Fifty is the new forty they say, and life certainly begins at fifty when you take a look at what Sun Park Living (SPL), has to offer. This beautiful senior living village, located in the town of Playa Blanca, in sunny Lanzarote, is a British-owned long-stay holiday complex that caters specifically for active over 50s looking for independent living - so-called 'Sun Rockers'.

Neither a standard holiday resort or retirement village, SPL has 220 fully-furnished retirement apartments, which residents are encouraged to consider as home, perhaps by redecorating or adding their own furniture. This active retirement complex also has a host of other facilities, including a restaurant, cafe, British deli and mini-market, bar, launderette, and gift shop to see next to gardens and a swimming pool, making this one of the best retirement communities to be found. You can keep fit and active with a range of sports, and the outdoor gym. You can also stay mentally active by using the art studio or taking a U3A course, and there are many other community-led activities, including opportunities for charity work and volunteering, making this one of the most active adult communities.

For those who also like to explore outside gated retirement communities, the old town and harbour are within easy walking distance, and the town also has beaches, restaurants, bars, and nightlife to see next to amenities such as banks and a post office.

You may feel that retirement centers are not an affordable option, but SPL is one of the new retirement communities; rather than offering retirement homes for sale, SPL offers retirement housing on long-term rental, ranging from one month to five years. Costs start from as low as £499 per month for an apartment (maximum two people), and that price includes: utility bills, service charge, council tax, ground rent, wi-fi, satellite TV/radio and community living club. Laundry and housekeeping are optional, at extra charge. With living costs in the UK estimated at around £1496, it's possible to live in this senior community much more cheaply than in the UK, especially when you take into account the rising costs of energy during a cold, wet winter. Unlike a time-share, there are no contracts to tie you in, mortgages to obtain, or issues such as maintenance to worry about. Monthly and yearly rates are available, and a trial period is also offered.

With the added benefit of Lanzarote's climate, offering year-round sunshine and a minimum temperature of 20 degrees, this Sunrise senior living complex could be your ideal retirement solution.