Arrecife

Arrecife

Lanzarote is perhaps the most unique among the Canary Islands, astounding visitors with its amazing landscapes. Due to a massive volcanic eruption in 1730 that lasted for six years, one third of the island was covered by a sea of lava. In 1824, a new volcano thrust out of the earth's crust and once again molten lava poured over a good part of Lanzarote, leaving a lunar landscape of more than a hundred craters, lava fields, and layers of cinders and pebbles. Dromedaries found here add to this bizarre scenery. Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, is situated on the island's eastern coast. Blackened lava and yellow sands provide a dramatic backdrop. Home to the archipelago's largest fishing fleet, the harbor is packed with boats. While Arrecife itself has little to offer beyond a modern art museum, it provides an excellent starting point for exploration into the fascinating interior. Especially a trip to the Fire Mountains should not be missed.

Attractions

It is impossible to mention Lanzarote without mentioning at the same time the island’s most famous son, Cesar Manrique. As an artist and architect, he sought to construct buildings as extended natural forms. He began to paint abstract canvases, which made their way to the Guggenheim Museum in New York. Some of his masterworks on Lanzarote include the Cactus Garden and Los Jameos del Agua, where within the grotto’s lava formations Manrique incorporated a concert cave, a restaurant and a bar. His home, donated to the people of Lanzarote, is now known as the Fundacion Cesar Manrique. The living room has been transformed into a gallery displaying a private collection of his works.

Activities

Guanapay Castle - The remains of this castle, built in the 16th century, stand on the edge of a volcano. From the summit, there is a vast panorama including Teguise, Lanzarote's former capital, and Graciosa Island on the northern horizon.

Shopping

Local embroideries, baskets and native Guanche pottery make nice souvenirs. Since the Canary Islands enjoy free port status, prices for cigarettes and electronics are quite reasonable. The main shopping area is around the Arrecife town center. Store hours are 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Most souvenir shops in Puerto Carmen stay open during lunch time.

Food

Canary cuisine is simple but flavorful. Fish of a great variety is excellent, whether broiled, grilled or served in tasty sauces. Local dishes also include pork prepared in a special pickling process (carne de fiesta) and a rabbit dish called salmorejo. Potatoes grown locally are known as papas negras. They are small and dark, with a yellowish inside and extraordinary flavor. Good local cheese is made of goats’ milk. You may want to try the local wine.

Currency

The Euro (€), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of the Arrecife.

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