Located in a pretty locale on Lanzarote's eastern coast, the Teguise Cactus Garden seamlessly combines art and nature. Admire the architectural flair of the terraced grounds, enjoy a drink at the on-site bar and photograph the visually captivating cacti displays.
The site's artistic side is the handiwork of César Manrique, a famed Spanish architect. The garden pays homage to the natural beauty of the Teguise municipality's landscape and the region's agricultural industry of harvesting cochineal, a cactus parasite used to make red dye.
Walk through the calming landscape and admire Manrique's designs. Built in a former quarry for the extraction of volcanic rock, the predominantly green cacti arrangements are pleasingly contrasted by ashen rocky outcrops.
The terraced layout stretches below a pretty colonial windmill, which was once used to grind the region's corn. Climb stairs made from volcanic rock to reach it and get a great view of the garden and surrounding area.
As you explore, spot the differences between the 1,400 species of cacti that color the garden. Some of the species grow quite large, reaching a few feet tall. Take a guided tour of the garden to learn about the medicinal properties of certain species and their importance to the region's agriculture.
Have a break and enjoy a coffee at the on-site restaurant. Meals and sandwiches are also served on the outdoor terrace, which looks down onto the garden displays. On your way out, pass through a gift shop that sells small cacti in pots and themed souvenirs.
See more of Manrique's work developing tourist attractions at Jameos del Agua, a series of lava tube caves to the north. Alternatively, experience a spectacular view of the coast at Mirador del Rio, a cliff-top lookout.
Find the Cactus Garden near the township of Guatiza. Get there via a short bus from Teguise city or Arrecife. The grounds are open daily from morning until early evening. A small admission fee is charged upon entry.
