Lanzarote Mirador del Rio

Mirador del Rio is perched high above the island, right at the northern tip of Lanzarote, where the Famara cliffs rise up to meet the sky. At 475 metres above sea level, this remarkable viewpoint was created by Cesar Manrique in 1973. It is cleverly built into the cliff itself, and from here you can enjoy some of the most stunning views you will find anywhere in the Canary Islands.

From this vantage point, you can gaze down over the narrow stretch of water known as El Rio, which gently divides Lanzarote from its little neighbour, La Graciosa. On a clear day, your eyes can wander even further, taking in the untouched beauty of Montana Clara and Alegranza, and sometimes you can even spot Fuerteventura far to the south. The building itself is a true hidden gem, blending so seamlessly into the cliff that it is almost part of the landscape. It stands as a wonderful example of Manrique’s vision of architecture living in harmony with nature.

From the car park, you might easily miss the entrance, so carefully has Manrique tucked the building into the cliffside. Step inside, though, and the space opens up in a way that always takes my breath away, no matter how many times I visit. Curved glass windows invite you to take in the sweeping views, while the volcanic rock walls make you feel as though you are still part of the landscape outside.

The main viewing area is wonderfully spacious, with a double-height ceiling and a spiral staircase that links two levels, each offering its own unique angle on the breathtaking scenery. Directly below lies La Graciosa, with its white sand beaches and the little village of Caleta de Sebo easy to spot. The old salt flats of Salinas del Rio stretch out at the foot of the cliff, their shapes adding a quiet rhythm to the view. The colours here are something special: the deep blue of the strait, the golden sands of La Graciosa, the warm ochre of the cliffs, and the white spray where the waves meet the rocks.

The cafe tucked inside the viewpoint is one of those places where you can truly take a moment to relax, whether you fancy a good coffee, a slice of homemade cake or a simple sandwich. Cold drinks are on offer too, which can be especially welcome after a walk in the Lanzarote sun. While the prices are a touch higher than you might see elsewhere on the island, the setting more than makes up for it. Sitting beside the sweeping glass windows, looking out over the breathtaking 475-metre drop, you soon realise that the view itself is worth every cent.

On busier days, the cafe can fill up quickly, but there is also an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy the same stunning views if the weather is kind. The tables inside offer a comfortable spot to sit back for twenty minutes or so, simply soaking up the panorama and letting the beauty of the north of Lanzarote sink in.

Mirador del Rio is not the most accessible of Lanzarote’s attractions, but with a little planning, many visitors can still enjoy its breathtaking views. The main viewing area is reached through a tunnel-like entrance and a few steps, though there is a ramp along part of the way. If you follow the right route, you can reach the main viewing floor without needing to use steps, but do be aware that the lower level is only accessible by a spiral staircase.

Wheelchair users may be able to access the main viewing area with a bit of help, though this can depend on the route taken and the conditions on the day. The car park is paved and only gently sloped, making arrival straightforward for most. Toilets are available on site, but not all are adapted for wheelchair use, so it’s a good idea to check with the CACT centres ahead of your visit for the latest information. Mirador del Rio is a place that appeals to all ages. Children, in particular, love peering down at the islands far below and feeling the thrill of the height, all from the safety of glass panels and a secure terrace.

Elderly visitors who are comfortable walking short distances on the flat should find the main viewing area manageable. It’s worth noting that the outdoor terrace can be very windy at times, which might be a challenge for anyone who feels a bit unsteady. However, the visit itself involves very little walking, so for those who can manage the entrance passage, Mirador del Rio is one of the more accessible of Manrique’s creations.

Entry is €9 for adults, with a reduced rate of €4.50 for children, and little ones under 7 can visit free of charge. Of all the CACT attractions, this is the most affordable, and it is also included if you opt for a combined ticket. The site is open every day, usually from 10 in the morning until 5.45 in the evening. 

Most visitors spend around 30 to 45 minutes here, though you might want to linger a little longer if you decide to enjoy a coffee or snack at the café. If you are a Lanzarote resident, be sure to ask about the generous local discounts.

You will find the viewpoint at the far northern tip of Lanzarote, along the LZ-202 road. It is about a 30-minute drive from Haria, or 45 minutes if you are coming from Costa Teguise, and there is plenty of free parking when you arrive. The main thing to keep in mind is the wind. Perched 475 metres above sea level on an exposed clifftop, it can feel very breezy up here, even when the rest of the island is calm. I always recommend bringing a jacket or something windproof, just in case.

If the wind picks up, you will find plenty of shelter inside. Many visitors like to combine a visit to Mirador del Rio with stops at Cueva de los Verdes, Jameos del Agua and the Jardin de Cactus, making for a wonderful day out exploring the north of Lanzarote.

If you take the winding road up towards Mirador del Rio, you will find several lovely spots to pause and take in the view of La Graciosa, all without needing to pay an entrance fee. 

One of my favourites is the old gun emplacement, known as the Bateria del Rio, where an old artillery piece still stands as a reminder of the island’s history. The vistas from these viewpoints are truly impressive, offering a sweeping panorama of the island and the sea beyond. 

While they may not have the perfectly framed outlook you’ll find inside Manrique’s remarkable building, they are well worth a stop, especially if you are watching your budget. For those who appreciate thoughtful architecture and design, I always recommend setting aside a little extra for the entrance fee – the experience inside is something quite special.