Cruises to Arrecife, Lanzarote, Spain
Port description
Arrecife first appeared on maps in the 15th century as a small harbour and its maritime roots are still very much in evidence. About half of the Island's population reside in Arrecife, which has grown considerably in recent years.
The skyline is dominated by the tallest building on Lanzarote, the Grand Hotel. This building lay as a burnt-out eyesore for many years, before it's recent renovation. The top-floor houses a restaurant with spectacular views of the City.
Arrecife became the capital of Lanzarote at the end of the 18th century taking over from its predecessor Teguise, it is best described as a bustling, friendly and unpretentious city.
Its name originates from the abundance of reefs and islets along the coast ( Arrecife means 'reef' in Spanish), which form a magnificent sea front promenade and provide many natural harbours.
Arrecife is the principle commercial and administrative area of the Island, with it's ports, Cabildo (Island Government), Notaries and Courts. The main shopping street, Castillo y Leon (AKA Calle Real), hosts a wide variety of shops and cafes.
