Arrecife Shore Excursion

This Arrecife shore trip explores the spaces and art created, out of the landscape, by artist C̩sar Manrique. Highlights include the Jameos del Agua Cave, Cueva de los Verdes and Mirador del Rio.

C̩sar Manrique was fascinated by Lanzarote's unique volcanic landscape, which others thought of as an arid inhospitable desert. For him, the island's volcanic essence was synonymous with beauty, and it was out of respect, admiration and gratitude for this environment (where he grew up) that he developed his work. Although he defined himself as a painter, the truth is that Manrique was also a sculptor, architect, town planner, landscape artist, ecologist and monument conservationist, which comes through in all of his work.

After meeting your guide, you will depart for the Jameos del Agua Cave, the artist's first and perhaps most spectacular work in Lanzarote. He created a natural auditorium that is perfectly integrated into a whimsical volcanic formation. Its beauty, contrast of light and colors make it a creation admired the world over. This site encapsulates what Manrique did throughout his life, compose spaces in which human contributions were perfectly integrated into the natural surroundings, thereby magnifying their beauty and value.

Next, you visit the Cueva de los Verdes, which belongs to a system of underground caves more than 3 miles long. The caves and galleries emerged during the volcanic eruption of Monte de La Corona. In 1964, a 1 mile route was prepared for visitors. Good lighting provides this natural monument with theatrical effects.

After this visit there is a stop where you can have lunch before continuing on to Mirador del Rio

Finally you visit the Mirador del Rio, another of his projects in Lanzarote, and a vantage point magnificently integrated into the islands northern cliffs. Manriques house is perhaps the piece that best represents his personal and artistic ideals and it expresses his longing to live together with lava. The house is an exceptional example of the integration of a residence into natural surroundings, creating an oasis in the middle of a river of blue-black lava.

After seeing these wonderful, natural pieces of art, you return to Arrecife.

Mobility: NO wheelchairs