Luxury Villas Lanzarote
Map of Lanzarote and Places of Interest
1. Mirador del Rio
The Mirador del Rio provides spectacular views of the Chinijo Archipelago, which consists of La Graciosa, Montana Clara and Alegranza as well as the islets of Roque del Este and Roque del Oeste. The early inhabitants of the island used this site as a Lookout point as Lanzarote was often attacked by pirates. In 1898 the 'Bateria del Rio' was built as an Artillery base where the Canons now resting at the Castillo de San Gabriel once resided. In 1973 Cesar Manrique turned the Bateria del Rio into a restaurant and Tourist Centre.
2. Cuevas de los Verdes
The Cueva de los Verdes or Green Caves is part of the Atlantida underground Cave system formed some 3000 years ago during the eruptions of Monte Corona. The original inhabitants, the Guanches, used to shelter here from Pirates that once tormented the island. The tunnel is over 6 km long with an additional 1.6 km under the sea and is the longest Volcanic Tunnel in the World (the underwater section has not been fully explored), although only about 2 km are open to the public. The cave measures more than 15 m wide and 15 m high.
3. Jameos del Agua
Jameos Del Agua, located in the north of Lanzarote, is part of the Atlantida volcanic cave system formed by the eruptions of the Corona volcano about three to four thousand years ago. This larger cave system with it's centre in Haria also includes the Cuevas de los Verdes. The word 'Jameo' refers to a volcanic cave with a collapsed roof, of which there are many in this part of Lanzarote. Cesar Manrique has helped to create this spectacle, where these natural 'jameos' have been turned into an Auditorium, Swimming pool, Gardens and Restaurants, while still blending into the surrounding volcanic landscape. The natural Auditorium has seating for 600 and is renowned for its excellent acoustics. There are regular shows put on here, which include Folklore Music (the traditional music of the Canary Islands), AudioVisual displays and a Disco on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
4. César Manrique Foundation
The unique appeal of Lanzarote can be attributed very much to artist César Manrique who's impact has endured. To really understand the driving forces behind the island's modern development, we recommend the Foundation as your first stop. Once the artist's home, it is now a showcase for his life, art and thinking. The Foundation is just outside Tahiche, only 15 minutes from Costa Teguise.
5. Jardin de Cactus
El Jardin del Cactus was designed by César Manrique. This impressive collection of Cacti, which were selected by the Botanist Estanislao Gonzales Ferrer, features well over 1000 species of Cactus. The restored windmill and strange metal sculptures make for an impressive contrast against the dry volcanic landscape. Opening Hours: 10.00 - 18.00, admission: €3.
6. Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art is located in the Castle of San José, a fortress built between 1776 and 1779 by King Carlos III. César Manrique, its honorary director, was aware of the importance of this building and wanted to preserve it as a lasting reminder of the past, but convert its interiors into a Museum of Modern Art. Several of his paintings and some artworks from his own private collection were donated to this end.
7. Emigrants Museum
Strategically situated at the top of Mount Guanapay next to the village of Teguise, the Castiio de Santa Barbara was originally built in the 16th century as a fortress to defend the ancient capital of the island. It was restored in 1989 to house the Emigrants' Museum. The museum is devoted to various documents and archives connected with the native population's large-scale emigration to America in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Amongst the documents on display are; letters, pass embarkation papers, photographs maps and much more.
8. Timanfaya National Park
A visit to the volcanoes of 'Fire Mountain' are an absolute must to anyone visiting Lanzarote. The area was declared a national park (Parque Nacional de Timanfaya) in 1968 and today remains a truly spectacular excursion for all visitors. Camels are at the ready to take you up the 512' high trek where you can view the amazing volcanic landscape. The El Diablo restaurant is situated at the very top. Most of the grilled specialities, both fish and meat are cooked in the 140°C heat that comes from the volcano itself.
9. El Golfo
El Golfo is a crater which is the result of the dramatic events of Timanfaya combined with the effects of the Atlantic. Over time the ocean has eaten into the volcano leaving a emerald-green lagoon which produces a magnificent array of colours depending on the position of the sun. Close to the crater is the fishing village of the same name with many enticing fish restaurants to choose from.
