Lanzarote’s volcanic setting, strict building laws and César Manrique’s artistic influence make its homes unlike anywhere else in Spain. If you’re considering buying on the island, this guide explores the different property types in Lanzarote, from apartments to cave houses.
Touch down in Lanzarote and you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve landed on another planet. The island’s volcanic landscape looks almost Martian – black earth and hardened lava flows interspersed with cacti and occasional bursts of bougainvillea.
Inland, the views stretch for miles to the Atlantic, uninterrupted by high-rise buildings. That’s no accident. Unlike the mainland Spanish costas, where wall-to-wall apartment towers line the beaches, Lanzarote has stuck firmly to low-rise development. The island’s building codes – inspired by the artist César Manrique – keep everything in proportion, with no home rising higher than three storeys.
For buyers, this means Lanzarote property doesn’t just offer a home in the sun, but a place shaped by design rules unlike anywhere else in Spain.
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What makes Lanzarote homes so unusual?
- Design restrictions – due to César Manrique’s influence, most homes are painted white with green or blue shutters, blending into the volcanic backdrop.
- Volcanic landscape influence – properties often incorporate lava stone or even sit within volcanic bubbles.
- Flat roofs – traditional Canarian houses have flat roofs, once for drying crops, today for roof terraces.
- Few high-rises – the skyline is carefully protected. Even the biggest resorts are free of tower blocks.
- Outdoor living spaces – homes often centre on terraces, patios and courtyards designed for year-round sunshine.
Who is César Manrique?
Born in 1919, César Manrique was Lanzarote’s most famous artist, architect, and environmentalist. After studying art in Madrid in the 1960s, he moved to New York, where he lived for two years. He returned to Lanzarote in 1966 – just when the island’s tourism industry was developing. Believing that architecture should blend with nature rather than dominate it, he convinced local authorities to protect the island’s natural beauty. Because of his vision, Lanzarote has a skyline that sets it apart from much of coastal Spain.
His legacy is everywhere: the Jameos del Agua, where a lava tunnel became a cultural centre; the Mirador del Río, cut into a cliff to overlook La Graciosa island; and his own Volcano House in Tahíche, which makes spectacular use of underground lava bubbles.
Cave houses and volcanic bubble homes
If you want the most unusual property in Lanzarote, cave houses are it – though they are very rare. Inspired by Manrique’s own home, some buyers have created modern homes carved into volcanic bubbles or caves. Their natural insulation keeps them cool in summer and warm in winter.
Where to find them: Inland villages like Máguez in the north of Lanzarote.
Apartments and bungalows in resorts
Apartments are the most common holiday-home choice. Bungalows – low-rise ground-floor apartments with a terrace – are also popular, particularly in complexes with communal pools. These properties often come with a VV licence, meaning you can rent them legally to tourists.
Where to find them: Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise.
Traditional Canarian houses (casas rurales)
Casas rurales are village houses built in traditional Canarian style – whitewashed walls, flat roofs, wooden beams and enclosed courtyards. Many date back generations and offer real authenticity. Renovated versions often combine traditional style with modern comforts.
Where to find them: Inland towns and villages such as Haría, San Bartolomé and Teguise.
Restored farmhouses (fincas)
A finca is a farmhouse, often surrounded by land. In Lanzarote, fincas tend to be built from volcanic stone and can be large, multi-room homes with outbuildings. Restored fincas are popular with buyers who want privacy, space and a connection to rural life.
Where to find them: Villages around Tinajo, Yaiza and the wine country of La Geria.
Detached villas with pools
In resort areas, detached villas are the go-to choice for families and long-term relocators. They usually come with private pools, terraces and sea views. Villas in Playa Blanca are especially sought-after, with some overlooking the Papagayo beaches.
Where to find them: Playa Blanca, Puerto Calero and Puerto del Carmen.
Eco-homes and sustainable builds
New construction is limited, but when it happens it often follows Lanzarote’s eco-friendly spirit. Expect solar panels, water recycling, natural insulation and modern design that respects the volcanic setting. These homes appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
Where to find them: Newer developments near Arrecife and Playa Blanca.
Townhouses on small complexes
Townhouses in Lanzarote are typically part of small, gated complexes, sometimes with shared pools and gardens. They suit buyers who want more space than an apartment but less upkeep than a detached villa.
Where to find them: Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen.
