Wheelchair rental in Arrecife

Adaptability of Arrecife
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Discover Arrecife

Castillo de San Gabriel

Castillo de San Gabriel

Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo, MIAC, Castillo de San José | CACT

Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo, MIAC, Castillo de San José | CACT

Parroquia de San Ginés

Parroquia de San Ginés

Jose Ramirez Cerda Park

Jose Ramirez Cerda Park

Centro Comercial Arrecife

Centro Comercial Arrecife

Your Arrecife guide

Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, is a vibrant city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. With roots as a small fishing port, Arrecife has grown over the centuries into the administrative and commercial center of Lanzarote. Despite its development, the city retains its traditional atmosphere, with its historic center, beautiful beaches, and a wealth of attractions offering a rich cultural experience for visitors.

For tourists using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, Arrecife is a relatively accessible city, with many attractions, restaurants, and services adapted to facilitate access. In this guide, I'll offer a tour of the city's most important sites, anecdotes about its history, and useful tips to help you move around comfortably during your visit.

The name "Arrecife" comes from the volcanic rock reefs that dot its coast, forming natural barriers that protected ships from pirates during the 17th and 18th centuries. For many years, Arrecife was just a small port serving the town of Teguise, then the capital of the island. However, as trade grew and more inhabitants arrived, Arrecife developed and became the capital in 1852.

An interesting anecdote about Arrecife is its resistance to pirate attacks. In the 16th century, the island was attacked several times by Berber and European pirates. One of the most memorable attacks occurred in 1586 when the pirate Morato Arráez raided the city. As a result of these events, fortresses such as the Castillo de San Gabriel were built to protect the city, one of the attractions we'll mention later.

Important Places to Visit in Arrecife

  1. Castillo de San Gabriel
    The Castillo de San Gabriel is one of Arrecife's most iconic monuments. Originally built as a small fortification in the 16th century, it was renovated and expanded several times to defend the city from pirates. Today, it houses a small museum exploring the city's and the island's history.
    For visitors in wheelchairs, access to the castle is quite simple. A pedestrian bridge called "Puente de las Bolas" connects the castle with the city, and although some of the terrain around it may be a bit uneven, the main areas are accessible. The museum has ramps, and it's possible to move around easily inside the castle. Additionally, from the castle, you can enjoy impressive views of the coast and the Atlantic.
  2. El Charco de San Ginés
    One of the most picturesque spots in Arrecife is the Charco de San Ginés, a natural saltwater lagoon surrounded by small fishermen's houses and traditional boats. The Charco is the heart of Arrecife's old town and a perfect place for a peaceful walk.
    The promenade around the Charco is fully paved, ideal for moving around in a wheelchair or mobility scooter. There are several benches along the route, allowing you to rest and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Numerous accessible bars and restaurants are also available, where you can sample local tapas or have a coffee while watching the port's activities.
  3. Castillo de San José
    Built in the 18th century by order of King Carlos III, the Castillo de San José originally had a defensive purpose and served as a refuge for the population during pirate attacks. Today, it houses the International Museum of Contemporary Art (MIAC), exhibiting works by local and international artists.
    Access to the castle is adapted for people with reduced mobility, with ramps at the entrance and elevators connecting the different floors of the museum. The museum also has accessible bathrooms, and its restaurant offers spectacular views of the port of Arrecife. Even if you are not a fan of contemporary art, the architectural beauty of the castle and the views from its terrace make the visit worthwhile.
  4. Playa del Reducto
    For those who want to enjoy the sun and sea, Playa del Reducto is Arrecife's main urban beach. This beautiful beach of golden sand and calm waters is perfect for swimming or simply relaxing under the sun.
    The most important thing is that Playa del Reducto is fully adapted for people with reduced mobility. It has wooden walkways that reach the shoreline, adapted bathrooms, and accessible resting areas. There are also amphibious chairs available so that people in wheelchairs can safely enjoy the water. The beach is surrounded by a promenade with numerous restaurants and cafes, most of which are also accessible.
  5. Iglesia de San Ginés
    Located in the old town, the Church of San Ginés is the main church of Arrecife and one of the oldest buildings in the city. Dedicated to the city's patron saint, San Ginés, the church dates back to the 17th century and is known for its simple yet elegant architecture.
    Access to the church is possible for people in wheelchairs, although it's worth noting that the ground in the adjacent square can be slightly uneven due to cobblestones. However, most of the main areas of the church are accessible, allowing you to explore this important cultural and religious point of interest in Arrecife.
  6. Museo Aeronáutico
    For aviation and history lovers, the Aeronautical Museum of Lanzarote is an interesting visit. Located in the old terminal of Lanzarote Airport, the museum offers insight into the history of aviation on the island, with exhibitions of photos, documents, and objects related to Lanzarote's first flights.
    The museum is fully accessible, with ramps at the entrance and adapted bathrooms. The layout is simple, and the exhibitions are arranged in a way that can be viewed without obstacles.

Useful Tips for Wheelchair Users or People with Reduced Mobility

  • Adapted Transportation: Arrecife has several options for adapted transportation. If you are arriving from the airport, adapted taxis are available, which will take you directly to your accommodation. There are also bus lines that connect Arrecife with other parts of the island, many of which are equipped with ramps for easy access.
  • Adapted Accommodations: Arrecife offers a wide range of accessible hotels and apartments. Most hotels in the city center have access ramps, elevators, and adapted bathrooms. It's advisable to contact the accommodation in advance to confirm that they meet accessibility requirements.
  • Restaurants and Cafés: Most restaurants and cafés in Arrecife are accessible, especially those in the more touristy areas like Charco de San Ginés and Playa del Reducto. Many of these establishments have ramps and spacious areas to move around comfortably.
  • Public Bathrooms: In Arrecife, there are several adapted public bathrooms, especially near the main tourist attractions such as Charco de San Ginés, Playa del Reducto, and the castles. These bathrooms are well-signposted and easy to access.

Conclusion

Arrecife is a city that combines Lanzarote's rich history with modern tourist facilities. Whether you want to explore its cultural heritage, relax on its beaches, or enjoy its vibrant gastronomic life, Arrecife offers an accessible and enjoyable experience for all visitors. The attractions are adapted for people with reduced mobility, and the city has infrastructures that allow you to move around easily, making Arrecife an ideal destination for an unforgettable trip to Lanzarote.

Arrecife Tourist office

Here is the information about the main tourist offices in Arrecife, Lanzarote, and the one at the airport, including details on accessibility and contact information:

Tourist Office of the Casa de la Cultura Agustín de la Hoz
Located in the heart of Arrecife, this office offers detailed tourist information about attractions, events, and routes on the island. It is accessible for people with reduced mobility, with ramps at the entrance and spacious areas inside the office. However, it does not have accessible restrooms inside, but there are public restrooms nearby.

  • Address: Av. la Marina, 7, 35500 Arrecife, Lanzarote
  • Phone: (+34) 928 80 28 84 Ext: 1811
  • Email: oitcasadelacultura@arrecife.es
  • Hours: Monday to Friday: 08:00 - 14:00; Saturday: 10:00 - 13:00
  • Websitewww.arrecife.es


 

Tourist Office of Puerto de los Mármoles
Primarily serving cruise ship passengers, this office is located at Arrecife's cruise port. It provides maps, brochures, and details about island excursions. It is also wheelchair accessible, with ramps available. This office does not have accessible restrooms.


 

Tourist Office of Marina Lanzarote
Located in the Marina Lanzarote commercial and sports harbor, this office provides information on water sports, leisure activities, and events in Arrecife and Lanzarote. It is fully adapted for people with reduced mobility, including ramps and spacious access. There are also nearby accessible restrooms in the Marina area.

  • Address: Avenida Olof Palme s/n, 35500 Arrecife, Lanzarote
  • Phone: (+34) 928 80 28 84
  • Email: oitcruceros@arrecife.es
  • Hours: 09:00 - 13:00 (during cruise arrivals)
  • Websitewww.arrecife.es


 

Tourist Office of Lanzarote Airport
Located in the Arrivals Terminal at Lanzarote Airport, this office offers information for newcomers, including maps, car rentals, and details about tourist attractions. It is adapted for people with reduced mobility, with accessible entrances and restrooms at the airport.

  • Address: Arrivals Terminal T1, Lanzarote Airport, 35550 Arrecife
  • Phone: (+34) 928 820 704
  • Email: aeropuerto@turismolanzarote.com
  • Websitewww.turismolanzarote.com

All these offices offer maps, information on attractions, events, public transport routes, and activity recommendations on the island. For people with reduced mobility, these offices are equipped with proper access, although not all have accessible restrooms inside.

Transport

Airport:

Lanzarote Airport (ACE) is well adapted for people with reduced mobility, offering a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience from arrival to departure.

Accessible Access
The airport has ramps and accessible walkways to facilitate the movement of wheelchair users. Both the entrances and exits are adapted, with automatic doors allowing smooth, barrier-free access.

Assistance Points
One of the main services is the assistance point for people with reduced mobility (PRM), located in several areas of the airport, including check-in and arrival zones. This service, available under European regulations, allows passengers with reduced mobility to request assistance from the moment they arrive at the airport, helping with security control, waiting areas, and boarding the plane. It is recommended to notify 48 hours in advance.

Accessible Waiting Areas
The airport is also equipped with accessible waiting rooms, designed to allow wheelchair users to wait comfortably. These areas are distributed throughout the airport, ensuring that there is an accessible option at any point during the journey.

Adapted Bathrooms
The airport has adapted restrooms in all its terminals, designed to offer maximum comfort and accessibility to users with reduced mobility. These restrooms are spacious, with support bars and wider doors to facilitate wheelchair access.

Adapted Parking
Lanzarote Airport parking has reserved parking spaces for people with reduced mobility, located near the main terminal entrances. These spaces are clearly marked and provide the necessary space for maneuvering wheelchairs.

Accessible Transport
Additionally, adapted taxis are available at the airport's taxi stand, which can transport passengers with wheelchairs directly to their destination. Adapted public buses from the airport are also available.

In summary, Lanzarote Airport is well-prepared to accommodate people with reduced mobility, ensuring they can enjoy a comfortable, barrier-free trip. For more information or to arrange specific assistance services, it is recommended to contact the airport in advance.

 

How to get from the airport to Arrecife:

To get from Lanzarote Airport (César Manrique) to the center of Arrecife, here are the available options for a person with reduced mobility:

  1. Bus
    The bus is the most economical and accessible option for people with reduced mobility. There are two main lines connecting the airport with the center of Arrecife:
  • Line 22: Operates from Monday to Friday with a frequency of approximately every 25-30 minutes. The first bus departs at 7:00 AM and the last at 10:40 PM. The stop is located outside terminals T1 and T2. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes and costs approximately €1.40.
  • Line 23: This line operates on weekends and holidays with a frequency of every 60 minutes, following the same route from the airport to Arrecife.
    Both lines are operated by InterCityBus Lanzarote, which provides accessible buses with ramps for wheelchair users.
  1. Taxi
    Taxis are another quick and accessible option. The journey from the airport to the center of Arrecife takes about 10 minutes and costs approximately €15. There are companies that provide adapted taxis for people with reduced mobility:
  • Taxis Lanzarote Adaptados: Phone: +34 928 520 176, Email: info@taxislanzarote.com
  • Taxis Adaptados Lanzarote: Phone: +34 630 207 305, Email: contacto@taxislanzarote.com

 

Port:

The Port of Arrecife in Lanzarote is also equipped to facilitate the mobility and accessibility of people in wheelchairs or with reduced mobility, offering services that ensure a comfortable and barrier-free experience.

The port has adapted ramps and walkways, allowing passengers to access various port areas without obstacles. The main entrances are designed for wheelchair users to move around without difficulty, both on foot and by vehicle.

The port offers assistance for people with reduced mobility (PRM) for boarding and disembarking, ensuring access to ferries and cruises. Ferry operators like Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas provide this service, which should be requested in advance to ensure a smooth transit experience.

Adapted Waiting Areas
Waiting areas at the port are adapted for wheelchair users, ensuring all passengers can wait comfortably before boarding. These areas have reserved spaces and are accessible for everyone.

Adapted Bathrooms
The port has accessible bathrooms, equipped with support bars, wide doors, and enough space to maneuver wheelchairs. These restrooms are well-distributed and located near the main waiting and boarding areas.

Adapted Parking
The parking area at the Port of Arrecife has reserved spaces for people with reduced mobility. These spaces are conveniently located near the main access points to facilitate entry to the terminals and boarding areas. Additionally, the spaces are large enough to allow for wheelchair maneuvering.
 

How to get from the port to the center:

For a person with reduced mobility, there are several public transport options to get from the Port of Arrecife to the city center:

  1. Bus
    The bus lines passing through the Port of Arrecife are managed by InterCityBus Lanzarote. These buses are adapted for people with reduced mobility, equipped with wheelchair ramps and reserved spaces. The recommended lines to get from the port to the center of Arrecife include:
  • Line 1: Connects the port with various points in the city center and other areas of Lanzarote.
  • Line 3: This line also passes through strategic points in the city center, making it easy to reach various areas.
  1. Adapted Taxis
    Another option is adapted taxis available at the port, which offer accessible transport for wheelchair users. Here are two companies that provide this service in Lanzarote:
  • Taxis Lanzarote Adaptados: Phone: (+34) 928 520 176, 
  • Email: info@taxislanzarote.com
  • Taxis Adaptados Lanzarote: Phone: (+34) 630 207 305, 
  • Email: contacto@taxislanzarote.com


 

Transport within the city

In Arrecife, Lanzarote, there are several accessible transport options for people with reduced mobility or who use wheelchairs. Here are the available options:

  1. Bus
    Buses in Arrecife are operated by InterCityBus Lanzarote and have vehicles adapted for people with reduced mobility. The buses are equipped with access ramps and reserved space for wheelchairs, making public transport in the city easy.

Main lines:

  • Line 1: Arrecife - Puerto del Carmen - Playa Blanca. This line connects the center of Arrecife with other important areas of the island, such as Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca. It runs every 20-30 minutes and operates between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM. The ticket price is approximately €1.40 within Arrecife and increases depending on the distance.
  • Line 3: Arrecife - Costa Teguise. This line connects the center of Arrecife with the popular tourist area of Costa Teguise. Like Line 1, it operates with similar frequencies and is adapted for people with reduced mobility.
  1. Taxis
    Taxis are a convenient and quick option for getting around the city and are available throughout Arrecife. There are adapted taxis with ramps and space for wheelchair users.

Companies providing adapted taxis:

  • Taxis Lanzarote Adaptados: Phone: (+34) 928 520 176, 
  • Email: info@taxislanzarote.com
  • Taxis Adaptados Lanzarote: Phone: (+34) 630 207 305, 
  • Email: contacto@taxislanzarote.com
    The approximate cost of a taxi within Arrecife to other areas of the city is around €10-15, depending on the distance.
  1. Trains and Trams
    Currently, there are no train or tram services in Lanzarote or Arrecife. Buses and taxis are the main forms of public transport in the city.
  2. Maritime Transport Access
    As a port city, Arrecife also offers accessibility at the Port of Arrecife, where people with reduced mobility can use the adapted facilities for ferries and other vessels. The ferry companies operating in the port have services for people with reduced mobility, allowing for comfortable boarding and disembarking.

In summary, accessible buses and adapted taxis are the best transportation options for people with reduced mobility in Arrecife, while maritime transport facilities also offer accessibility.

Adapted beaches

In Arrecife, there are two accessible beaches that stand out for their facilities adapted for people with reduced mobility. Below, I provide all the details about accessibility and how to reach these beaches using public transport.

Playa del Reducto
Playa del Reducto is one of the most well-known and accessible beaches in Arrecife. This beach features a ramp for sea access, allowing people in wheelchairs to enjoy the water easily. Additionally, the beach has adapted walkways that lead directly to the sand area.
• Assistance and services: During the high season, the beach offers assistance for people with reduced mobility, ensuring that those who need help can enjoy their time at the beach.
• Adapted changing rooms: The beach is equipped with adapted bathrooms and changing rooms, as well as accessible showers for wheelchair users.
• How to get there by public transport:

  • Bus: You can take Line 1 of InterCityBus Lanzarote, which connects various parts of Arrecife with the beach. The buses are equipped with ramps and reserved spaces for people with reduced mobility.
  • Adapted Taxi: You can also opt for an adapted taxi. Two recommended companies are Taxis Lanzarote Adaptados and Taxis Adaptados Lanzarote, with phone numbers +34 928 520 176 and +34 630 207 305, respectively.

 

Playa del Cable
Located near Playa del Reducto, Playa del Cable is another beach accessible to people with reduced mobility. This beach also has ramps for sea access and wooden walkways to facilitate access to the sand.
• Assistance and services: Although Playa del Cable does not have permanent assistance, its facilities are well adapted, with accessible showers and bathrooms.
• Adapted changing rooms: There are adapted changing rooms and showers, allowing people with reduced mobility to change and shower without difficulties.
• How to get there by public transport:

  • Bus: Line 3 of InterCityBus Lanzarote takes you from the center of Arrecife to Playa del Cable. The buses are adapted for wheelchairs.
  • Adapted Taxi: The same taxi companies mentioned above also operate in this area, making access to Playa del Cable easy.

At both beaches, the facilities and services are designed to ensure that all visitors, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the environment comfortably and safely.

Neighborhoods / Areas

Charco de San Ginés

The Charco de San Ginés in Arrecife, Lanzarote, is one of the city's most picturesque and accessible neighborhoods, making it an ideal spot for visitors, especially those with mobility challenges. Here's a breakdown of what makes this area special and how it caters to wheelchair users:

This historic lagoon was once a small fishing port but is now a vibrant waterfront area with small traditional fishing boats and modern cafes. The entire promenade around the lagoon is fully accessible, with wide sidewalks, ramps, and a smooth surface that ensures easy navigation for wheelchair users. Visitors can enjoy the blend of traditional white houses and the serene beauty of the water while stopping at one of the numerous accessible cafes.

Heading south along the lagoon, you'll reach the Puente de las Bolas, a historic stone bridge leading to the Castillo de San Gabriel, a fortification dating back to the 16th century. While some parts of the castle may have uneven surfaces, the exterior area and its surroundings are designed with accessibility in mind. The views from the bridge, where the calm lagoon waters meet the Atlantic, offer a stunning contrast.

Continuing your tour around the Charco, you will encounter Parque José Ramírez Cerdá, a central green space in Arrecife. This park is known for its wide, flat pathways and wheelchair-friendly access points, making it a perfect place to relax under the trees. The park often hosts cultural events, which are also easily accessible, offering an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local life of Arrecife.

Close to the park is the Iglesia de San Ginés, a 16th-century church dedicated to the city's patron saint. While the plaza outside the church features cobblestone surfaces, which can pose a slight challenge, the entrance itself is accessible. The area around the church is a lively social hub where locals gather, offering a glimpse into everyday life.

Arrecife’s main shopping street, Calle Real, is a pedestrianized area with flat, even pavement, making it easy to navigate in a wheelchair. Along this street, you can explore various shops, from local artisan stores to modern boutiques, all within easy access due to the well-maintained streets.

Concluding your tour at Playa del Reducto, this beach is renowned for its accessibility features. The beach provides wooden pathways that lead to the sea, accessible showers, and adapted restrooms. During peak months, trained staff are available to assist visitors with mobility issues, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea safely and comfortably.

  • Flat, paved walkways throughout the Charco de San Ginés and nearby streets.
  • Ramps and wide access points at major tourist sites like the Charco promenade and Parque José Ramírez Cerdá.
  • Adapted facilities at Playa del Reducto, including beach wheelchairs for easier water access.

Getting to and around Arrecife is easy with accessible buses on lines 1 and 3, both of which stop near the Charco and the beach. Adapted taxis are also available for more direct transport.

In conclusion, the Charco de San Ginés and its surrounding area in Arrecife offer a seamless experience for people with mobility issues. With a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, all accessible through thoughtful urban planning, this neighborhood stands out as a must-visit for anyone exploring Lanzarote.

Adapted restaurants

Bar Picasso, El Almacén
Bar Picasso, located within the historic El Almacén, is a gastronomic space filled with culture and art. This bar combines its rich history with a culinary offer based on traditional Canarian recipes, accompanied by local wines. The artistic and cozy atmosphere makes it a unique place.
• Signature Dish: Among its most recommended dishes are Canarian tapas and fresh fish.
• Accessibility: The restaurant is fully accessible, with entrance ramps and adapted restrooms.
 

Contact Information:
• Address: Calle José Betancort, 33, 35500 Arrecife, Las Palmas
• Phone: +34 928 526 506
• Email: info@centrosturisticos.com


 

Restaurante Malecon
Restaurante Malecon specializes in Mediterranean cuisine and seafood, with a cozy atmosphere and views of the seafront. It is known for its excellent value for money and varied menu.
• Signature Dish: Seafood paella and Galician-style octopus are the favorites among diners.
• Accessibility: It has a fully accessible entrance and adapted restrooms for people with reduced mobility.
 

Contact Information:
• Address: Avenida Fred Olsen, s/n, 35500 Arrecife, Lanzarote
• Phone: N/A

 

Tasca La Raspa
This restaurant is known for its Mediterranean cuisine and tapas specialties. Tasca La Raspa offers a selection of dishes made with fresh local products, perfect for enjoying in a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
• Signature Dish: The fish tapas and patatas bravas are its most popular options.
• Accessibility: The restaurant has step-free access and adapted restrooms.


Contact Information:
• Address: Av. César Manrique, 35500 Arrecife, Lanzarote
• Phone: N/A

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