What to do in Lanzarote? A Guide to the Island’s Best Experiences
Lanzarote, the easternmost of Spain’s Canary Islands, offers a wealth of activities perfectly suited for travellers aged 40–70 seeking leisure, culture, and great dining. If you’re wondering what is there to do in Lanzarote beyond the usual beach holiday, this guide will show you the island’s calmer, more cultured side. From awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes to vineyard tours and fine local cuisine, here’s what to see in Lanzarote and how to enjoy it at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.
A Quick Guide to Lanzarote’s Best Bits
🗻 Volcanic Wonders: Explore Timanfaya National Park, home to the Fire Mountains and dramatic lava fields
🍷 Wine Country: Visit La Geria’s unique volcanic vineyards and taste award-winning Malvasía wines
🎨 Cultural Highlights: Discover César Manrique’s iconic creations like Jameos del Agua and the Cactus Garden
🍽️ Dining & Local Life: Savour fresh seafood in Arrieta or dine in volcanic cave restaurants and cliffside eateries
🎶 Easy Evenings: Catch live music in Manrique-designed venues or sip wine with ocean views in peaceful marinas
Organised Excursions: Guided Tours and Boat Trips
Timanfaya National Park
One of the best ways to explore Lanzarote’s unique landscapes is through organised excursions. Timanfaya National Park, known as the Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains), is a must-see. Its landscape is so otherworldly it’s often likened to walking on the moon (spain.info). The park’s guided coach tour (included with entry) takes you on the Ruta de los Volcanes, a 35-minute circuit winding through lava fields and craters with commentary in English, Spanish, and German (cactlanzarote.com).
You’ll witness geothermal demonstrations—vents of heat that can boil water in seconds—and even see food being cooked using the volcano’s heat at the famous El Diablo restaurant. Chefs there grill meat over a volcanic hole, where just 2 meters below the surface the temperature reaches about 400°C (atlasobscura.com)! Despite the dramatic cooking method, it’s perfectly safe – the volcano has been dormant since 1824 – and you can dine with panoramic views of Timanfaya’s red and black lava plains and the distant “Fire Mountains”.
Boat trip to La Graciosa
Another delightful excursion is a boat trip to La Graciosa, the small, tranquil island off Lanzarote’s north coast. Regular ferries depart from Órzola harbour about every half hour (turismolanzarote.com). The crossing is a comfortable 25-minute ride across the strait, usually with calm seas (lineasromero.com). On La Graciosa you can stroll the sandy streets of Caleta de Sebo village, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, or take a gentle guided tour to secluded beaches. The ferry ride itself is scenic and enjoyable for older travellers – a chance to feel the sea breeze and admire views of Lanzarote’s cliffs as you approach La Graciosa.
Submarine Safari
For a unique ocean experience, consider the Submarine Safari based in Puerto Calero. This is a real yellow submarine that takes you 30 metres (100 feet) below the Atlantic waves – no getting wet required! It’s an easy, fascinating excursion where you remain comfortably seated in an air-conditioned cabin with large portholes to view marine life (submarinesafaris.com) . During the 1-hour underwater journey, you’ll glide past mysterious shipwrecks and see an array of fish, rays, and other sea creatures in their natural habitat (submarinesafaris.com). Multilingual audio guides explain the sights, and at the end you even receive a dive certificate as a fun memento. It’s a gentle adventure perfectly suited for those who prefer to avoid strenuous activities but still want something out of the ordinary.
Catamaran cruises
If you prefer to stay above water, Lanzarote offers mellow catamaran cruises and coastal boat tours. For example, a sailing catamaran trip to the golden Papagayo beaches in the south or a sunset cruise along the Puerto del Carmen coast can be very enjoyable. Some operators provide lunch and drinks on board and will anchor for a bit so you can take a dip (or simply relax on deck with a glass of wine). These excursions are typically adult-friendly and focused on relaxation and scenery rather than loud party atmospheres. Always book with reputable, licensed operators – the island’s tourist offices can point you to official providers.
Wineries and Vineyard Tours
The La Geria valley
Lanzarote’s wine country is a highlight for culture and scenery lovers. The La Geria valley – at the edge of Timanfaya’s lava fields – is home to a volcanic vineyard landscape unique in the world. Here, local vintners grow vines in shallow pits dug into black volcanic ash, each pit lined with a semicircular stone wall to protect the vine from Lanzarote’s constant winds (hellocanaryislands.com).
Row upon row of these perfectly round hollows, with green vine leaves and tendrils spilling over the dark soil, create an almost surreal patchwork across the landscape. This innovative method allows the vines to reach moisture deep in the ground, and it’s so successful that despite Lanzarote’s arid climate the island produces excellent white and sweet wines. In fact, the island’s Malvasía wines have won international awards, and the stunning wine region helped Lanzarote earn its status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
A visit to La Geria’s wineries
A visit to La Geria’s wineries is highly recommended. Many bodegas welcome visitors for tours and tastings. One of the most popular is Bodega La Geria, an estate founded in the 19th century right in the heart of the wine district. They offer a guided tour of the vineyards and winery, explaining this unique vine-growing process, followed by a tasting of several wines. The tour is about 45 minutes and very affordable (around €12 per adult, with English tours available daily lageria.comlageria.com). Strolling among the vine pits and then sampling the finished product – perhaps a chilled Malvasía Volcánica white wine – makes for a delightful outing. There’s little walking on uneven ground required, so it’s suitable even if your mobility is limited.
El Grifo Wine Museum
Another must-see is the El Grifo Wine Museum, located at the island’s oldest winery (El Grifo, founded in 1775). This bodega, still family-run, is actually one of the ten oldest wineries in all of Spain (https://elgrifo.com/en). The museum is set in the historic whitewashed cellars, with thick volcanic stone walls and high ceilings made from old ship timbers. Inside, you’ll find an array of winemaking artefacts spanning over 250 years – from the original 1775 wine press to antique tools and machinery illustrating how wine was made in Lanzarote’s challenging conditions.
A walk through these exhibits is a walk through history. Of course, the visit concludes with a tasting; El Grifo produces lovely Malvasía wines, among others. You can either explore the museum on your own or join a short guided tour with tasting (typically a couple of wines for around €9–€10). It’s a relaxed, informative experience – and there’s a charming wine bar in the garden if you’d like to sit and sip a bit more.
Bodegas Rubicón, Winery Bermejos, Finca Testeina
Several other wineries dot the La Geria region (such as Bodega Rubicón, Bodega Los Bermejos, Bodega Stratvs, Finca Testeina etc.), and most have their doors open for drop-in tastings. Driving yourself along the wine route is an option – the roads are good – but if you’d rather not drive, look for a half-day wine tour excursion. Just be sure any tour you choose is with a reputable company or official guide. Many will include pickup from your accommodation and visits to two or three bodegas, so you can enjoy the wines without worry.
César Manrique’s Legacy: Art, Architecture and Attractions
No cultural exploration of Lanzarote would be complete without discovering the legacy of César Manrique, the island’s beloved artist-architect. Manrique (1919–1992) was a Lanzarote native who returned to the island in the 1960s and devoted himself to creating artful projects that celebrate and preserve Lanzarote’s natural beauty. Thanks to his vision, Lanzarote has some truly unique attractions where art and nature blend seamlessly – ideal for visitors who appreciate culture and design.
The Jardín de Cactus (Cactus Garden)
One of Manrique’s most iconic sites is the Jardín de Cactus (Cactus Garden) in the village of Guatiza. This impressively landscaped botanical garden was actually Manrique’s last project, opened in 1990, and it’s a testament to his genius. He took an old disused lava rock quarry and transformed it into an amphitheatre-like garden showcasing 4,500 specimens of cactus and succulents from the Canary Islands and far beyond (en.wikipedia.org).
As you wander the easy paths and terraces, you’ll spot cacti of every shape – from towering spiny columns to tiny globes – all artfully arranged among volcanic stone sculptures and a backdrop of sedimentary cliffs. A restored traditional windmill stands at the top of the garden, offering a great photo op against the backdrop of cacti and blue sky(hellocanaryislands.com). Despite being a “garden”, this site is far from strenuous; there are plenty of benches and even a café where you can relax with a drink overlooking the greenery. The Jardín de Cactus is also wonderfully integrated into the landscape – from outside, you mostly just see Manrique’s whimsical giant cactus sculpture (which marks the entrance) and the white windmill. It’s a tranquil, scenic spot that often ends up being a surprise favourite for visitors.
Cueva de los Verdes
A short drive from the Cactus Garden is Cueva de los Verdes, a fascinating volcanic cave system. While not designed by Manrique (the cave lighting was arranged by Jesús Soto, a collaborator of his), it is often paired with Manrique’s Jameos del Agua (they are parts of the same lava tunnel). Visiting Cueva de los Verdes is like stepping into another world: you enter an ancient lava tube formed ~5000 years ago by the Corona Volcano. A guided walk (~45-50 minutes) leads you through illuminated caverns and tunnels, past dripping rock formations and an underground auditorium.
The cave’s name “Verdes” actually comes from a historic local family, not the colour – inside, you’ll see hues of gold, orange, and black in the rocks. Centuries ago, locals used these caves as a refuge from pirates that raided Lanzarote, and as you venture through the shadows you can imagine why it was a good hiding spot (hellocanaryislands.com). The tour is not physically demanding (the path is well-formed, though there are some steps and narrow sections), and the guides will reveal a special “secret” of the cave that almost always leaves visitors astonished (we won’t spoil it here!). It’s a cool, comfortable temperature underground – a nice break from afternoon heat – and an eye-opening geological wonder. Tours depart every 20 minutes or so, in small groups, in multiple languages.
Jameos del Agua
Nearby is Manrique’s Jameos del Agua, which is arguably one of his greatest masterpieces. Los Jameos is actually another section of that same lava tunnel, but here Manrique created an extraordinary leisure and culture space in harmony with the cave. You descend a stone stairway into an open-air cave collapsed roof (a “jameo” is a volcanic cave skylight), filled with a crystal-clear natural pool. In this sunlit pool lives a species of tiny blind albino crabs, unique to Lanzarote, dotting the water like white coins.
Around this, Manrique designed walkways, tropical planting, and even a restaurant and bar tucked into the lava walls, all perfectly blending into the volcanic setting. Further along, another jameo contains a stunning underground concert auditorium – the acoustics are phenomenal – and the Casa de los Volcanes, a small interactive museum about volcanology
Visiting Jameos del Agua is a treat for the senses: by day it’s serene and dreamlike, and some evenings they host folk music or jazz concerts inside the cave. It’s a gentle visit (minimal walking), and there’s an on-site café where you can sit by the cave lake with a coffee or glass of wine. Jameos and Cueva de los Verdes are often visited together, and both are accessible via guided coach tours if you prefer not to drive – just ensure any tour is through official channels to guarantee quality.
Mirador del Río
For panoramic views, head north to the Mirador del Río, a viewpoint built high on the Famara clifftop. César Manrique sculpted this lookout point right into the cliff face at 474 metres altitude (turismolanzarote.com). From the outside you hardly notice the structure (it’s camouflaged in stone), but inside it reveals a stylish café and viewing gallery with floor-to-ceiling windows opening to an astonishing vista. You’ll gaze down at the cobalt-blue sea and the outline of La Graciosa island just across “El Río” strait – one of Lanzarote’s most spectacular panoramic views. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and the view in a relaxed atmosphere.
If you prefer an open-air experience, just outside the Mirador there are viewing platforms where you can feel the breeze and snap photos of the archipelago and the dramatic cliffs. It’s easily reachable by car (or tour bus), and there is an elevator inside for those who can’t manage the few stairs to the very top. The Mirador also has telescopes and information displays about the geology and the Chinijo Islands you’re looking at. Time your visit on a clear day for the best colours – in summer months, late afternoon is recommended to avoid any morning haze and the busiest coach tour times.
César Manrique’s Legacy: Art, Architecture and Attractions
No cultural exploration of Lanzarote would be complete without discovering the legacy of César Manrique, the island’s beloved artist-architect. Manrique (1919–1992) was a Lanzarote native who returned to the island in the 1960s and devoted himself to creating artful projects that celebrate and preserve Lanzarote’s natural beauty. Thanks to his vision, Lanzarote has some truly unique attractions where art and nature blend seamlessly – ideal for visitors who appreciate culture and design.
Monumento al Campesino and the César Manrique Foundation.
The Monumento al Campesino, located in the island’s center (Mozaga), is Manrique’s tribute to Lanzarote’s rural farmers. It’s an abstract sculpture of piled white blocks (made from old water tanks!) symbolizing the hard work and creativity it took to farm this arid land (firstminute-transfer.com). Next to it, a traditional farmhouse has been converted into the Casa-Museo del Campesino, a museum showcasing farming life, handicrafts, and architecture. It’s free to enter and wander through courtyards and exhibits of tools, pottery, and farming techniques. The highlight for many is the underground restaurant here, set in a volcanic lava cave! This Casa-Museo del Campesino Restaurant serves local Canarian dishes in a wonderfully atmospheric cavern dining room. It’s a great lunch stop when touring the island – you can try classics like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce), goat stew, or fresh octopus, accompanied by Lanzarote wine. The setting really makes it special, and prices are moderate. Even if you don’t dine, the site is worth a look to appreciate Manrique’s homage to Lanzarote’s heritage (and perhaps pick up a souvenir from the craft shop).
Finally, art lovers should visit the César Manrique Foundation in Tahíche, which is actually Manrique’s former home and studio, now a museum and art gallery. Often just called “Manrique’s House”, this remarkable building is partly built into five volcanic lava bubbles! Manrique designed his home here in the late 1960s, converting natural lava caves into stylish living spaces. You’ll see his eclectic decor blending 1960s mod furniture with volcanic stone walls, vibrant artworks, and openings that frame the lava landscape outside. The upper level (built above ground in traditional island style) houses an exhibition of Manrique’s paintings and personal collections, as well as poignant photos of the artist. Visiting this house-museum gives a real insight into Manrique’s creative mind and his commitment to harmonizing architecture with nature. It’s mostly step-free inside (except an upstairs gallery), and not a huge place – you might spend an hour here. The foundation also often features contemporary art exhibits. If you’re a fan of architecture or art, it’s inspiring and conveniently located near Arrecife. They also have a small café and gift shop. Note that there’s a second Manrique house in the village of Haría (his later home, where he spent his final years), which is also open as a museum – a charming farmhouse setting different from Tahíche’s lava cave house. You can even get a discounted joint ticket if you plan to see both sites (fcmanrique.org).
Dining in Lanzarote: Culture on a Plate
After days of exploring, a big part of what to do in Lanzarote is indulging in its food and drink. The island’s dining scene offers everything from rustic local eateries to upscale restaurants – but always with a relaxed vibe and often a gorgeous setting. Here are a few recommendations tailored to discerning travellers (with official websites for more info):
El Diablo Restaurant (Timanfaya National Park)
This is the famous “volcano grill” restaurant we mentioned earlier, designed by César Manrique. It’s not just a gimmick; the food (grilled chicken, steaks, local fish, and Canarian potatoes) is tasty, and the views over the lava landscape are unbeatable. Dining here is a unique gastronomic experience, using geothermal heat to cook your meal. It’s open for lunch during park hours. (Official site: part of the CACT Lanzarote attractions)
Restaurante Casa-Museo del Campesino
Located at the Monumento al Campesino in Mozaga, this underground restaurant offers an authentic taste of Canarian cuisine in a truly atmospheric setting. The dining hall is built into a lava bubble cave keeping it naturally cool. Here you can savor traditional dishes like sancocho (salted fish stew) or grilled octopus with green mojo sauce, all made from local ingredients, and sample island wines. According to the official tourism board, each dish is inspired by heritage recipes and served in a setting steeped in local culture. It’s open daily for lunch (roughly 12:00–16:00). (Official site: CACT Lanzarote – Casa Museo del Campesino)
LagOmar Restaurant (Nazaret)
Dine in a cave once rumored to belong to actor Omar Sharif! LagOmar is a breathtaking house-museum complex built into a cliff of an old quarry, with caves, tunnels and a lake – often called the “James Bond villain hideout” of Lanzarote for its dramatic design. By day you can visit the museum, but by night the cave complex transforms into a stylish restaurant and bar. The Restaurante Lagomar offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience with avant-garde cuisine highlighting local products lagomarlanzarote.com. You might enjoy modern takes on Canarian dishes or international favorites, artfully plated. The ambiance – dining under candlelight amid volcanic stone walls and exotic gardens – is truly special. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic or celebratory dinner. (Official site: lagomarlanzarote.com)
Lanzarote Seafood Villages
If you love fresh fish, make sure to visit coastal villages like El Golfo (on the west coast) or Arrieta (northeast). These little villages are famed for their local eateries right by the sea. In El Golfo, several simple restaurants line the shore overlooking a green lagoon and black sand beach – an amazing spot to watch the sunset with a plate of grilled fish and papas arrugadas. In Arrieta, try a local “sociedad” (community restaurant) or the popular Restaurante Amanecer (family-run, known for fresh catches of the day). Such places may not have fancy websites or Michelin stars, but they offer the kind of authentic, moderately priced dining experience seasoned travellers cherish. Expect the day’s catch simply grilled with olive oil, garlic and lemon, served with salad and washed down with a cold beer or local white wine. It’s unpretentious, hearty, and delicious. (Tip: go for lunch after a excursion to the Jameos del Agua or Cueva de los Verdes, as Arrieta is nearby.)
Arrecife and Marina Dining
Lanzarote’s capital, Arrecife, and the upscale Marina Rubicón in Playa Blanca both host a number of fine restaurants where you can enjoy international and Canarian cuisine in a more urban setting. For example, Lilium in Arrecife is an acclaimed restaurant (run by a young local chef) offering creative Canary Island cuisine – it’s right by the Charco de San Ginés lagoon and perfect for a leisurely dinner in town. Over in Marina Rubicón, you’ll find several waterfront bistros ideal for an evening meal after strolling the marina. These locales cater to adults (no rowdy nightlife here, just good food and ambiance) and often have English-speaking staff and menus, given their popularity with visitors and resident expats.
Lastly, don’t forget to sample the local wines and cheeses during your stay. Lanzarote’s goat cheeses – often served as a quick starter in restaurants, perhaps drizzled with palm honey – are superb. And a glass of chilled Malvasía wine at sunset is practically a rite of passage. Many restaurants stock local vintages, so you can continue your wine appreciation over dinner.
Practical Tips – A Guide for UK Travellers Over 50
Getting Around: Lanzarote’s roads are well-maintained and driving is relatively easy, which makes renting a car a convenient option for travellers who prefer to explore independently. It allows you to set your own pace – whether that’s a slow scenic drive through wine country or hopping between cultural sites. However, if you’d rather not drive, there are plenty of guided coach tours (e.g. full-day “Best of Lanzarote” tours) that cover the main attractions in comfort. Local buses connect major towns, but to reach many of the sights mentioned, an excursion or car is best.
When to Visit Sites: Lanzarote enjoys mild weather year-round. Still, it’s wise for older travellers to avoid midday heat when possible, especially in summer. Plan outdoor activities like Timanfaya or walking tours in the morning or late afternoon. The major visitor sites (Timanfaya, Jameos, Cactus Garden, etc.) tend to be quieter either early (right at opening) or later in the day before closing. Many coach tours hit Timanfaya around 11am–1pm, so going earlier or later can mean fewer crowds and less waiting. Similarly, try popular restaurants at slightly off-peak times – e.g. lunch at 1pm rather than 2pm – for a more relaxed experience.
Accessibility: Most of the attractions and tours mentioned are quite accessible. Timanfaya’s tour is by bus (minimal walking). The caves (Jameos and Cueva de los Verdes) have steps, so while not wheelchair-accessible, they are doable for anyone who can handle some stairs and uneven ground at a gentle pace. The Manrique sites often have ramps or elevators (Mirador del Río has both stairs and lift). If mobility is a concern, inquire at Tourist Information; Lanzarote is used to accommodating visitors of all ages and abilities. Also, bring sturdy comfortable shoes for walking on volcanic terrain – the ground can be gravelly in places like Timanfaya or La Geria.
Moderate Prices: One of the perks of Lanzarote is that it’s generally good value. The Centres of Art, Culture and Tourism (CACT) attractions run by the island (Timanfaya, Jameos, Cactus Garden, Mirador, etc.) have reasonable entry fees (around €10 or less for seniors; some sites are even free). There’s a discounted multi-attraction ticket if you plan to see several CACT sites. Guided excursions vary in price, but many full-day tours (including a nice lunch) cost around €50–€60 per person – a comfortable way to cover a lot in one day without breaking the bank. Dining, too, can be as affordable or upscale as you choose. You can have a lovely fish lunch in a local haunt for under €20, or splurge on a gourmet dinner for two with wine for perhaps €80–€100. Tipping in restaurants is welcomed but not obligatory – about 10% for good service is a kind gesture.
Cultural Etiquette: The local people are warm and used to visitors. English is widely spoken in tourist areas (and menus often in multiple languages), but attempting a few Spanish phrases – “hola” (hello), “gracias” (thank you) – is always appreciated. The pace of life is laid-back. Don’t be surprised if dinner service is leisurely – it’s meant to be enjoyed, not rushed. If you have dietary preferences or needs, most restaurants will accommodate; many menus indicate vegetarian options, etc. For any excursions, it’s a good idea to carry a bottle of water, a hat, and sunscreen – the sun can be strong even when the temperature feels comfortable due to the breeze.
Lanzarote truly has something for everyone. For the mature traveller seeking a mix of relaxation, enrichment, and gentle adventure, it’s an ideal destination. You can spend your mornings touring volcanic wonders or art installations, your afternoons napping by the pool or on a quiet beach, and your evenings savoring good food under the stars. The island moves at an inviting pace. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or a wine enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of rewarding things to do and see – all without the need to rush or worry. Enjoy your Lanzarote escape, filled with unforgettable experiences and a touch of Canary Islands magic!