Cèsar Manriques House and Attractions Tour

Cèsar Manrique House and Attractions Tour

Explore the wonders of Cesar Manrique's house and attractions that will truly amaze you! Renowned in Lanzarote, his legacy as one of Spain's finest artists is evident in his masterpieces across the island, such as César Manriques House, James del Agua and Mirador del Rio. Cesar Manrique shaped the island's landscape as it stands today, and his influence continues to thrive. They've even honored him by naming the airport after him.

For the ultimate César Manrique experience, join this amazing tour, showcasing the artist's house and finest works. Explore subterranean lava tunnels, gardens, and the spectacular views from Mirador Del Rio. Discover all this and more on the Cèsar Manrique House and Attractions Tour.

Cesar Manrique was deeply connected to the island of Lanzarote and played a pivotal role in its development. He was not only an artist but also an architect, environmentalist, and visionary. Manrique's work focused on blending art, architecture, and nature, with the aim of preserving Lanzarote's natural beauty and cultural heritage. This tour takes you on a journey of exploration and discovering, to the highlights of his work and his Tahiche Home, now the César Manrique foundation.

Cèsar Manrique House and Attractions Tour Itinerary

Stop 1. Monumento Al Campesino

The Monumento al Campesino (Monument to the Farmer) is a significant Lanzarote landmark honouring the island's agricultural heritage. As the first stop on the Cèsar Manrique House and Attractions Tour , it stands as a tribute to the hard work and dedication of Lanzarote's farmers.

The monument is located in the center of the island, near the village of Mozaga. Its striking white structure is made of traditional materials, including volcanic stone and wood, blending seamlessly with the island's landscape. Inside you will find exhibitions and information on the history of the work of Manrique and learn how his influence shaped the island into what we know and love today.

Stop 2. Haria and the Valley of 1000 palms

Haria is a charming town nestled in the northern part of Lanzarote. Its traditional whitewashed houses and narrow streets create a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere. The town is surrounded by fertile fields and palm groves, making it an oasis of greenery in the arid volcanic terrain.

The Valley of a Thousand Palms ((Haria y el Valle de las Mil Palmeras) is not only a sight to behold, but an important agricultural area on the island thanks to the fertile soil and favourable climate. Here you'll find various crops, including fruits, vegetables, and of course, palm trees. The legend behind the valley's name comes from a tale that whenever a girl was born in Haría, a new palm tree grew.

Haria and the Valley of a Thousand Palms is a must visit Lanzarote spectacle for travellers seeking beauty, culture, and relaxation.

Stop 3. Stop off for lunch

The third stop on the Cèsar Manrique House and Attractions Tour is an opportunity to grab a bite to eat. You have the option to enjoy a buffet for €8 per person, payable on the day of your tour of Cesar Manrique's house and attractions. If you prefer, take your own packed lunch and take a breather before you continue exploring the legacy of Manrique.

Stop 4. The amazing views of Mirador del Rio

The fourth stop on the César Manrique House and Attractions tour takes you to one of the most iconic and breathtaking attractions in Lanzarote. Perched on a cliff at an elevation of about 475 meters (1,558 feet) above sea level, it offers stunning panoramic views of the neighbouring island of La Graciosa, as well as the surrounding Atlantic Ocean and volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote.

This architectural marvel was designed by Cesar Manrique, in the 1970s. Manrique ingeniously integrated the viewpoint into the natural surroundings, blending it seamlessly with the volcanic rock and landscape. The viewpoint itself is almost invisible from a distance, cleverly hidden within the cliff.

Mirador del Rio offers guests large panoramic windows that frame the stunning views over La Graciosa and the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park. The interior features a spacious viewing area, a café, and a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase locally made crafts and gifts.

Stop 5. Green Caves Lanzarote or Jameos Del Agua

The fifth stop on the Cèsar Manrique House and Attractions Tour gives you the choice to visit The Green Caves or Jameos del Agua These attractions are literally across the road from each other. .

The Green Caves (Cuevas de los Verdes) are part of a larger volcanic tunnel system formed by the eruption of the nearby La Corona volcano. What makes the Green Caves particularly unique is their striking beauty and the way light interacts with their interior, creating mesmerising shades of green on the walls. The green hues are caused by minerals in the volcanic rock reacting to the light, giving the caves an otherworldly atmosphere. But, this isn't how the caves got their name. They were once used by the Greens who were a family of goat herders who used to shelter in the cave with their animals.

These caves have a fascinating history, serving as a refuge for the island's inhabitants during times of pirate attacks and volcanic eruptions. In fact, the local population used these caves to hide from pirates during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Just across the road you will find Jameos del Agua. A lava tunnel formed by the eruption of the La Corona volcano. The name "Jameo" refers to a collapsed section of a lava tube, creating an opening into the cave system. Cesar Manrique transformed these natural formations into a stunning cultural and recreational complex.

The Manrique inspired landmark features beautifully illuminated underground caverns, natural pools, and gardens, all integrated with artistic touches. One of the highlights is the Jameo Grande, a large cave converted into an auditorium and a stunning turquoise pool inhabited by a unique species of blind albino crabs, known as "Jameitos." These crabs are found only in Lanzarote and are considered a symbol of the island.

Stop 6. Cactus Gardens

"Jardín de Cactus" is a stunning botanical garden designed by the renowned artist Cesar Manrique, this garden is dedicated to showcasing the beauty and diversity of cacti from around the world.

Built within an old crater quarry, the attraction provides a unique setting for the thousands of cacti species that inhabit the space. Cesar Manrique's design integrates the natural volcanic landscape with terraced levels, pathways, and stone walls, creating a harmonious environment for the cacti to thrive.

The garden is home to 1,400 different species of cacti, ranging from small, delicate specimens to towering giants and is divided into various areas, each representing different regions of the world where cacti are found. You can find cacti from the Americas, Africa, and other arid regions, displaying a wide array of shapes, sizes, and colors.

Stop 7. Cesar Manriques House (The César Manrique foundation)

Following the tragic loss of Manrique, The Cesar Manrique Foundation was established in 1992 to preserve his legacy and promote his ideals. The foundation is housed in Cesar Manrique's House and former residence, which he designed and built on top of volcanic bubbles in the 1960s.

Today, Cesar Manrique's House showcases his unique style and artistic vision. It's a masterpiece of integration with the natural surroundings, featuring volcanic bubbles incorporated into the living spaces, as well as striking architectural elements such as white walls, domed ceilings, and large windows framing views of the landscape.

In addition to the house, the foundation includes several exhibition spaces displaying Manrique's artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and sketches reflecting Manrique's love for Lanzarote and his concern for its environment and culture.

One of the highlights of Cesar Manriques House is the outdoor garden, which features several of the artists sculptures and installations, as well as lush vegetation typical of the Canary Islands. Visitors can stroll through the garden and admire the harmonious blend of art and nature.

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