Just when you think the carnival celebrations are over on Lanzarote and the streets of Arrecife have returned to normality, then things kick off again in another resort.

Just 8 miles further south along the coast is Lanzarote's oldest resort Puerte del Carmen, formerly a small fishing village but now a well established holiday centre and situated in the centre of several miles of golden sandy beaches. Hotels and villas in the resort lie close to the beach and a pretty promenade runs east-west along the seafront. It is quite a lively resort all year round, but things really come to life during the short four day carnival period.

Carnival celebrations in Puerte del Carmen started on the evening of Thursday the 18th of February when there was a variety of shows and dance performances along the Avenida de Las Playas from 9pm. The big Gala evening was on the Friday, which also started at 9pm and featured open-air dance performances, live music and DJ sessions. The big street parade took place on Saturday afternoon at 5pm and travelled all along the main promenade, with festivities continuing well into the night. Finally children got their chance on Sunday, when a special event was held for them at 6pm.

Outside the carnival weekend there is always plenty to do here, with watersports on offer from the beaches, in addition to good shopping and a wide choice of bars and restaurants. If you happen to be in Puerte del Carmen on the 22nd of May this year, you'll be able to witness all the excitement that is the annual Lanzarote Ironman Triathlon.