This Canary Island, adorned with amazing turquoise coves and majestic volcanoes, is a carefully preserved hidden treasure.
Just a few minutes by boat from Orzola and north of Lanzarote lies a little-known treasure in the waters of the Atlantic: La Graciosa. Located in the heart of the Chinijo archipelago marine reserve, La Graciosa is Spain's most carefully kept secret. It is the archipelago’s smallest island, whose waters make up the largest marine reserve in Europe. With its volcanoes and landscapes of unrivalled beauty, it offers a unique environment, perfect to enjoy nature, peace, beauty and sunny beaches.
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The origins of a volcanic gem
Although the precise details of its discovery are unclear, legend has it that the island was first discovered by Spanish explorers at the height of the Age of Discovery in the late 15 th century. In the past, it was a major point of interest for explorers looking for new trade routes and territories to conquer.
The island's evocative and poetic name comes from an expedition of Portuguese sailors who were amazed by the island's natural elegance and named it after the Virgin of Grace, La Graciosa.
How to get to La Graciosa
Small, peaceful and pristine... La Graciosa, a haven of peace with fewer than 700 inhabitants, is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy a peaceful holiday.
Just a 4-hour flight away, there's only one way to reach the island: by boat. You can take a ferry from the port of Órzola on the island of Lanzarote to Caleta de Sebo, the main port of La Graciosa. You can also reach the island from Fuerteventura by taking a ferry from Corralejo to Caleta de Sebo.
What to do in La Graciosa
Relax on Spain's famous beaches
La Graciosa enjoys a mild, sunny climate all year round, making it an incredible destination whatever the season. The island’s quiet paradise beaches are an invitation to relax, whether you're looking for a swim, a stroll or just a break in front of the ocean.
The island’s most popular beach is La Francesa, the perfect spot to spend a moment connecting with nature. The soft white sand and turquoise waters give this place a Caribbean feel. Its waters are shallow in places and deeper in others, forming a natural lagoon perfect to go snorkelling or to ake children playing.
If you’re feeling adventurous and looking for a thrill, La Cocina beach will captivate you with its impressive views of the Famara cliffs. If you're lucky, you might even spot a few dolphins out to sea.
For something more intimate, head to Ambra beach - also known as Lamba. With its wild, soothing setting, white sand dunes, volcanic rocks and crystal-clear waters, it's an ideal place to relax. Enjoy your time, recharge your batteries, or spend romantic quality time with your loved one, away from it all.
Taste the delights of the Canary Islands
All the restaurants on La Graciosa are located in Caleta de Sebo, the island's main town, with its Greek white houses. If you love seafood, this is the place for you. To start your day, head to the El Marinero restaurant, which serves fine, frothy coffees.
For lunch or dinner, the Mesón de la Tierra restaurant and the La Caletilla Casa Chano bar-restaurant, open for lunch and dinner, offer a wide range of local dishes featuring fresh delicacies plucked from the sea. Typical Canarian dishes include Vieja (salted fish), Papas Arrugadas with Mojo (hot sauce) and goat's cheese.
See nature in all its unmarred glory
The preservation and sustainability of La Graciosa is of great importance to islanders. As a result, access may be restricted to a few unspoilt areas. The Chinijo archipelago, which encompasses a large part of La Graciosa and neighbouring islands, has been declared a protected area in order to preserve the island’s exceptional biodiversity and unique volcanic landscapes. Visitor limits have been introduced and restrictions put in place to safeguard the delicate ecosystems and species that inhabit the reserve.
Discover the island’s depths
La Graciosa, although small, has plenty of treasures from the sea. Snorkelling, diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding and kayaking - all activities to suit any adventurer big or small, allowing you to discover and contemplate the richness of a well-protected lagoon. Its waters , shallow on one coast and deeper on the other, offer total immersion in the island's underwater wonders.
Stroll the cobbled streets
The best way to get around La Graciosa, where there are virtually no motor vehicles, is to explore the streets on foot while admiring the scenery.
The most popular way to get around the island is to rent a bicycle to go off exploring the picturesque villages. It's an opportunity to admire the traditional architecture of the whitewashed houses and to browse the small shops and restaurants in the area.
Another popular option is to hire a driver to drive you around the island, an especially practical solution to discover beaches not necessarily accessible by bike.
Contemplate all the archipelago has to offer
To better appreciate the splendour of nature, El Mirador del Río is a great vantage point 500 metres high atop a cliff, offering an impressive panorama with Lanzarote and the Chinijo archipelago.
A must-see spot, with perfect panoramas, ideal for capturing your best holiday snaps, especially come sunset.
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