La Hoya’s story is shaped by the history of its salt workers: the Caserío de La Hoya was established in the 19th century as a settlement for workers at the Salinas de Janubio, who had to live close to their workplace. Below La Hoya lie the salt flats, considered the largest in the Canary Islands. The area’s history and salt production are closely connected.

A place shaped by the history of the salt flats

Construction of the Salinas de Janubio began in 1895 and was completed around 1945. The origins of the workers’ settlement and the construction of the salt flats are therefore interconnected, though they mark different dates in the area’s history. Historically, the salt flats were also linked to fishing, salting fish, and the fish canning industry.

Traditional salt production and migratory birds

The Salinas de Janubio are still operated using traditional methods and are the only active salt flats on Lanzarote. Up to 70 species of migratory birds use them to rest and feed; the area is designated as a Zona de Especial Protección para las Aves (ZEPA). Salt production and bird habitat are two different ways of looking at the same place.

The Sitio de Interés Científico del Janubio covers 168.6 hectares within the municipality of Yaiza. It protects the halophilic, or salt-loving, habitat, the species associated with it, and the traditional salt production that continues there. Both the natural environment and the ongoing artisanal activity are therefore part of what defines the area.

A guided tour of the salt flats

The Salinas de Janubio offer a 90-minute guided tour explaining the sea salt production process. It takes visitors from the boiling pans through to the artisanal hand-harvesting of salt, and covers the hydraulic system, the mills, and the architecture of the salt flats. The tour also includes a tasting of “Flor de Sal Marina con Sabores de Janubio”.

If you plan to take the tour, check the reservation and access requirements before travelling. The stated duration of 90 minutes gives you a specific time slot for this part of your stay; be sure to check the current access requirements separately.

Routes and getting around

On the Ruta Volcanes, the route follows the LZ-703 to La Hoya and the turnoff to the salt flats. The Camino Natural de Órzola a Playa Blanca passes very close to the Salinas de Janubio. If you plan to walk or cycle this trail, check its conditions beforehand. A viewpoint is located in the area around La Hoya, on the road to Yaiza.

The options differ when planning your trip: the guided tour lasts 90 minutes, while a hike or bike ride on the Camino depends on the trail conditions you need to check beforehand. If you’re looking for a holiday apartment in La Hoya, comparing these options can help you decide whether to focus your stay on a guided introduction to salt production or time outdoors on a route.

Discover more destinations: Las Laderas, Teguise, Las Caletas, El Mojón, Máguez, San Bartolomé, Yaiza, Tajaste.

For the main travel overview: Lanzarote.