Mother Nature's imprint isn't the only one that looms large in Lanzarote. This half-day tour takes a close look at one of the island's most famous sons. You'll visit his Jameos del Agua and Mirador del Rio viewpoint. And you'll also discover the oldest town in the Canaries, Teguise. Cristina, one of our expert guides, says, ‘Local artist Cesar Manrique was to Lanzarote what Gaudi was to Barcelona. His architectural vision and activism left us a unique style in harmony with our volcanic landscapes and also helped preserve the island – he was opposed to high-rise hotels, so very few were built.'
The discovery begins at the Manrique-designed complex built around the Jameos del Agua volcanic caves. He converted them into a nightclub in the 60s. The stage is still in use, but the stars nowadays are the rare white crabs in a saltwater pond. Next, we'll cut through dramatic volcanic landscapes to the Mirador del Rio – another Manrique masterpiece. At almost 500 metres above sea level, it offers unbeatable views over the island of La Graciosa and its volcanoes.
After calling in at an Aloe Vera producer to learn the secrets of this versatile plant, you'll pass through a string of pretty villages en route to Teguise. As the former capital of the island, this history-steeped village boasts a number of eye-catching palaces, convents, chapels and churches – all within walking distance of each other. Enjoy free time to wander around and take snaps in the town's atmospheric centre.
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