Lanzarote

The island of La Graciosa, meaning 'the graceful one', is just a 20-minute ferry ride from Orzola and... certainly lives up to its name. The island (500 inh.) is virtually untouched by tourism and remains unspoilt in terms of nature. So it is perfect for those who are happy with simple accommodation rather than a hotel with all the amenities. You can find your way around the island on foot or by bike. King Juan Carlos declared La Graciosa a nature reserve in 1986. Any plans to expand tourism on the island have, fortunately, been quashed. There are a few restaurants right next to the harbour in the main town, Caleta del Sebo. If you decide to spend a few days in one of the two bed and breakfasts on the island, you must not be afraid of your own company. The little island is a perfect destination for individual tourists seeking peace and quiet, or for day-trippers who like wonderful deserted beaches. The Playa del Salado is the most charming beach on the island which scores much more highly than even the most idyllic beach on Lanzarote. Incidentally: it takes about eight hours to go around the island on foot. more

In 1974, César Manrique constructed this wonderful viewing platform, which offers an unobstructed view... of the offshore island La Graciosa, in the northern part of the island. The enormous panorama window does not fail to disappoint. La Graciosa lies in front of the viewer, outstretched in all its beauty. The steep faces of the 2,200-ft (670 m) high Risco de Famara, which rises slightly above the small Salinas del Río and its pink-colored, shimmering salty water, is directly underneath the Mirador. Although one can only drink a cup of coffee or a drink at the bar itself, and the few tables in the whitewashed room look rather forlorn, the area around the fireplace is very cozy. A small shop is located on the floor above and sells books as well as memorabilia from Lanzarote. This is also the way to the roof of the Mirador and the highest viewing point. more

The museum possesses one of the most important collections in Europe on wales and dolphins and displays... the results of 20 years of research projects and examinations. Experts provide guided tours and familiarize visitors with the animals and oceanic waters by showing them images, life-sized illustrations, models, skeletons or introducing them to certain sounds. The museum also includes an outdoor area and four exhibition halls, one of which is explicitly devoted to the preservation of sea mammals around the Canary Islands. more