Tias

The Tias municipality provides excellent exploring opportunities among its historic towns, sweeping plains and lively coastal region. Mingle with locals in peaceful Villa Tias, witness the glorious expanses of the Lanzarote lava flows or relax by the sea at Puerto del Carmen.

In a region of just a few thousand residents, Villa Tias serves as the administrative center. Though small, this town features numerous restaurants and tapas bars and stunning architecture imbued with traditional Lanzarote styles. Explore several English bars, which cater to the growing British expat community.

See some of the town’s best architecture at the Church of Candelaria, which features distinctly Spanish façades. In June, the Municipal Theatre hosts folk and jazz events.

One of Tias' premier attractions is the Casa José Saramago, a museum enshrining the life of one of Lanzarote's greatest writers. Tour the former home of José Saramago, see the rooms where he percolated his ideas and hear accounts of his life from an audio guide. Purchase a documentary on his life at the gift shop.

Rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside, where you'll see picturesque farmlands around small hamlets. To the northwest, the Timanfaya National Park features expansive flatlands made from volcanic rock. Photograph the vast, barren plains or enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.

For sun and sea, head to Tias' coast, known as La Tinosa. Join summer crowds heading to Puerto del Carmen, a popular sea resort that was once a fishing village. Tan on white-sand beaches, recharge at health spas and dance the night away at beach bars. Be sure to explore its old town, where you can find international cuisine in pretty buildings clustered around a harbor.

Tias is located in southeast Lanzarote, a 15-minute drive from Arrecife. Around the coast, play golf, take a windsurfing lesson or go on a diving tour of Playa Chica. This marine environment features microhabitats of Canarian fish in interesting volcanic rock formations.