Modern vertical windbreak awnings are offering shade, privacy and protection while still allowing outdoor spaces to feel open and connected.

One of the pleasures of living in Lanzarote is spending time outdoors, but August sunshine often sends people searching for shelter during the hottest hours of the day. The challenge is finding protection without closing off the view that makes many terraces so enjoyable.

Vertical windbreak awnings are designed to provide that balance. Installed around terraces, patios and outdoor seating areas, they can reduce direct sunlight while also offering additional privacy and protection from the breeze.

For properties with attractive surroundings, versions incorporating transparent PVC windows allow owners to maintain their outlook while benefiting from added shelter. Depending on individual requirements, the awnings can also be manufactured without windows using acrylic or PVC canvas fabrics that are designed to be easy to clean.

These systems are suitable for both homes and commercial premises where outdoor areas are regularly used throughout the year. Whether creating a more comfortable seating area or adding an extra level of protection for customers and guests, they provide a practical option without permanently enclosing the space.

Sol Y Sombra supplies made-to-measure vertical windbreak awnings manufactured in Spain using quality materials from trusted national and international companies. With more than 20 years of experience, the family business oversees every stage from measuring to installation.

Customers considering improvements can also visit the company’s showroom in Tías, opposite Hiperdino Supermarket, where catalogues, colour selectors and product displays offer inspiration for homes and businesses alike.

Email: info@solysom.es

Tel: (+34) 928 52 40 13& (+34) 626 49 27 01

Showroom: Calle Islote Hilario, 8, Local 2, 35572, Tias

Website: https://www.lanzaroteblinds.es/

The post A Simple Way to Enjoy the View Without the Full Force of the Sun first appeared on Gazette Life.

A man has been arrested in Lanzarote after allegedly carrying out a series of thefts at hotels in Playa Blanca before attempting to evade detection by travelling on public buses.

The arrest was made on 4 August following an investigation by officers from the Yaiza police station into a surge in thefts reported across the municipality. The investigation began after four thefts were reported within a 24-hour period during the second week of July.

The breakthrough came when one of the victims used the geolocation function on a stolen mobile phone, which indicated that the device was located at a bus stop in Playa Blanca. Officers responded to the location, where they identified several individuals, including the suspect.

During a search, officers recovered the stolen phone from the man’s backpack. They also found additional items that matched property reported stolen in other incidents earlier that day.

The discovery led investigators to expand their enquiries. CCTV footage from the affected areas allegedly placed the suspect at the locations where the thefts occurred, carrying the same backpack later seized by officers.

According to the investigation, the suspect is believed to have targeted hotel rooms in several resort complexes, entering while guests were away after first checking that the rooms were unoccupied.

Investigators also concluded that he regularly used public transport to travel between locations, a method they believe was intended to make it more difficult for police to track his movements and identify him.

The man has since appeared before the relevant judicial authority along with the evidence gathered during the investigation.

The Guardia Civil said the operation forms part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen security in Lanzarote’s tourism sector, helping to ensure that visitors can enjoy the island safely while protecting both their personal belongings and their peace of mind.

The post Man Arrested After Series of Hotel Thefts in Playa Blanca first appeared on Gazette Life.

Two men were injured after a vehicle overturned several times at a roundabout on Avenida de Femés in Playa Blanca, at around 3:20 p.m. on Wednesday.

Emergency services received several calls reporting the accident and dispatched firefighters, an ambulance, and Yaiza Local Police.

Firefighters found that the vehicle, carrying two people, had left the road after crashing heavily into a fence. The occupants were a 50-year-old man and a 21-year-old man.

The older man sustained moderate multiple contusions and was taken to the Playa Blanca health centre. The younger man suffered mild neck pain and was also transported to the centre. Emergency responders reported that one of the occupants had also experienced dizziness and pain in his right arm and head.

Firefighters secured the scene, disconnected the vehicle’s battery as a precaution, and cordoned off the area with caution tape before completing their intervention.

The post Two Injured After Vehicle Overturns Multiple Times in Playa Blanca first appeared on Gazette Life.

Passenger traffic between Lanzarote and La Graciosa declined during the first six months of 2026, with official figures showing fewer travellers using ferry services to the island compared with the same period last year.

The port of Caleta del Sebo handled 235,936 passengers between January and June, a fall of 6.6% compared with the first half of 2025. This represents 16,822 fewer passengers overall.

Regular ferry services accounted for most of the decline, carrying 13,693 fewer passengers, a drop of 5.77%. Meanwhile, non-scheduled commercial services and excursion traffic fell by 20.11%, with passenger numbers decreasing to 12,434.

The port of Órzola, also recorded lower traffic. A total of 229,116 passengers passed through the port during the first half of the year, down 5.92% from the same period in 2025, equivalent to 14,409 fewer travellers.

The island’s busiest regional port, Playa Blanca, saw a much smaller overall decline. Between January and June, it handled 559,407 passengers, 2,199 fewer than in the first half of last year, representing a decrease of just 0.39%.

Passenger numbers on regular ferry routes fell by 23,394, a decrease of 4.31%, while non-regular passenger services and tourist excursions more than doubled. This category increased by 107.63%, rising from 19,088 passengers in the first half of 2025 to 39,632 during the same period this year.

The sharpest decline was recorded at the Port of La Tiñosa. The Puerto del Carmen facility handled just 6,209 passengers during the first six months of 2026, compared with 12,211 a year earlier, a drop of 49.15%.

Without any regular scheduled ferry services, La Tiñosa’s passenger traffic is entirely made up of excursion and charter operations. Activity was largely confined to January and February, with passenger numbers falling to negligible levels for the remainder of the first half of the year.

The post Visits to La Graciosa Fall in the First Half of 2026 first appeared on Gazette Life.

Lanzarote Airport welcomed 800,545 passengers in July 2026, setting a new all-time record for the month and marking the first time the airport has exceeded 800,000 passengers in July. The figure represents a modest 0.2% increase compared with July 2025.

Across the Canary Islands, airports handled a combined 4,698,056 passengers during the month, up 1.3% year-on-year.

Of the total, 4,685,799 passengers travelled on commercial flights. Domestic traffic continued to grow, with 2,224,719 passengers, an increase of 4.3% compared with July last year. International flights carried 2,461,080 passengers, a slight 0.1% decline.

Gran Canaria Airport remained the busiest in the archipelago, handling 1,349,122 passengers, up 4.9%. It was followed by Tenerife South with 1,039,708 (-5.0%), César Manrique-Lanzarote with 800,545 (+0.2%), Tenerife North-Ciudad de La Laguna with 706,962 (+6.7%), Fuerteventura with 610,406 (-1.2%), La Palma with 146,151 (+9.1%), El Hierro with 32,043 (+5.1%), and La Gomera with 13,119 (+6.9%).

During July, the Canary Islands’ airports also handled 42,068 aircraft movements and 2,637 tonnes of cargo.

From January to July 2026, the Canary Islands’ airport network recorded 31,545,882 passengers, a slight 0.4% decrease compared with the same period in 2025.

Of the 31,415,484 commercial passengers, 12,871,994 travelled on domestic flights, an increase of 0.5%, while 18,543,490 travelled on international routes, down 0.7% year-on-year.

Over the first seven months of the year, the airports handled 282,879 aircraft movements and 18,018 tonnes of cargo.

The post Lanzarote Airport Handled Over 800,000 Passengers in July 2026 first appeared on Gazette Life.

The beach at Caleta de Famara was closed yesterday after health inspectors detected “microbiological contamination” in the waters. The closure affects the small-town beach, and not the much larger Famara beach, where a red flag warning against bathing is permanently on display.  

The exact nature of the contamination has not been confirmed, but the same beach was briefly closed last year when traces of E.coli, a type of bacteria that is usually related to sewage, were detected.

Organisers of the Famara Total trail race, which will take place in the Famara zone over the weekend, have stated that the event will not be affected by the news.  

It’s the latest beach closure in a summer that has also seen bathing prohibited at Arrecife’s Playa Reducto and the Playa de la Cura in Playa Honda, and which has highlighted the problems caused by an increased population and ageing sanitation network.

The post Caleta de Famara beach temporarily closed after water contamination detected first appeared on Gazette Life.

Lanzarote paused just before sunset yesterday as thousands of people looked westward to observe the partial eclipse of the sun.

All over the island, groups of people gathered. Many chose to go to viewpoints on the western coast of the island, but as the sun is visible on most of the island, many others chose to stay close to home or extend their visit to the beach. Conditions for viewing were good, with just a very light calima haze and a few clouds that did not obscure the sun.

Many of the observers attempted to watch the eclipse on their mobile phones or simple homemade projectors, after discovering that special eclipse sunglasses were impossible to get hold of. On the promenade at La Santa, where the Elder Science Museum had organised a viewing and promised to hand out a limited number of glasses, hundreds gathered, most of whom ended up disappointed.

The eclipse reached its maximum at 7.51 pm, with almost 75% of the sun covered, but many lingered until it sank over the horizon at 8.45.

The ancient inhabitants of Lanzarote and the Canaries are reported to have worshipped the sun, naming it Magec – “one who possesses splendour and brilliance”.  Yesterday, the island turned to the skies once again.

Photo: @j.mendez.fotografia on Instagram

The post Lanzarote pauses to observe partial eclipse first appeared on Gazette Life.

Beach days are what holidays in Lanzarote are all about, but sometimes everyone needs a break from the sand and sunshine. If you’re staying in Costa Teguise, Funky Mini Golf is the perfect family attraction just moments from Playa de las Cucharas.

Instead of heading back to your accommodation during the hottest part of the day, step into a world of glowing colours, funky artwork, and exciting challenges. The fully indoor venue stays comfortable all day long, giving families a chance to cool down while enjoying something completely different.

Funky Mini Golf features 15 imaginative UV neon-lit holes, each designed to entertain players of every age. The colourful graffiti décor and themed areas, including an impressive outer space section, create a unique setting that makes every round feel like an adventure.

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. In fact, the evening experience is even more spectacular as the neon lights create an electric atmosphere that’s ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends. Whether you visit after dinner or during the afternoon, you’ll enjoy two very different experiences at the same venue.

Parents can relax with a drink from the bar while the children perfect their putting skills, making Funky Mini Golf a fantastic option for an afternoon break or an evening out.

Open daily from 10am until 11pm, with tickets priced at €9 for adults and €7 for children aged 12 and under, it’s one of the easiest ways to add extra fun to your Costa Teguise holiday this summer.

https://funkyminigolf.com/

FIND US

FOLLOW US

https://www.facebook.com/funkyminigolf

https://www.instagram.com/funkyminigolf

https://www.tiktok.com/@funkyminigolf

The post Looking for a Break from Playa de las Cucharas? Visit Funky Mini Golf in Costa Teguise first appeared on Gazette Life.

This week we wanted to share a real-life example of how The Leaky Finders detected, located, repaired, and reinstated a hidden water leak in just one afternoon using advanced technology and surgical precision.

The call: A spinning water meter, no visible signs of a leak, and holiday guests arriving imminently. The customer needed answers, fast.

Can you imagine going to check your precious investment with your next guests practically on the plane and finding you have a leak but more importantly you have a leak you can’t even see.  Cue panic, cue a call to the Leaky Finders, cue us swinging into action.

All Completed in One Afternoon

• ✅ Leak detected and pinpointed
• ✅ Internal camera inspection
• ✅ Minimal excavation (single tile lift)
• ✅ Professional repair by qualified plumber
• ✅ Complete reinstatement
• ✅ Full documented report submitted

Step 1: Pinpoint Accuracy

Advanced Technology Locates the Source

Using state-of-the-art acoustic and trace gas equipment, we pinpoint the exact location of the leak. This precision eliminates guesswork and unnecessary damage to your property.

Our specialist uses advanced acoustic detection equipment to listen for the telltale sounds of water escaping from pressurised pipes. We find it first time, every time.

Step 2: Internal Camera Evidence

Precision Location & Depth

Our advanced CCTV camera head can be precisely located from the surface with centimetre accuracy, including exact depth measurement. This ensures we know exactly where to dig before breaking ground.

Internal camera inspection at 4.39m depth reveals the crack in the pipe. Documented evidence for insurance claims. Location accuracy: centimetre precision.

Step 3: Minimal Excavation

Single Tile Lift Demonstrates Surgical Precision.

Our targeted approach means lifting just one tile to access the leak. This minimal disruption method protects your property and speeds up the entire process. Important when those guests are just crossing the Portuguese airspace.

Only what’s necessary: a single tile lift provides access to the damaged pipe section below. Minimal disruption, only what is necessary.

Step 4: Expose the Leak

Careful Excavation Reveals the Problem Once the exact location is confirmed, we carefully excavate to expose the damaged pipe. The controlled approach ensures we can assess and repair the issue efficiently.

Water actively flowing from the exposed pipe. Visual confirmation of the leak we detected from the surface. Controlled access to the damaged section.

Step 5: Leak Confirmed

Status: Active Leak Identified.

The leak is exposed and actively flowing, confirming our detection was accurate. This documentation is critical for insurance claims.

Video evidence of the active leak, essential documentation for your insurance submission. Visual evidence supports insurance claim submission

Step 6: Professional Repair

Qualified Plumber Completes the Repair.

A qualified plumber repairs the damaged pipe section to industry standards. Professional repair ensures the fix is permanent and meets all regulatory requirements.

New pipe sections and fittings installed to industry standards, a permanent solution. Qualified repair meets insurance and regulatory standards.

Step 7: Complete Reinstatement

Property Restored to Original Condition.

The area is fully reinstated with tiles replaced and grouting completed. You wouldn’t know we were there.

Tiles replaced, grouting completed. The property restored to its original condition. Like we were never there.

Why This Matters

Most leak detection companies can find a leak. Few can offer the complete service we provide:

• Detection: Advanced acoustic and trace gas equipment.
• Documentation: CCTV camera evidence for insurance.
• Minimal disruption: Surgical precision excavation.
• Professional repair: Qualified plumber on-site.
• Full reinstatement: Property restored to original condition.
• Insurance reports: Comprehensive documentation submitted.

What Is Emergency Leak Detection in Lanzarote?

Emergency leak detection is the process of locating and repairing a water leak as quickly as possible when delay is not an option. In Lanzarote, emergency leak situations typically involve one of three scenarios: a water meter spinning with no visible cause and guests arriving imminently, a sudden drop in water pressure throughout a property, or visible water appearing beneath floor tiles or seeping through walls without an obvious source.

Unlike a routine leak survey booked days in advance, an emergency call requires an immediate response and the ability to complete detection, repair, and reinstatement on the same visit where possible. That is what Canary Detect is set up to do.

When Should You Call for Emergency Leak Repair?

Several situations warrant calling for emergency leak detection and repair rather than waiting for a standard appointment.

Spinning Water Meter with No Obvious Cause

If you check your water meter with all taps and appliances switched off and the meter is still spinning or ticking, you have an active leak somewhere in your property’s water system. The faster the meter moves, the more serious the leak. A fast-spinning meter indicates a pipe has failed and water is escaping continuously. Every hour of delay adds to the water loss, the water bill, and the potential for structural damage.

Water Appearing Through Floors or Walls

Water visibly seeping through a tiled floor or appearing as a damp patch spreading across a wall indicates a pipe failure behind or beneath the surface. This type of leak typically means water has already been escaping for some time before it becomes visible. The longer it continues, the more water works into the surrounding structure.

Rental Property with Imminent Guests

A leaking property with guests due to arrive is one of the most common emergency situations we handle. A spinning meter or suspected leak discovered on the morning of a changeover day requires same-day detection and repair to avoid cancellation and the consequent loss of rental income.

Sudden Loss of Pressure Across the Property

If water pressure drops noticeably at all taps and showers simultaneously, this often indicates a major pipe failure somewhere on the supply line. The water is escaping faster than it can reach the outlets in the property.

Why Speed Matters for Lanzarote Property Owners

Water damage in Lanzarote properties accumulates faster than many owners realise. The volcanic soil beneath most properties across the island has low water absorption capacity, meaning water from a leaking pipe pools beneath the surface and spreads laterally. Over days or weeks, this saturates the substrate beneath floor tiles, weakens adhesive bonds, causes subsidence, and creates conditions for mould growth within wall structures.

Properties that are unoccupied for periods also suffer from the lack of early detection. A leak that starts during the winter between rental seasons can cause significant structural damage before anyone notices. Emergency detection and repair on a Lanzarote property discovered to have an active leak before the season begins is always a sound investment compared with letting the damage continue.

Prevent a Leak?

Canary Detect now offer LeakGuard which offers 24/7 monitoring of your water supply alerting you and us to leaks the moment something unusual is happening.

Find out more at https://leakguardlanzarote.com

Got a Leak? Don’t Wait. Don’t Wait.

Hidden leaks cause structural damage, mould, and sky-high water bills. The longer you wait, the worse it gets.

Get a free leak confirmation test →

Contact Canary Detect for emergency leak detection across Lanzarote.

Contact us now →

The post Emergency Leak Detection & Repair: Complete in One Afternoon. Leak Found, Leak Fixed first appeared on Gazette Life.

Lanzarote will witness a partial solar eclipse on Wednesday evening, with up to 74% of the Sun obscured in some parts of the island. The event coincides with the annual Perseid meteor shower, making it a notable day for skywatchers.

The eclipse is the first of three solar eclipses that will be visible from Spain between 2026 and 2028.

What time is the eclipse?

According to the National Geographic Institute (IGN), the eclipse will begin at 6:56pm in the Canary Islands, reach its maximum at 7:51pm, and end as the Sun sets at 8:36pm.

How to watch it safely

The eclipse should only be viewed using certified solar eclipse glasses. Looking directly at the Sun without proper eye protection can cause permanent retinal damage or blindness.

The IGN also advises against using homemade filters or improvised viewing devices. Eclipse glasses should be free from scratches or cracks and, even when wearing them, it is recommended not to look at the Sun continuously for more than a minute at a time.

Taking photographs

Anyone hoping to photograph the eclipse should use a certified solar filter on their camera or smartphone. Without one, the camera’s sensor or lens could be damaged by the Sun’s intense light.

Where to watch the eclipse

The National Geographic Institute has published an online map showing viewing conditions across the island, including the expected level of solar coverage and weather forecasts for different locations:

https://visualizadores.ign.es/eclipses/2026

The Elder Museum of Science and Technology will also host public viewing points in Lanzarote, where certified eclipse glasses will be available.

In Lanzarote, the viewing area will be on the La Santa promenade, above the steps, and will be open from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. Telescopes will also be available for the public to use.

In addition to the eclipse, skywatchers may also have the chance to see the Perseid meteor shower, commonly known as the Tears of Saint Lawrence, later in the evening if weather conditions are favourable.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Wednesday’s Solar Eclipse in Lanzarote first appeared on Gazette Life.