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Lanzarote is a volcanic island that is part of the Canary Islands off the coast of Morocco. The island is famed for its bewildering volcanic landscapes – think multi-coloured craters and black lava fields against the stunning backdrop of the deep blue Atlantic. Of the many attractions on the island, the Jameos del Agua is arguably one of the most enchanting. You simply have to see it to experience its magic.

So what is it? The Jameos del Agua is a series of caves and lava tubes formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. The roof of certain sections of the lava tubes collapsed, creating a chain of caves interspersed with open spaces with black lava walls. ‘Jameo’ refers to the sections of the lava tube with a collapsed roof. A local architect, Cesar Manrique, saw the unique possibilities of this space and designed a multi-purpose centre that includes a restaurant, nightclub, auditorium and the museum of seismology.

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Jameos del Agua is an attraction built inside a lava tube. Manrique created wondrous gardens in sections where the roof of the cave collapsed.

Jameos del Agua, a top attraction in Lanzarote

Upon entering the Jameos, visitors descend down a series of steps into an open cavern called the Jameo Chico. This jameo houses a restaurant that overlooks a large lava tube with a lake. The crystal-clear water of the lake is a stunning blue. You can walk past the lake along a narrow pathway – look out for the little albino crabs which are unique to Lanzarote.

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Steps lead down to the Jameo Chico
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The lake with its stunning blue crystalline water
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Reflections in the lake.



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“The most beautiful nightclub in the world”

At the other end of the tube, another series of steps leads visitors into another open space: the Jameo Grande. There’s really nothing quite like it. Emerging from the darkness of the lava tube, you’ll be struck by the white surfaces and the turquoise water of the pool. Palm trees and shrubs line the pool, making it easily one of the most attractive swimming pools I’ve ever seen. The Jameo Grande is often used for parties – Cesar Manrique dubbed it as “the most beautiful nightclub in the world” and it’s hard not to agree with that!

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The fabulous pool in the Jameo Grande.

At the end of the Jameo Grande, another wonder awaits: the auditorium. This concert hall, built in a cave, can house 600 spectators and boasts excellent acoustics. I didn’t have the chance to experience a concert in this cave but clap your hands to get an idea of the quality of the acoustics.

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The amazing auditorium

Lanzarote is easily accessible by ferry or air from mainland Spain. In addition, there are many direct flights to Lanzarote from many major cities in Europe. If you’re visiting Lanzarote, you cannot miss the Jameos del Agua. It’s, well, simply… enchanting! Check out my post on things to do in Lanzarote for more tips and my guide to the best places to visit in Lanzarote on a road trip.

 

 

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