Another must-see in Lanzarote!
The Jardín de Cactus (Cactus Garden) is one of the most famous attractions on Lanzarote, located in the village of Guatiza, in the northeastern part of the island. Designed by the renowned artist and architect César Manrique, it is a stunning example of how art and nature can blend harmoniously with the unique volcanic landscape of the island.
Key Features of the Jardín de Cactus: Design and Architecture: • The garden is set within an old cactus farm and covers an area of about 5,000 square meters. Manrique transformed the space by integrating the natural volcanic terrain with modern landscaping and design elements. • The garden features a striking windmill (molino) at its center, which was restored and now serves as a focal point for visitors. It adds a unique architectural touch that reflects Lanzarote’s history and agricultural heritage. Cactus Collection: • The Jardín de Cactus boasts a diverse collection of over 1,000 species of cacti and succulents, many of which are native to arid regions of the Americas, Africa, and other parts of the world. • The arrangement of the plants is meticulously designed, with cacti of various shapes, sizes, and colors, creating visually striking patterns and contrasts. Integration with Nature: • True to César Manrique’s vision, the garden blends with the surrounding volcanic landscape. The paths are carved from the natural lava rock, and the plants are arranged in harmony with the island’s unique geography. • The use of volcanic stone and natural materials throughout the garden complements the barren yet beautiful landscape of Lanzarote. Educational Value: • The garden not only serves as a visual feast but also offers educational insight into the different species of cacti, their adaptation to dry environments, and the ecological significance of these plants in desert ecosystems. Cultural and Artistic Heritage: • The Jardín de Cactus is a perfect example of César Manrique’s philosophy, which emphasized environmental sustainability, artistic expression, and the preservation of Lanzarote’s natural beauty. • The garden is one of several of Manrique’s creations on the island, all of which reflect his dedication to integrating art with nature.
Visiting the Jardín de Cactus:
The Jardín de Cactus is a must-visit destination for anyone touring Lanzarote. It offers not only a peaceful and visually stunning experience but also a chance to appreciate Manrique’s genius in blending art and nature. The garden is open to visitors year-round, and it is a great place for photography, relaxation, and learning about the diversity of...
Read moreA big cactus garden is a spectacular sight to behold. As you enter, you're greeted by towering cacti that rise up to the sky, some reaching over 10 feet in height. The garden is filled with an array of cactus species, each with its own unique shape, color, and texture.
The garden is arranged in a way that allows you to stroll through it, taking in the beauty and diversity of the cacti. The paths wind their way through the garden, offering glimpses of the different types of cacti from different angles. As you walk, you'll notice the sunlight filtering through the spines of the cacti, casting a warm, golden glow on everything around you.
In the midst of the cactus garden, you might find a tranquil pond or a bubbling fountain. These water features provide a refreshing respite from the heat of the desert sun, and they attract a variety of wildlife, from songbirds to lizards.
The garden is also home to other desert plants, such as succulents and wildflowers, which add a splash of color to the landscape. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of desert blooms, and you might even catch a glimpse of a butterfly or hummingbird hovering nearby.
Overall, a big cactus garden is a breathtaking display of nature's beauty and resilience. It's a testament to the hardiness of desert plants and a reminder of the unique and wondrous ecosystems that exist in even the harshest...
Read moreStunning! So many varieties and as a family we all enjoyed different aspects of it. There's plenty to explore in the well designed and created garden.
There's a windmill that's worth the short climb up the stairs for the views. We smacked at the cafe where wait staff were excellent. Table service and QR code menus in Spanish and English. We had cactus croquettes, cactus maki rolls and prickly pear juice. Exquisite and very reasonably priced.
There is a small gift shop within the gardens which has unique and quality gifts. We bought tickets online but plenty of people turned up on the day and purchased tickets on the gate without delay.
There are clean and well kept toilets, including wheelchair accessible bathrooms. Some areas are not fully accessible but if you have limited mobility or are a wheelchair user you will be able to enjoy the vast majority.
Very young children may find this a little dull and a running toddler among all the cacti may be a recipe for disaster! Ages 5 upwards will find things of interest and it's a relatively small garden.
A couple of shadier spots and further development of the pond area would further improve...
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