A small treasure
Small, quiet, without asphalt or pollution, unspoilt nature, paradisiacal beaches with turquoise waters and white sand, austere landscapes, scarcely inhabited... Yes, although it is hard to believe, such a place exists just a few hours away from any city in Europe.
Just half an hour from Lanzarote, connected by modern boats that make several round trips a day, this little treasure of the Canary Islands is a dream come true for travellers seeking solitude, relaxation and an absolute connection with a natural environment.
Like the rest of the Canary archipelago, La Graciosa It is also blessed with an exceptional climate throughout the year, so any time of year is good to enjoy this paradise that forms part of the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park and one of the three Marine Reserves that exist in the Canary Islands, as well as being a refuge for numerous marine birds.
An island protected in its entirety that invites you to relax, to sunbathe and bathe, to discover its corners on foot or by bicycle, to enjoy the Canarian gastronomy by the sea?
Much more than a treasure!
La GraciosaThe whole of its protected territory is also part of the Lanzarote and Chinijo Archipelago Geopark, the second of those declared in the Canary Islands.
Every year, the El Río crossing is held, which consists of swimming the distance between Lanzarote and La Graciosa.
Unspoilt beaches with turquoise waters
The pristine and secluded beaches, white sands and turquoise waters are the main attraction of La Graciosa. It is surprising that, being such a small island, it is possible to enjoy a different beach every day of our stay.
We can choose between those that are somewhat more frequented -depending on the time of year- and others where we will find absolute solitude, there are also those with calm waters, ideal for snorkelling or those with waves and currents where we must be more cautious, those with white sand, golden sand and volcanic rock, creating contrasts of tonalities where they are mixed that seem unreal.
La Graciosa by bicycle
One of the best ways to get around La Graciosa is by bicycle. As well as being environmentally friendly - let's not forget that we are in a protected territory in its entirety - the flat terrain of the island allows us to discover its beautiful corners while cycling with little difficulty. The routes are properly signposted and we must not leave the paths to avoid any damage to the natural environment. Nor do we have to worry about the bike, as we can rent it for as long as we want on the island and enjoy a fun experience.
Let's pedal!
La Graciosa The few roads are still unpaved. Motor vehicle traffic is restricted.
Walking routes
There are several trails on the island that cover a large part of a territory dominated by austere volcanic landscapes where there are no trees or shadows to shelter from the sun. As with cyclists, hikers should also avoid leaving the marked trails so as not to damage this fragile and valuable ecosystem, which is home to endemic species found nowhere else on the planet.
The four main hiking trails lead to the island's paradisiacal beaches and other interesting places that are sure to leave no one indifferent. A leisurely stroll along these trails while enjoying a beautiful sunset is an unforgettable experience.
La GraciosaThe smallest of the Canary Islands is part of the Chinijo Archipelago, whose waters form the largest Marine Reserve in Europe.
The richness of the seabed
The environment of La Graciosa Together with the islets to the north of Lanzarote, it forms one of the three Marine Reserves of the Canary Islands, a protection that was established to preserve the richness of the seabed in this area of the Canary Islands archipelago. It is easy to deduce that the island is perfect for diving enthusiasts, who will find an enormous diversity of flora and fauna species here, as well as rugged underwater volcanic landscapes abounding in caves and tunnels.
But if diving into the sea exceeds our aspirations, no problem, La Graciosa offers us alternatives so that we don't miss these wonders. Some of the island's beaches, those with calm waters, are ideal for putting on snorkels and goggles and enjoying this natural aquarium while snorkelling. In fact, it is not uncommon to see small boats, like sailboats, anchored near the coast and their sailors sunbathing on deck or diving into the clear waters in search of the perfect photograph. And brag on Instagram!
Contemplate La Graciosa from the sea
Are we content to discover the beauties of this small island on a bicycle or walking along one of its trails? Of course not. From the neighbouring Lanzarote or from Caleta de Sebo we can hire a boat excursion that, sailing close to the coast and on calm waters, will take us to enjoy The Funny in a different way.
Imagine a pleasant ride on a modern catamaran, with lunch included, while you feel the warmth of the sun and the refreshing and restorative sea breeze on your skin and at the same time observe the uninhabited islets that make up the Chinijo Archipelago, as well as Montaña Amarilla and the beach of La Cocina. Already.... we already know it, we have to live it.
The term "Chinijo", which is the name of the archipelago to which it belongs, has been used to refer to the La Graciosa along with other islets, means "small" and is used by the local population mainly to refer to children.
Don't leave without trying...
Fresh fish is the speciality of this small Atlantic island, accompanied by other products of Canarian gastronomy such as wrinkled potatoes and mojo, a slightly spicy sauce typical of the Canary Islands.