Meet Charlie Dilworth – The Man Who Has Visited Lanzarote More Than 135 Times

When most people talk about returning to Lanzarote, they might mean every couple of years. Charlie Dilworth, from Glasgow, has taken repeat visits to another level.

Since first discovering the island in 2012, Charlie estimates he has visited Lanzarote at least 135 times. He averages eight or nine trips every year, with an incredible 17 visits in 2017 alone.

Working permanent night shifts in Scotland means that every six weeks he enjoys a block of six days off. Rather than looking for somewhere new, there’s only one destination that ever seems to appear in his search bar.

We caught up with Charlie to find out why Lanzarote has become such an important part of his life.

1. Hi Charlie, It must be hard to keep a count but roughly how many times have you visited Lanzarote?

“At least 135 times, although that’s probably a conservative estimate because I didn’t count my first couple of years and the pandemic made things difficult to keep track of.

On average I visit eight or nine times a year, and my record was 17 trips during 2017.”

2. Can you remember your first trip?

“My first visit was during Carnival in 2012. My dad had already been coming to Lanzarote for a few years and couldn’t stop talking about how much he loved it.

I came over to see what all the fuss was about… and I fell in love with the island straight away.”

3. What is it about Lanzarote that keeps bringing you back?

“It’s my happy place.

I work constant night shifts, so every six weeks I get six days off together, which is perfect for a four or five-day escape.

Every time I think about booking somewhere different, I somehow end up typing ‘Lanzarote’ into the search box instead.”

4. What makes Lanzarote different from other holiday destinations?

“For me, it’s the atmosphere.

It never feels overly crowded, there aren’t many stag or hen parties, and there’s just something about the overall feel of the island that makes it special. It’s difficult to explain unless you’ve experienced it.”

5. Describe your perfect Lanzarote day.

“My perfect day is spending time with friends during the day, then enjoying a relaxed evening visiting the karaoke bars and catching up with more friends who either live on the island or happen to be visiting at the same time.”

6. Where do you usually stay?

“I’m definitely an apartment person. Hotels just aren’t for me—I always feel a bit claustrophobic.

Costa Volcán is my favourite because it’s perfectly located between the Old Town and the Strip. Every now and then I’ll treat myself to a villa, but apartments are my first choice.”

7. Do you hire a car?

“No, I never drive.

The buses in Lanzarote are brilliant and connect all three main resorts as well as Arrecife. My friends who live on the island are always happy to take me further afield, and I’ve also done most of the organised excursions over the years.”

8. Which places do you always return to?

“My all-time favourite is O’Brien’s, although it’s now part of Murphy’s. Those of us who were regulars still like to claim our little corner whenever we all meet up.

I also love Bluebells Bar, Brendan Behan’s and, of course, Nelly’s. They’re full of great people—locals, entertainers and tourists alike.

If I had to pick my favourite spot on the island, it would be the Secret Garden, a few coves beyond Playa Quemada. It’s a lovely little hike to get there, and it’s one of Lanzarote’s hidden gems.”

9. Has the way you holiday changed over the years?

“Not really. I’ve settled into a routine that I love.

I spend my days catching up with friends, then enjoy my evenings in the karaoke bars with people I’ve met over the years. That’s become my perfect Lanzarote holiday.”

10. What’s the one thing first-time visitors shouldn’t miss?

“I always tell people to check whether Carnival is on when they’re booking. It’s an incredible experience.

If they can’t make Carnival, then St Patrick’s Day is another brilliant time to visit. Any of the island’s big events are worth experiencing, but Carnival is definitely number one.”

And finally Charlie, give us three words to describe Lanzarote

My Happy Place.

For Charlie, Lanzarote has become much more than somewhere to escape the Scottish weather.

It’s where friendships have been built, routines have been formed, and memories continue to grow with every visit. While many travellers spend their time searching for the next destination, Charlie has already found his.

After more than 135 visits, one thing is certain—Lanzarote isn’t just his favourite holiday destination.

It’s his happy place.