A Salty Adventure: Discovering the Salinas de Janubio

Our family has always been drawn to the unique and the historical, and the Salinas de Janubio in Lanzarote offered a perfect blend of both. As a museum curator, I am constantly on the lookout for experiences that are both educational and engaging, and this private tour promised to deliver just that. The salt flats, with their 127-year history, are the only ones of their kind in the Canary Islands, and I was eager to explore this living piece of history with my wife and children.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the vast expanse of salt lakes shimmering under the sun. The landscape was a stunning symbiosis of man, sea, and volcanoes, a testament to the island’s rich natural and cultural heritage. Our guide, Sabrina, an Italian with a passion for the history and ecology of the area, led us through the salt flats with infectious enthusiasm. Her bilingual skills made the tour accessible and enjoyable for everyone, including our children, who were captivated by her stories of the salt’s journey from sea to table.

Walking Amongst History

The tour allowed us to walk amongst the salt lakes, a privilege not afforded to those who simply view the flats from the car park. As we strolled along the paths, Sabrina explained the intricate process of salt extraction, a craft passed down through generations. The children were fascinated by the hydraulic layout and the mills used for extracting water, marveling at how such ancient techniques are still in use today.

We learned about the environmental significance of the salinas and their role in the island’s economy. The lagoon, a protected area, is a haven for birdlife, and with Sabrina’s guidance, we were able to spot ruddy ducks and black-winged stilts. The opportunity to climb one of the wind-powered water pumps offered us breathtaking views of the lagoon and the surrounding landscape, a highlight of the tour that left us all in awe.

A Taste of Lanzarote

The tour concluded with a delightful tasting session back at the buildings. We sampled not only the distinctive flavors of the local salt but also indulged in Lanzarote’s culinary delights, including local wine, cheese, and tomatoes. Each taste was a revelation, and the children enjoyed comparing the different textures and flavors of the salts.

As a parting gift, we received a complimentary packet of their salt, a memento of our visit that I look forward to using in our kitchen. The experience was not only a feast for the senses but also a reminder of the importance of preserving such cultural and environmental treasures. The Salinas de Janubio tour was a perfect blend of education and entertainment, a testament to the island’s rich heritage and a must-visit for any family exploring Lanzarote.