Barcelo Lanzarote Active Resort is a premier four-star destination located on the beachfront of Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, designed specifically to balance high-performance sports with family leisure. Born from the integration of the former Occidental Lanzarote Mar and Occidental Lanzarote Playa, the resort underwent a massive renovation in 2022 to offer 814 modernized rooms and world-class athletic facilities. It is famous for its heated 10-lane Olympic swimming pool, a professional cycling center with high-end rentals, and a 485-square-meter fitness center featuring Les Mills programs.
In this guide, you will learn about the exclusive Royal Level experience, the diverse culinary offerings across five restaurants—including Asian fusion at KOI—and practical tips for triathletes and families alike. Whether you are training for an Ironman or seeking a relaxed beachfront holiday with direct access to El Ancla Cove, this resort provides a versatile infrastructure to meet every need. With its proximity to Lanzarote Airport (just 12.5 km away) and major attractions like Timanfaya National Park, the Barcelo Lanzarote Active Resort stands as a central hub for modern travelers in the Canary Islands.
Strategic Location in Costa Teguise
The resort is situated at Avenida del Mar, 6, in the coastal town of Costa Teguise on the eastern side of Lanzarote. This location is approximately 13 km from the island’s capital, Arrecife, and offers direct access to the tranquil El Ancla Cove, a rocky beach perfect for snorkeling and ocean swims.
Costa Teguise is favored by tourists for its blend of traditional Canarian charm and modern amenities. Guests can easily reach local landmarks like the César Manrique Foundation (6 km away) or the Aquapark Costa Teguise (1.9 km), making it an ideal base for both exploration and sports training.
World-Class Olympic Swimming Facilities
The centerpiece for aquatic athletes is the heated 10-lane Olympic pool, maintained at a consistent 26°C year-round. This facility allows for professional-grade training sessions, with options to reserve private lanes for an additional fee or join shared lanes during peak hours.
Beyond the Olympic pool, the resort features nine outdoor swimming pools, including dedicated areas for children. The swimming infrastructure is supported by on-site lifeguards, equipment rentals, and even apnea (freediving) lessons, catering to everyone from competitive triathletes to recreational swimmers.
Professional Cycling and Bike Center
Lanzarote is a world-renowned destination for cycling, and the resort’s dedicated Cycling Center serves as a specialized hub for enthusiasts. It features a boutique, secure bike storage with lockable racks, a fully-equipped workshop for maintenance, and high-quality bike rentals.
The resort organizes group outings and provides detailed route information for all skill levels, ranging from flat coastal paths to challenging volcanic climbs. Because the island hosts the grueling Ironman Lanzarote, the resort’s facilities are tailored to meet the standards of serious endurance athletes.
High-Performance Fitness and Les Mills
The resort boasts a massive 485-square-meter gym that combines indoor and outdoor training zones. It is equipped with state-of-the-art cardiovascular machines, a dedicated free weights area, and functional training spaces designed for high-intensity workouts.
A unique feature of the fitness program is the integration of the Les Mills Method, offering over 450 choreographed workouts. Guests can participate in live classes or follow digital routines via the Barceló TV channel in their rooms, ensuring their training schedule remains uninterrupted.
The Royal Level Exclusive Experience
For travelers seeking a more premium stay, the Barceló Lanzarote Royal Level acts as a “hotel within a hotel.” This exclusive area provides upgraded accommodations with superior amenities, such as rainfall showerheads and private terraces with sea views.
Royal Level guests enjoy private check-in, access to a secluded pool area, and a VIP lounge offering complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the day. Additionally, the Royal Level features its own dedicated restaurant, ensuring a quieter and more personalized dining experience compared to the main buffet areas.
Diverse Culinary and Dining Spaces
Gastronomy at the resort is spread across five distinct restaurants and several bars. The main buffet restaurants offer nightly themed dinners, while the specialized KOI Restaurant serves an Asian fusion menu featuring sushi islands and live cooking stations on the La Plaza terrace.
- Buffet Dining: Focuses on local Canarian flavors and international staples with vegan and gluten-free options.
- La Piazza: An Italian-inspired space perfect for families wanting a casual à la carte meal.
- Champs Sports Bar: The go-to spot for watching live events while enjoying a craft beer or a quick snack.
- Poolside Bars: Two bars located by the swimming areas provide refreshing cocktails and light bites throughout the day.
Family-Friendly Amenities and Clubs
While sports are a major focus, the resort is highly rated for families due to the Barcy Club. This supervised program offers entertainment for children, including themed activities, a mini-disco, and “Born to Move” fitness classes designed specifically for younger guests.
Accommodation options for families include spacious Family Suites that can house up to five or six guests. These rooms often feature separate sitting areas and bunk beds, ensuring comfort for parents and children while keeping them close to the resort’s playground and kids’ pools.
Accommodation Types and Room Features
The 814 rooms were renovated in 2022 to reflect a modern, minimalist aesthetic inspired by the island’s volcanic landscape. Standard options include Double Rooms (30–36 sqm) with pool or sea views, while athletes may opt for specialized Deluxe Hypoxia Rooms designed to simulate high-altitude conditions.
Every room is equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a mini-fridge, and eco-friendly toiletries. The high-quality bedding and rainfall showerheads are standard across all categories, ensuring that recovery is as much a priority as the training itself.
Practical Information and Planning
To ensure a smooth trip to the Barcelo Lanzarote Active Resort, keep these logistical details in mind:
- Check-in/Check-out: Check-in begins at 15:00, and check-out is required by 12:00.
- Pricing: Average nightly rates typically range from $130 to $250, depending on the season and room type.
- Transport: The resort is a 20-minute drive (12.5 km) from Lanzarote Airport (ACE). A shuttle service is available upon request for an extra charge.
- Parking: On-site parking is available for guests, including spaces with EV charging stations.
- Accessibility: The entire resort is wheelchair accessible, with specific adapted rooms available for those with reduced mobility.
Seasonal and Training Considerations
Lanzarote is known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” making it a year-round destination. However, the months of March to May are particularly popular for triathletes preparing for summer competitions, as the weather is mild and the winds are manageable.
For leisure travelers, December and January often offer the best value for money, with prices dropping as low as $95 per night. Regardless of the season, it is recommended to book the Olympic pool lanes and personal training sessions at least 24 hours in advance through the resort’s app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Olympic pool heated?
Yes, the 10-lane Olympic pool is heated to 26°C year-round, making it suitable for professional training even in winter.
How far is the resort from the airport?
The resort is approximately 12.5 km from Lanzarote Airport (ACE), which is about a 16-to-20-minute drive by car or taxi.
Can I rent a professional road bike at the hotel?
Yes, the on-site Cycling Center offers professional bike rentals, including road and mountain bikes, along with a repair workshop and secure storage.
What is the difference between the Active Resort and the Royal Level?
The Royal Level is a premium, more exclusive section within the resort offering private pools, a VIP lounge, and upgraded room amenities compared to the standard Active Resort.
Are there vegetarian and vegan dining options?
Yes, all five restaurants, including the main buffet and KOI, offer a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes.
Does the resort have direct beach access?
The resort is located on the beachfront and provides direct access to El Ancla Cove, a rocky bay ideal for snorkeling.
Is there a kids’ club?
Yes, the Barcy Club offers supervised activities and entertainment for children, including a mini-disco and specialized fitness classes.
How much does a personal trainer cost?
Personal training sessions can be booked at the gym for approximately €30 per person, subject to availability.
What is the Les Mills program?
It is a world-class fitness system integrated into the resort’s gym, offering over 450 scientifically-backed workouts and live classes.
Final Thoughts
The Barcelo Lanzarote Active Resort has successfully redefined the traditional “sun and sea” holiday by placing wellness and athletic performance at the core of the guest experience. By integrating professional-grade infrastructure—such as the 10-lane Olympic pool and the specialized cycling center—with the comfort of a four-star beachfront resort, it caters to a diverse demographic that ranges from elite triathletes to active families. This balance ensures that while one guest is smashing a personal best in a Les Mills session, another can enjoy the tranquility of the Royal Level or the family-oriented fun of the Barcy Club.
As Lanzarote continues to grow as a global hub for sports tourism, this resort remains a frontrunner due to its 2022 modernization and its strategic location in Costa Teguise. Its commitment to sustainability and “regenerative tourism” aligns with the island’s own status as a Biosphere Reserve, ensuring that guests can enjoy the volcanic landscape responsibly. Whether you are visiting for a rigorous training camp or a balanced family vacation, the Barcelo Lanzarote Active Resort provides the tools, the environment, and the Mediterranean hospitality to make every stay impactful.
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