Keys to the Centres: the Routes
With a smoother relief than the north, the south of the island present a variety of landscapes and geographical features that offer a spectrum of forms ranging from the semi-desert of the "jable" area, the mountainous presence of the Macizo de los Ajaches or the famously stunning volcanic landscape of Timanfaya, which covers almost a third of the island's surface area.
South Route
For a better understanding of the Art, Culture and Tourism Centres, two main thematic routes can be identified: the North Route and the South Route. These are connected to an imaginary central ?axis? which, starting from Arrecife (the island's capital), would split the island in two.
Centres in the South
The following Centres are to be found on the South Route: the Casa-Museo Monumento al Campesino (House and Museum) in the geographical centre of the island; the Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains) in the very heart of Timanfaya; and, last but not least and as a focal point in the island's capital, the Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo (International Museum of Modern Art), in the Castillo de San José. In addition, we can include the prestigious Fundación César Manrique in the tour of the Centres; the organisation is situated in the "Taro de Tahíche", the artist's former residence.
Monumento al Campesino
Timanfaya
Montañas del Fuego
How can I visit the southern region?
The island's most popular beaches are to be found in the southern region. Those at Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca are the most remarkable, with the main tourist centres located around them; there you will find a wide variety of leisure activities and relaxation.
However, the more adventurous visitor can discover places of great natural beauty - like the area of La Geria ? or villages that have many attractions worth visiting, such as Yaiza, El Golfo, Tinajo, Mancha Blanca...
