotty.
Wow. What a fantastic educated answer
 
I know all about Cesar Manrique, I don’t need a lecture from you thankyou. I have been there more than once and it is my opinion that it is aptly named Lanzagrotty. I don’t drink. I don’t laze about on the beach. I have have witnessed the ugly volcanic landscape.
Ok. I'm sat outside on my patio overlooking my pool

It's still 25c right now.

I don't care if you don't like it here.
 
Not sure about day 1 in Playa Blanca and day 7 at Papagayo beach because they are right next to each other. Possibly to do a circuit of the island and bring you back near the airport etc.

I have been lots of times and enjoyed it, but it’s not the prettiest of places.

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