Orzola is situated right at the northern end of Lanzarote and provides passage to the island of La Graciosa and the other islets that make up the Chinijo Archipelago, a protected marine reserve.
The harbour, which is currently being improved, serves as both a home for the tiny local fishing boats and the departure-point for the ferries going to the small neighbouring island of La Graciosa.
In addition to its function as the ferry gateway to the neighbouring island of La Graciosa, Orzola is best known for its striking white sand beaches. Which are composed of much lighter grains than the golden or black sand beaches found to the south the island.
You have a few restaurants available which serves seafood, and they are located on the frontline near harbour.
The ferry crossing to La Graciosa takes just under half an hour but when you visit the island you enter what seems to be another age, La Graciosa seems to exist in a time warp, with no roads, no cars apart from a few 4×4 taxis and only 600 permanent residents. All of whom reside in the small sea front town of Caleta del Sebo, which is also functions as the islands ferry port and harbour.
A visit to La Graciosa makes for an excellent day trip as there are some really superb beaches here, such as Playa de Las Conchas, which is widely regarded as one of the most stunning stretches of sand in the Canaries.
Chinijo Archipelago
The Chinijo Archipelago comprises the islands of La Graciosa, Alegranza, Montaña Clara, Roque del Este and Roque del Oeste.
Roque del Este and Roque del Oeste are not suitable to visit as they are sheer promontories with little in the way of embarkation points.
Montaña Clara and Alegranza are privately owned but due to being part of the Marine Reserve, the families who own them are not permitted to do any building work or change the terrain in any way.
The best way to see the Chinijo Archipelago is by taking an organised boat trip that navigates Montaña Clara, Alegranza and La Graciosa. Alegranza and Montaña Clara both have a wealth of bird life, which is one of the main reasons why the area has been declared a Marine Reserve. Alegranza has the interesting sight of a roofless volcanic tunnel, which the boat travels into. After touring these two islands which are uninhabited, the vessel heads towards La Graciosa, travelling to the far side of this island so that passengers can see the beach of La Concha.
