If you’re looking for one of the best views on Lanzarote, you won’t be disappointed. In a cliff-top former military fort, César Manrique has worked his magic to highlight the surrounding natural environment.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to Mirador del Rio in Lanzarote.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to the Mirador del Rio worthwhile?
Yes, the Mirador del Rio is well worth a visit:
- for its history as a military fort,
- for César Manrique’s incredible architectural and artistic touch,
- and, above all, for the breathtaking views over the island of La Graciosa.
It’s one of Lanzarote’s most beautiful landscapes and also one of César Manrique’s must-see works.
What you can see
The metallic sign typical of César Manrique sites
At each of Lanzarote’s famous sites, transformed by César Manrique to harmonize architecture and nature, you’ll find a metal sculpture representing the place.
Don’t miss it before entering the fort!
For the Mirador del Rio, this sign represents a bird and a fish. They are a metaphor for water and air.
A military fort
The mirador is located on the Risco de Famara at an altitude of over 475m.
It’s a 19th-century military fort. During the Spanish-American War, the army installed artillery batteries at this strategic location.
The best way to appreciate this structure and its military aspect, which now disappears into the mountain, is to walk down a few hundred meters along the cliff road. The entire structure is then revealed, as in the photo above.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Lanzarote
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- A small car is all you need.
- But you can also choose a larger one if you wish, as the parking spaces are rather large.
- Demand is high, so book early.
Reimagined by César Manrique
But César Manrique sees opportunities everywhere!
So, in the 1970s, he transformed it with Eduardo Cáceres and Jesús Soto, camouflaging it in the rocks and offering incredible views of the cliff, the island and the stretch of sea in between called El Rio. At the foot of the cliffs, you can also see the salt marshes of Salinas del Rio.
The interior building has white walls, and their curves provide beautiful frames for the magnificent scenery. César Manrique’s signature is clearly visible here.
But there aren’t many pieces to see. The main attraction is the view.
The pretty tunnel with Juan Brito’s ceramics leads from the entrance into a large vaulted room covered in lime. The whole perfectly frames the view, even if we missed our photo below with the excess light…
Low Mirador and view of La Graciosa
At a height of 475 m, this vantage point offers a perfect view of the island of La Graciosa.
This is a long viewpoint with a fence.
The island’s volcanic nature is clearly visible, with its plains and volcanic cones rising here and there.
La Graciosa covers an area of 29 km2. It is 8 km long and its summit reaches 266 m. And you can see almost all of it.
Bring your binoculars or use the spotting scopes to discover the island in detail. See all the island’s attractions.
You can even see another island behind: Ilsa de Montana Clara, which is uninhabited.
HAVE FUN WITH THESE Lanzarote activities
- Dolphin watching
- Buggy / Quad
- Kayak excursion
- But also: Diving at the Museum of the Atlantic, Catamaran outings, Paddle excursions, Parasailing
Cliff dizziness
In addition to the island of La Graciosa, from here you can also appreciate the impressive cliffs of Risco de Famara.
The walls seem to be really vertical, so people who are afraid of heights will have a hard time!
The highest point of its cliffs is 670m above sea level (Peñas del Chache).
This area is a nature park.
The spot is also popular for paragliding! See paragliding options in Lanzarote.
High watchtower
If you’re not afraid of heights, you can also climb the stairs inside the mirador to reach the upper terrace.
The view of the cliffs is not as good, but you still have a breathtaking view of the island of La Graciosa.
It really is one of Lanzarote’s must-see attractions.
On the way up, you’ll also find the souvenir store.
Hiking
And if you want to discover these spectacular landscapes on foot, the hike between Orzola and Mirador del Rio is one of the most impressive on the island. It’s an intense 10 km climb with a 452 m vertical drop, but the views are unforgettable.
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Mirador del Rio in Lanzarote: how to get there
Where to find the mirador del Rio
- On the north-western tip of Lanzarote
- On the LZ-202 road
- From Costa Teguise = 35 min
- From Puerto del Carmen = 45 min
- From Playa Blanca = 1h10
- Here’s a map showing the Mirador’s location:
Access by car and parking
Route LZ 202 leads to Mirador del Rio.
The eastern part of the road is wider, with one lane in each direction.
The western section is much narrower, with low walls on either side.
In front of the fort, you’ll find a large tarmac parking lot.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Lanzarote
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- A small car is all you need.
- But you can also choose a larger one if you wish, as the parking spaces are rather large.
- Demand is high, so book early.
Access by public transport or organized tour
There is no public transport access.
But if you don’t rent a car, organized tours of northern Lanzarote include a stop at the mirador so you can visit it and admire the view.
- Organized tour with discovery of La Graciosa: see program and availability
- Tour dedicated to the works of César Manrique: see program and availability
Visiting difficulties
Easy access to the first floor terrace. Walk to the upper terrace.
The official website states that the site is fully accessible to PRMs, except for the upper terrace.
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Visit Mirador del Rio: useful tips
Schedules and prices
- Open every day
- entries between 10 a.m. and 4:40 p.m.
- price: 8 euros
- free for children under 7 years old
- See the latest information on the official website here
How long, best time
Allow 30 minutes to enjoy the place and the views.
The view is mainly to the west. Sunshine isn’t a problem, but to admire the island of La Graciosa, morning light is best.
It’s a very popular spot, including for organized tours. You’ll have fewer people at the opening or at the end of the opening period.
Eating out
Inside there’s a snack bar with coffees and teas, and a magnificent view to enjoy!
Visiting with children
There’s nothing specific for children.
Please note that the upper terrace is not suitable for young children.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Lanzarote
- Best of
Most beautiful landscapes
Best things to do in Lanzarote
Most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful villages
Best boat tours
César Manrique’s attractions
Secret places, off the beaten track
Most beautiful hikes
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Lanzarote
How to get around
How to rent a car in Lanzarote
Driving tips
Where to stay in Lanzarote
Best hotels in Lanzarote
Best excursions
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
