In 1977, César Manrique — the architect-artist of Lanzarote — transformed the seafront of Puerto de la Cruz into a complex of saltwater pools that resembles a giant sculpture. Seven heated seawater basins, an artificial lagoon of 27,000 m² with a central island, fountains, palm trees and white sculptures set against the Atlantic backdrop. Lago Martiánez is at once a public swimming pool, a work of art and a testament to 1970s architecture integrated into volcanic nature.
The insider tip: Come on weekdays outside July-August — locals go on weekends, tourists often skip it in favor of beaches. Much more relaxed atmosphere, fewer crowds, same water.
Born in Lanzarote in 1919, César Manrique is the most important artistic figure in the Canary Islands. His principle: integrate architecture into the natural landscape rather than impose it. In Lanzarote, he transformed volcanic caves into restaurants and cliffs into viewpoints. In Tenerife, he took a strip of black lava on the Puerto de la Cruz seafront and made it into Lago Martiánez.
The result respects Manrique's codes: organic forms, immaculate white, local materials, nothing that clashes with the environment. The basins follow the natural contours of the shoreline. The sculptures blend in as if they had always been there.
The complex is organized around a large central lagoon with an island. Around it, seven pools of different sizes — some for swimming, others for relaxation, one for children. The water is seawater, filtered and heated to 24-26°C year-round. Hot tubs (jacuzzis) are included with your ticket.
Terraces with sun loungers line the basins. A restaurant with sea-view terrace is open during opening hours. The Casino Taoro, also designed with Manrique's influence, is adjacent — the interior deserves a look even without playing.