La Graciosa: an unspoilt island in the Canary Archipelago
Discover La Graciosa, a unique island in the Canary Archipelago where time seems to have stood still. This eighth inhabited island of the archipelago, located off the northern coast of Lanzarote, offers travellers an authentic experience in touch with pristine nature.
Geographical location and transport accessibility
La Graciosa is just 2 kilometres from Lanzarote, being part of the Parque Natural del Archipiélago Chinijo (Chinijo Natural Reserve). The island can be reached by ferry from the port of Orzola (Puerto de Órzola), a journey of about 25 minutes. Ferries run daily from 8:00 to 19:00 at hourly intervals.
The 29 square kilometre island has only 750 inhabitants, most of whom are concentrated in the village of Caleta del Sebo. Remarkably, it is the only settlement in Europe where there are no tarmac roads at all.
Natural attractions
Four main elevations form the volcanic landscape of the island:
- Montaña Bermeja (Montaña Bermeja) – 157 metres
- Montaña del Mojón (Montaña del Mojón) – 188 metres.
- Las Agujas – 266 metres
- Montaña Amarilla – 172 metres.
Each peak offers unique panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean. Hiking trails of varying difficulty allow you to explore these natural attractions.
Beaches and coves
La Graciosa’s coastline is renowned for its unspoilt golden sand beaches:
- Playa de las Conchas (Playa de las Conchas) is the island’s most famous beach at 600 metres long
- Playa Francesa is a sheltered cove with calm waters.
- Playa de la Cocina is a secluded beach in the south-west.
- Playa del Salado – ideal for snorkelling.
Active holidays
The island offers a variety of activities:
- Diving – over 12 equipped dive sites
- Surfing – especially popular on the north coast from October to March.
- Kayaking – kayak hire is available in Caleta del Sebo.
- Hiking – a network of marked trails totalling 25 kilometres.
- Cycling – mountain bike hire to explore the sandy roads
Cultural Heritage
The island’s history is closely linked to the fishing industry. The local Museum of the Sea (Museo del Mar) displays traditional fishing gear, maps and photographs that tell the island’s history. The traditional architecture of Caleta del Sebo, with its white-washed houses, reflects the simple and harmonious way of life of the locals.
Gastronomic highlights
The cuisine of La Graciosa is based on the gifts of the sea:
- Fresh fish – viejas (vieja) and chopos are particularly appreciated
- Seafood – octopus, squid, lobster.
- Papas arrugadas – a traditional side dish made of potatoes.
- Mojo verde – local coriander sauce.
- Mojo rojo is a spicy paprika sauce.
Practical information
- Best time to visit: March-October
- Air temperature: 20-28°C all year round
- Water temperature: 19-23°C
- Accommodation: small hotels and apartments in Caleta del Sebo.
- Infrastructure: grocery shops, restaurants, medical centre
- Mobile communication: stable 4G coverage
- ATMs: one in the centre of Caleta del Sebo
Time flows differently on La Graciosa, allowing you to immerse yourself in the unhurried rhythm of island life. There are no traffic lights or tarmac roads, but everything you need for a comfortable holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Pristine nature, clean beaches and the hospitality of the locals create the perfect conditions for an unforgettable holiday.