Things To Do
in San Bartolomé
San Bartolomé is a small inland town on Lanzarote that exudes rural charm amid a moonscape of volcanic lava fields. It sits near La Geria’s famed vineyards and is a convenient base for exploring the island’s dramatic geology. In the plazas and family-run eateries, Canarian traditions feel close and welcoming.
The town provides easy access to both the island’s interior volcanic scenery and its coastal highlights, making it a balanced starting point for a Lanzarote itinerary.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Bartolomé and settle into your accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets to get your first taste of local life. Stop by a traditional café to enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and a pastry.
Visit the Casa de los Volcanes to learn about the unique volcanic history of the island. Explore the museum exhibit showcasing the geological formations and the impact on local agriculture. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant serving local Canarian cuisine.
Head to the village square for a vibrant atmosphere filled with locals and visitors alike. Sample various tapas from different stalls while enjoying live music and entertainment. Conclude the evening with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the warm island ambiance.
Set out early for a hiking adventure in the nearby Timanfaya National Park. Witness the breathtaking landscapes shaped by volcanic activity as you trek along well-marked trails. Keep your camera ready to capture stunning views of unique rock formations.
Relax with a scenic picnic in the park, surrounded by nature. After lunch, take a guided tour to learn about the park's geothermal activity and see demonstrations of heat from the ground. Discover the flora and fauna unique to this volcanic region.
Return to San Bartolomé and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Dine at a cozy restaurant that specializes in local seafood dishes, accompanied by a glass of Malvasia wine. Enjoy the charming night sky as you stroll back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧁Cup of coffee | $2-4 |
| 🏖️Beach day (sunbed rental) | $10-20 |
| 🧭Museum or park entry | $5-12 |
| 🚗Rental car (per day) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet towns with authentic Canarian culture
- Stunning volcanic scenery and vineyard landscapes
- Limited nightlife compared to beach towns
- Some attractions require driving or guided tours
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
Places to Visit in San Bartolomé
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic sea of lava fields and volcanic cones; sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic light on the dark rock textures.
Circular stone-walled vine plots against a stark volcanic backdrop create iconic, photo-worthy landscapes.
A striking crater-lake against a rugged shoreline; vibrant greens contrast with dark volcanic rock.
A long volcanic tunnel with dramatic lighting and a sense of scale—great for abstract and shadow play.
Food in San Bartolomé
San Bartolomé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Wrinkled potatoes cooked with sea salt and served with green mojo (cilantro and parsley) or red mojo (paprika). Best enjoyed as a shared starter at local tavernas.
Must-Try!
A traditional salt-cod and potato stew, often served with gofio fried dough and a side of mojo.
A toasted corn flour used in porridge, stews, or as a flour for desserts; try gofio escaldado (gofio porridge) for a comforting taste.
A sweet almond and egg yolk dessert, commonly found in local pastry shops and restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small municipal market offering fresh produce, cheese, and baked goods; great for sampling local ingredients and chatting with vendors.
Casual stalls around the town center offering grilled seafood, empanadas, and sweet pastries; ideal for a quick bite while exploring.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Hola' or 'Buenos días.' Use basic Spanish where possible; English is understood in tourist areas.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and sacred sites; casual attire is fine for most daytime activities.
Shopfronts may close in early afternoon; meals typically start later in the evening, especially in smaller towns.
Safety
Tipping in San Bartolomé
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% for good service is common if service is not included. In casual bars and cafes, rounding up the bill is appreciated but not required.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; keep some cash for small markets and rural eateries. Some small venues may prefer cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very warm to hot days with high sun; plan for light clothing, hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Coastal winds can be breezy; interior can feel desert-like.
Warm days with cooler evenings; excellent for outdoor exploring and vineyard visits without peak heat.
Mild temperatures (often 60–70s F / 15–25 C) with some humidity. Good time for hiking and culture without the crowds.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora; ideal for hiking, photography, and outdoor markets.
San Bartolomé at Night
Hiking in San Bartolomé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A rewarding hike through volcanic terrain with expansive views from the crater rim.
Guided routes across the volcanic fields, offering dramatic lava formations and viewpoints.
Coastal ridges and scenic overlooks near the north coast with sea views and gentle climbs.
Airports
How to reach San Bartolomé by plane.
Main island airport with domestic and international connections; easy drive to San Bartolomé.
LARGE international hub; serves as an option for island-hopping or long-haul connections, accessible by inter-island flight.
Another island option with inter-island flights; useful for multi-island itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with strong family and agricultural traditions; warm and welcoming to visitors.
Seasonal and year-round visitors from the UK, Germany, and other European countries who contribute to local culture and economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular around the Canaries due to favorable winds and water conditions; several beaches nearby offer lessons and rentals.
Scenic routes through vineyards and coastal roads attract road cyclists and e-bikers alike.
Volcanic landscapes near Timanfaya and Caldera Blanca draw hikers of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Bartolomé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Canarian dishes rely on vegetables, legumes, and potatoes. When dining out, ask for mojo verde or mojo rojo on the side, request gofio or bean-based dishes, and opt for vegetarian versions of local stews when available.