Mirador del Rio

The Mirador del Rio is an architecturally attractive vantage point in the far north of Lanzarote. The Mirador del Rio was completed in the mid-seventies of last century and is one of the most important modern buildings in the world. It is located 475m above sea level. The high cliffs are over 600 meters high.

American artist Cesar Manrique designed the vantage point (the official opening was in 1974), which is built in the typical style, Manrique in the rocks. It is located on the precipice of a parapet, and there is a cafe with large panoramic windows, a souvenir shop and a viewing platform on top. Right angles have been avoided in all rooms. Parking, the observation deck and stairs are all rounded.

The breathtaking views over the high rocky cliffs are about two kilometers wide and have been named Strait Rio (Spanish for “across the river”). The Chinijo archipelago includes the islands of La Graciosa, Alegranza, Montana Clara, Roque del Este and the rock, all making Mirador del Rio a tourist attraction. At the foot of the slope (Risco de Famara), is one of the oldest salt mines in the Canaries. The peculiar red of some of its segments is due to the tiny brine shrimp. To the west, adjacent to the salt flats we see the white Playa del Risco. It is accessible only by boat and on footpaths.

During the war between Cuba and the United States in the late 19 Century, where now the Mirador del Rio is located, gun batteries were installed. East of the viewpoint you can still see remnants of it.