I asked ChatGPT about a tour to Lanzarote

That's amazing. The only thing is it's done me out of a job!
Oh dear. Was marvelling at it all and then remembered we haven't got a motorhome now. Just had to sell it because we;'e not up to using it now. Boo hoo.
 
Never saw time share touts when we went either time!
That because they haven't been there for about 30 years. I don't even think there are any time shares places there are there.
 
I have a 4 bed villa with private pool in playa Blanca we rent out . Send me a pm for details.
 
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.
I’ve used it to plan our Christmas trip to France, it’s very good, if you ask it, it will provide road numbers and avoid clean air zones etc.
 
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.
Volcanic landscape's is what thousands come to see, and the landscape is beautiful in their eyes, but then anyone visiting this Island would be expected to know that.
 
Volcanic landscape's is what thousands come to see, and the landscape is beautiful in their eyes, but then anyone visiting this Island would be expected to know that.
Fantastic volcanic landscapes, used many times as locations for films due to their 'other worldly' appearance. Nobody on this planet could ever not be impressed. Well except for the drunken Brits of course, but then they don't see the landscape from inside a bar.

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Volcanic landscape's is what thousands come to see, and the landscape is beautiful in their eyes, but then anyone visiting this Island would be expected to know that.
On the whole I find I only know whether or not I like things by seeing or experiencing them in real life not just by reading about them or looking at a few pictures. I didn’t know I wasn’t going to like sweetcorn by looking at jolly green giant adverts when I was a child.
 
Fantastic volcanic landscapes, used many times as locations for films due to their 'other worldly' appearance. Nobody on this planet could ever not be impressed. Well except for the drunken Brits of course, but then they don't see the landscape from inside a bar.
I've got a 4WD and take folk off the beaten track where the tours don't go.

I've surprised a lot of folk who've lived here long time.

And on the dirt bikes, we can really explore.
 
I am not going to do it in such a short time
Planning a 4-day trip from Dover to Benidorm in a motorhome requires careful consideration of driving time, rest stops, and overnight stays. The distance is approximately 1,350 miles (2,172 km) one way, which would take about 20-24 hours of driving time, depending on your route and stops. Here’s a suggested itinerary:





Day 1: Dover to Bordeaux, France


• Driving Distance: ~580 miles (~930 km)


• Driving Time: ~10-11 hours


• Route:


1. Cross the English Channel via ferry or Eurotunnel from Dover to Calais.


2. Take the A16/E402 towards Rouen, then continue south via the A10 towards Bordeaux.


• Overnight Stop: Stay at a motorhome-friendly campsite near Bordeaux, such as Camping Bordeaux Lac or Aire Camping-Car Park.





Day 2: Bordeaux to Valencia, Spain


• Driving Distance: ~580 miles (~930 km)


• Driving Time: ~10-11 hours


• Route:


1. Follow the A63 towards the Spanish border, then take the AP-8 toll road into Spain.


2. Continue south via AP-7/E-15 through Bilbao and Zaragoza, heading towards Valencia.


• Overnight Stop: Park at a motorhome campsite near Valencia, like Camping Valencia or Devesa Gardens Camping.





Day 3: Valencia to Benidorm, Spain


• Driving Distance: ~90 miles (~145 km)


• Driving Time: ~1.5-2 hours


• Route: Take the AP-7/E-15 south to Benidorm.


• Day Activities in Benidorm: Explore the beaches, enjoy local cuisine, or visit attractions like Terra Mítica or L’Aigüera Park.


• Overnight Stop: Stay at a motorhome site in Benidorm, such as Camping Villamar or Camping Armanello.





Day 4: Benidorm to Dover (Return Journey)


• Option 1: Drive back the same route, splitting the return journey into two long driving days with an overnight stop in France (e.g., near Tours or Rouen).


• Option 2: Adjust plans if more time is needed; consider extending to 5 days to make the return trip more comfortable.





Important Tips for Your Trip


1. Tolls: French and Spanish highways often have tolls; plan your budget accordingly.


2. Breaks: Take regular breaks during long drives to avoid fatigue.


3. Motorhome Parking: Research motorhome-friendly stops and campsites in advance to ensure availability.


4. Documents: Carry your driving license, vehicle registration, insurance, and European breakdown cover.


5. Supplies: Stock up on essentials like food, water, and motorhome utilities before departing.


6. Ferry/Eurotunnel Reservations: Book your crossing in advance to avoid delays.





Would you like more specific campsite recommendations or route details?

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