Exploring La Geria is an experience you can’t miss when visiting Lanzarote. This is the island’s emblematic wine-growing area, located between Uga and Mozaga. Its vineyards grow in hand-dug pits covered with volcanic lapilli —known locally as picón or rofe— which helps retain moisture in the soil, while low stone walls shelter the vines from the wind.
Discover everything you need to know about La Geria: how to get there, which places to visit, and which wineries are the main ones to explore.
Why should you go exploring La Geria?
The Canary Islands are famous for their wine production, and some of the best wines of this region are produced in Lanzarote. The island’s wineries are concentrated in the La Geria area, a valley located in the south-central part of Lanzarote.
There are around 20 wineries here, producing dry, medium-dry, sweet and medium-sweet wines. Most are white wines, although some wineries also produce red and rosé wines.
Lanzarote’s farmers developed their own traditional methods of growing vines, making the most of the characteristics of the volcanic soil. This technique, which is unique in the world, involves digging conical pits into the volcanic ash until the fertile soil beneath is reached, where the vine is planted. The pits are then covered with a layer of rofe, which retains moisture and prevents evaporation. A semicircular stone wall, known as a zoco, is built around each vine to protect it from trade winds.
When you visit La Geria, you will find a moon-like landscape that you won’t see anywhere else. Also, there, it is possible to visit the wineries and try some of their wines.
Even if you are not a wine lover, it is worth going on a tour around La Geria. This landscape is unique, and you will learn how the locals have adapted to the changes produced by volcanic eruptions.
You can visit one or several wineries the same day. And some tours can be family-friendly.
On the other hand, if you are interested in sports and outdoor activities, there are hiking routes that go across La Geria.
Where is La Geria located, and how do you get there?
La Geria wine route is located in the centre of Lanzarote, around the LZ-30 road, between Uga and Mozaga. The wineries are situated on both sides of the road, which you can follow from north to south and vice versa.
The area is easy to find, as Timanfaya National Park lies to the north of La Geria.
Public transport to La Geria is limited. There are no bus stops within the main wine-growing area, although bus routes 5, 34 and 19 serve nearby villages and surrounding areas. The nearest bus stop is Palmera La Asomada, from where you need to walk to La Geria.
If you are staying in Puerto del Carmen, the drive is short. Take the LZ-504 road towards Tías, then join the LZ-30. From Playa Blanca, head northeast towards Uga along the LZ-2, before taking the LZ-30. If you are coming from Costa Teguise, first take the LZ-3 bypass around Arrecife, then join the LZ-2 and continue to the LZ-30. Exact driving times vary depending on traffic and which winery you choose to visit.
The most flexible options are to hire a car, take a taxi or join an organised excursion. If you plan to take a wine tasting, arrange your return journey in advance, especially if you prefer not to drive afterwards. For a private transfer to or from the area, you can check Lanzarote transfers.
What to Do in La Geria?
La Geria has something for everyone. It is a place which has activities all year long. No matter if you want to taste the best wines of Lanzarote or if you are looking for a unique place to hike.
Visits to Renowned Wineries
The main attractions at La Geria are the landscape and the wineries. So this should be a must during your trip to Lanzarote.
You can take a tour to one or more wineries; they are close to each other. Once there, it is possible to try their wines and, if you like them, you can buy some to take home with you. Also, you can eat at the wineries, so take your time to experience this part of the island.
At the wineries you will learn about the unique wine-making process that thrives in this volcanic region. Also, how the Malvasía grape benefits from the island’s microclimate and rich, volcanic soil.
El Grifo, La Geria and Rubicón are among the best-known wineries in La Geria. Los Bermejos and Stratvs are two other wineries worth visiting. The latter is one of Lanzarote’s newer wineries, having opened in 2008.
Wine Tastings and Gastronomic Experiences
Your trip to La Geria won’t be complete without indulging in a wine tasting experience. Enjoy a selection of the best wines during your visit to the wineries. Usually, these are paired with local delicacies, such as cheeses and cured meats.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
If you are looking for outdoor activities, there are several routes around Lanzarote, and they include La Geria. You can take the routes in the town of Uga. This landscape will make you feel like you are trekking at the moon.
In La Geria there is a grotto called Cueva de Los Naturalistas. This natural monument is close to Masdache, and the underground gallery is 1600 metres long. Inside the grotto, it is possible to see solidified lava drops.
Besides hiking, outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy cycling tours, making for a perfect day of exploring the exceptional landscape.
Local Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, La Geria hosts a variety of local events and festivals that celebrate its wine heritage and Canarian culture.
If you visit Lanzarote between July and September, you will be able to see the grape harvest or Fiesta de la Vendimia. This is another peculiarity of the island, since it is the first in all of Europe.
The Vendimia allows visitors to witness the grape-harvesting process firsthand, sample local wines, and enjoy traditional music and dance.
Every year, in June, music arrives in La Geria with the Liquid Sound Festival. This is another place to taste the wine while enjoying live music. During the festival, there are buses around the island that can take you there.
Be sure to check local listings to catch any events during your visit. These events provide a deeper insight into the customs and traditions that make La Geria a unique destination.
The History and Landscape of La Geria
The history of La Geria is intricately linked to its volcanic soil, which has proven to be a perfect foundation for distinct grape varieties. This unique region has transformed its arid landscapes into a thriving viticultural haven.
The eruptions that occurred in the 18th century shaped the geology and the agriculture of the area. People who lived in Lanzarote were forced to find a new way to cultivate food and wine after these events. And this is how they developed innovative farming techniques.
That is how the hoyo was born. This is a pit carved into the soil where vines could be planted. This structure, which characterises the image of La Geria, protects the plants from the wind and creates a conducive microclimate.
La Geria’s Unique Vineyards and Wines
Traditional Volcanic Viticulture
Developing wine culture in La Geria has been possible by understanding the volcanic nature of the soil and how it can be harnessed. The techniques applied respect the environment and are committed to sustainable practices.
How is it possible to create quality wine in this arid land? The lava fields provide what is needed for vine growth.
The dark soil absorbs heat during the day and retains it at night. Pumice and ash provide the necessary drainage. Finally, the zocos created by farmers preserve moisture and protect the plants from the wind.
Grape Varieties and Wine Styles
Among the grape varieties grown in La Geria are Malvasia, Listán Blanco, and Negramoll. The most prominent of these is Malvasia, with which dry and sweet wines are created.
Top Wineries to Visit in La Geria
Bodega La Geria
One of the most famous wineries in Lanzarote is Bodega La Geria. This winery offers a guided tour of its vineyard estate and winery, followed by a tasting of several wines. It is a straightforward option if you want to combine the landscape, the winemaking process, and a wine tasting in a single visit. Book directly through its guided tour page.
El Grifo
While exploring La Geria, you can visit the oldest winery established in Lanzarote. This is Bodega El Grifo, which has been operating since 1775. El Grifo also houses a wine museum.
El Grifo’s Wine Lovers experience is a two-hour guided tour for adults, limited to 12 people and available in Spanish or English. It includes the historic chabocos (natural cavities in the volcanic rock used for growing vines), the Wine Museum, the family house and library, and concludes with a guided tasting of selected wines paired with Canarian cheeses. Book through the official reservation page: El Grifo Wine Lovers.
Bodegas Rubicón
Bodegas Rubicón offers three ways to visit: a free, self-guided tour of the winery, the old house and the wine shop; a guided tour focusing on the vineyards and the winery’s history, with a two-wine tasting; and a longer guided experience that also includes the modern winery and a tasting of three wines. The guided tours and tastings require advance booking. Check availability and make a reservation through Bodegas Rubicón visits.
Another experience offered by Bodegas Rubicón is a wine tasting in its shop. There are two options: an individual tasting and tastings for groups and companies. Individual wine tastings are available in the wine shop without advance booking. Group tastings require a reservation
When is the best time to visit La Geria?
The weather is good in Lanzarote all year long, so any time is great to go there and enjoy the island. If you are planning to go to La Geria and taste some wines, it is possible to do it all year long.
If you want to enjoy the music festival, then you must go in June. Liquid Sounds presents national and international bands, but the main attractions are the landscape and the wine that you can try during your visit.
Attractions near La Geria
You can combine the visit to La Geria with other attractions nearby. Some of them are Timanfaya National Park, Cueva de los Verdes, the Cactus Garden and Jose Saramago House Museum.
A visit to one of the wineries could take around two hours. After this you could head to another attraction around La Geria or, if you prefer, you can dedicate half a day to tour the vineyards.
What to know before visiting La Geria?
Here are some facts you have to know before going to La Geria:
- As you explore the vineyards and wineries, it’s advisable to dress comfortably and wear appropriate footwear. The volcanic terrain can be uneven and rough in certain areas.
- Additionally, don’t forget to bring sun protection, such as a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense in Lanzarote.
- Make sure you don’t leave any kind of waste out of place. Appreciate the harmony between the natural surroundings and human intervention, as La Geria strives to maintain its ecological balance.
- When indulging in wine tastings, keep in mind that Malvasía wines can range from dry to sweet. Engage with the knowledgeable staff at the wineries to discover your preferred style.
Exploring La Geria is a “must do” when you visit Lanzarote. Have you ever been there? Share with us what you like about this place.
Frequently asked questions about La Geria
Do you need to book winery visits in La Geria?
It depends on the type of visit. Many wineries allow free access to their shops, and some offer self-guided visits without the need to book. However, guided tours, tastings and food-pairing experiences usually require advance reservations.
Is La Geria worth visiting if you don’t drink wine?
Yes. La Geria is well worth visiting for its extraordinary volcanic landscape, black lapilli fields and photogenic vines protected by stone walls. You do not need to taste wine to appreciate the traditional farming system and learn how Lanzarote’s growers adapted their cultivation methods after the volcanic eruptions.
Sources:
- Lanzarote Film Commission – Cinema and Wine of Lanzarote
- El Grifo – Official website
- Moovit – Public transport to La Geria
Abdel Samouh is a tourism professional specialising in the Canary Islands, with a solid track record in visitor experience management on Lanzarote. His career has centred on promoting the island's landmark attractions and enhancing transfer and excursion services across this volcanic destination.
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