Ferry to La Graciosa

La Graciosa is a tiny, rugged island part of the Chinijo Archipelago, located to the northeast of Lanzarote in Spain’s Canary Islands. Known for its pristine beaches like Playa de las Conchas and untouched landscapes devoid of paved roads, this island is a haven for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Despite its compact size, La Graciosa offers an authentic slice of island life, where the pace is slow, and the scenery is awe-inspiring.

Arriving in La Graciosa involves a scenic journey filled with anticipation. The nearest airport is Lanzarote Airport (ACE), well-connected with European cities. From Lanzarote, head to the northern port town of Órzola, where ferries depart regularly for Caleta de Sebo, La Graciosa’s primary settlement. The ferry ride offers sweeping views of the volcanic landscape and the azure Atlantic waters. Once at Caleta de Sebo, the island can be explored best by bike or on foot, as cars are scarce, maintaining the island’s unspoiled charm.

Playa de la Concha: Visit this stunning golden sand beach on the north-west coast, famous for its wild beauty and views of Montaña Clara and Alegranza. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea, though swimming can be challenging due to strong currents.

Caleta de Sebo: Explore the charming main village of La Graciosa. Wander through its sandy streets, admire the traditional white-washed houses, and soak in the authentic fishing village atmosphere. This is where most of the island's services and restaurants are located.

Montaña Amarilla: Hike to the top of this distinctive yellow volcano for breathtaking panoramic views of the island, including the contrasting colours of its volcanic slopes against the blue Atlantic Ocean. The path starts near Playa de la Cocina.

Playa de la Cocina: Discover this secluded cove at Montaña Amarilla's foot. Its sheltered position offers calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and the dramatic volcanic backdrop makes it a truly picturesque spot.

Mirador del Río (from Lanzarote): While not on La Graciosa, a must-do is to experience the incredible panoramic view of La Graciosa from the Mirador del Río on Lanzarote. This viewpoint, designed by César Manrique, offers the most iconic vista of La Graciosa and the Chinijo Archipelago.

Fresh Seafood: Indulge in the local culinary delights, particularly the incredibly fresh seafood. Head to one of the restaurants in Caleta de Sebo and try local catches like cherne (wreckfish), sama (dentex), or grilled octopus, often served simply with Canarian papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and mojo sauces.

Cycling the Island: Rent a bicycle in Caleta de Sebo and explore the island's unpaved tracks. Cycling is one of the best ways to get around La Graciosa and discover its hidden beaches and volcanic landscapes at your own pace.

Water Sports: Engage in watersports, especially snorkelling or diving in the pristine waters of the Chinijo Archipelago Marine Reserve. The clear waters offer excellent visibility and a chance to observe diverse marine life. Equipment can be rented or tours arranged from Caleta de Sebo.

Casa Museo Archipiélago Chinijo: While small, visit this museum in Caleta de Sebo to learn about the history, geology, and ecology of the Chinijo Archipelago, providing context to the unique natural environment you're exploring.

Sunset from Pedro Barba: If you're looking for a tranquil and picturesque spot, head to the small hamlet of Pedro Barba on the east coast. While not as easily accessible as Caleta de Sebo, it offers a serene setting to watch the sunset over the Atlantic.

Visit La Graciosa any time of year due to its mild, subtropical climate. 

From June to September, enjoy sunbathing and swimming with temperatures averaging 26°C. 

The winter months, from December to February, are cooler, around 19°C, perfect for biking and hiking. 

Spring, from March to May, offers comfortable warmth, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes. 

Autumn is equally pleasant, creating perfect conditions for exploring the outdoors and beach relaxation.

Language and Official Status: La Graciosa is the smallest inhabited island of the Canary Islands, and officially became the eighth Canary Island in 2018. The official language is Spanish, as it is part of Spain.

Currency: Like the rest of Spain and the Canary Islands, the currency used on La Graciosa is the Euro (€).

Ancient History: Unlike some of the larger Canary Islands, La Graciosa's ancient history is characterised by being largely uninhabited for extended periods. Its small size and lack of significant natural resources meant it wasn't a primary focus for early indigenous populations or European explorers until much later.

Nearest Neighbours: La Graciosa is located just north of Lanzarote, separated by a narrow strait called El Río. This proximity makes Lanzarote its closest and most significant neighbour, providing essential services and connections.

Absence of Asphalt: One of the most striking historical aspects of La Graciosa is its lack of asphalt roads. The streets are made of sand, which gives the island a unique, rustic charm and helps preserve its natural environment.

Cultural Traditions: The island's culture is deeply rooted in its fishing heritage. The primary settlement, Caleta de Sebo, is a fishing village, and traditional fishing practices and boats are still a significant part of daily life and identity.

Festivals: The most important festival on La Graciosa is the Fiesta de Nuestra Señora del Carmen, celebrated in mid-July. This maritime procession honours the patron saint of seafarers, with the Virgen del Carmen statue being carried through the streets and then on a boat around the island.

Conservation and Natural Park Status: A significant aspect of La Graciosa's history and current status is its inclusion within the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park (Parque Natural del Archipiélago Chinijo). This protected status limits development and emphasises conservation of its unique ecosystems.

Eco-Tourism Focus: While tourism is present, it focuses on eco-friendly activities like hiking, cycling, and watersports, reflecting the island's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and quiet atmosphere.

La Graciosa spans approximately 11 sq mi (29 km²), making it the perfect place for those who love to wander without restriction. With no paved roads and a few sandy tracks connecting different parts of the island, exploring is best done by cycling or hiking. Visitors can relish the enchanting isolation while easily navigating between La Graciosa’s highlights, taking in the stunning coastal panoramas as they go.