Tao in Lanzarote: Volcanic Landscapes, Hiking Trails and Canarian Culture

Tao is predominantly agricultural in character and also has a strong tradition of Canarian wrestling, an indigenous sport. On clear days, Tao offers panoramic views of Nazaret, Las Laderas, Tahíche, Teguise, the Risco de Famara and La Graciosa in the background.

Landscape

Centuries ago, Tao was covered by lava during a volcanic eruption. The triple eruption of 1824 led to the formation of the Volcán de Tao.

The Peñas de Tao feature numerous boulders reaching heights of more than 30 metres. The Peñas de Tao are primarily of volcanological interest and secondarily of geomorphological interest, and they also possess considerable landscape value.

The slopes of the Volcán de Tamia are covered, especially in winter, with small flowers endemic to the island. The crater of the Volcán de Tamia is considered accessible without major difficulty.

This results in several distinct focal points for experiencing the landscape: striking rock formations, volcanological connections, seasonal flowers and a crater offer different perspectives within the same local area. The panoramic view also complements these geological impressions with an expansive vista across several named places and landscape areas.

Trails

The Jable de Tao has marked trails that are easy to walk or cycle. A linear hiking route begins in Tao and leads to Mancha Blanca. The hiking route from Tao to Mancha Blanca passes through Tiagua, La Vegueta, Liria and Tinache before reaching Mancha Blanca. It runs through varied landscapes and past several villages.

When planning your own day, the marked trails in the Jable and a linear route through several villages can be considered different types of route.

The trail information therefore distinguishes between marked routes in the Jable and a specifically described route to Mancha Blanca. On the linear route, the villages mentioned can be understood as successive reference points, while the trails in the Jable are additionally described explicitly as suitable for walking and cycling.

Agriculture

The Jable de Tao served the inhabitants of Tao for many years as a source of food and prosperity. Sweet potatoes, pumpkins and pulses such as lentils were traditionally grown in the Jable de Tao.

Agriculture thus appears not only as a general characteristic of the area, but also as a specific use of the Jable. The traditional crops illustrate the role this landscape area played for many years in providing food and prosperity for the inhabitants of Tao.

More local area pages: La Hoya, Las Cabreras, Mozaga, Montaña Blanca, Caleta De Caballo, Haria, Arrecife, Lanzarote

Culture

The Ermita de Tao at Plaza de Tao in Tao/Teguise is listed under protection level 1 as part of the historic and artistic cultural heritage.

The Iglesia de San Andrés in Tao was built at the beginning of the 17th century. Its altarpiece and religious artwork are considered noteworthy; the roof structure is in the Mudéjar style.

The Fiestas de San Miguel in Tao are local celebrations dedicated to Saint Michael. At the celebrations announced in Tao in honour of San Miguel, a procession was scheduled for the 29th.

Back to the higher-level travel overview: Lanzarote.