Discover Tinajo in Lanzarote
Lanzarote has a very distinct flavour to it, like nowhere else, born out of cataclysmic eruptions that have left their mark in the forms of solidified lave rivers and incredible rock formations. In its native tongue ‘Tytheroygaka’ means, ‘one that is all ochre’ this refers to the main colour on the island, which appears almost black even in the sand of several of its beaches.
Tinajo
This area is not your typical tourist region; however it is proud of its picturesque villages and the surrounding surreal and stunning scenery, caused by being showered with volcanic lava years ago from the Timanfaya or Fire Mountains. Don’t get worried, the last recorded eruptions took place between 1730 and 1736.
What to do
Visit the beautiful bay of El Golfo; it is known as the emerald lake, you can even excavate semi-precious stones in the earth, the olivine stone was found here. The rugged coastline of Los Hervideros and the salt pans of Janubio are ideal for those who love taking dramatic photographs.
Timanfaya National Park, home to The Fire Mountains, is definitely a high point in both senses of the word. You can feel the immense power of the heat, not far below the earth’s surface. Watch as water boils and shoots into the sky, it is quite a sight.
If you are in the Tinajo region at Mancha Blanca around the 15th September you will be witness to the festival of our lady of Los Dolores (Our Lady of Sorrows) or the Virgen de los Volcanes (Our Lady of the Volcanoes). People come from all over, dressed in traditional costumes to be part of the parade. Spanish string instruments called timples and guitars are strummed as they make their way to the beautiful chapel of Los Dolores. It is estimated that some 40,000 visitors turn up for the occasion. Apart from Folk music and dance, food is high on the agenda, especially typical local dishes.
Running alongside this is the Handicraft Festival or feria de Artesanía. Traditional crafts from numerous craftsmen are displayed, ceramic products, sombrero hats and a wide range of interesting other articles abound. Another event that is popular is the Folk Festival Nanino Díaz Cutillas. This event brings together all the main traditional dance and music groups from all over the island.
There are plenty of beach areas some not very crowded, others suitable for wind surfing and others semi urban so that you do not have to go far for refreshments and shops. Not to mention the camel rides!