Drawbridge

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Description

If you’re drawn to the captivating city of Arrecife in Lanzarote, the Drawbridge on Av. Coll is one attraction you shouldn’t overlook. This historical site stands as a testament to the rich past of the island, serving not just as a passage, but as a symbol of Arrecife’s strategic importance through the centuries. When you first approach the Drawbridge, you’ll notice its solid structure stretched across sparkling waters, directly adjoining the iconic Castillo de San Gabriel, one of Lanzarote’s well-preserved fortresses.

What makes the Drawbridge unique is its multifaceted appeal. Whether you’re passionate about history, interested in architecture, or just looking for an atmospheric spot to snap some photos, you’ll find yourself lingering here. Children are usually delighted by the bridge’s old-fashioned chains and the idea that it was once raised and lowered to protect the city from pirates and invaders. Walking along the creaky wood under Lanzarote’s bright sun feels like stepping into a living museum, with the sea breeze and distant sounds of the town creating an immersive backdrop.

On my last trip, I began and ended my day nearby, watching locals fish from the stone walls and admiring how the changing light transformed both the bridge and the castle. Drawbridge isn’t just a quick photo-op—it’s a window into the story of Arrecife, full of small details that reveal themselves as you linger and look a little closer.

Key Features

• Historical Architecture: The bridge features classic drawbridge mechanisms, including visible chains and pulleys, preserved to showcase how it functioned centuries ago.
• Connection to Castillo de San Gabriel: It directly links the bustling promenade of Arrecife with the island’s impressive San Gabriel Castle, offering ease of access for visitors.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Wide, safe walking areas make it accessible and entertaining for children, who love imagining the bridge in action.
• Scenic Views: Panoramic views of the sea, cityscape, and distant mountains—perfect for photography, especially around sunset.
• Interactive Experience: The presence of old nails, bolts, and stones encourages tactile exploration, connecting you physically to Lanzarote’s past.
• Plaques & Information Boards: Find explanatory panels (mostly in Spanish, but easy to interpret) that narrate the history and function of the drawbridge and the surrounding defenses.
• Local Flavor: Street vendors and artists occasionally set up nearby, creating a lively backdrop and a great opportunity to observe daily life in Arrecife.

Best Time to Visit

Timing makes a difference at the Drawbridge. In my experience, the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon are the most enjoyable. The sunlight softens, casting dramatic shadows across the stones and water—ideal for photographers or anyone seeking a quiet place to take in the view. Mornings tend to be peaceful, with fewer tourists and cooler temperatures, making it a pleasant spot for families, especially if you’re traveling with young children eager to run around safely.

During mid-day, the area gets busier, and the sun can be intense, especially in the summer months. If you’re visiting then, I recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, and some water. There’s often a refreshing breeze off the water, but a bit of shade goes a long way.

Holiday periods and weekends see a livelier atmosphere, with more locals enjoying strolls and socializing. If you want to experience Drawbridge as a living, breathing part of the city, weekend late afternoons are wonderful. For quieter, more contemplative moments—perhaps to sketch, journal, or just relax—try weekday mornings.

How to Get There

Reaching Drawbridge in Arrecife is straightforward, whether you’re based in town or visiting Lanzarote for the day. The landmark is centrally located along Avenida Coll, a prominent waterfront avenue that’s easy to find on foot from anywhere in downtown Arrecife.

If you’re coming by public transportation, the city’s main bus station is about a 10-15 minute walk away. Several city bus lines stop on or near Avenida Coll—just alight at the stop closest to San Gabriel Castle and follow the pedestrian signs.

For drivers, street parking is available, although it fills up quickly during weekends or festivals, so arriving early is wise. There are a few public parking lots a little further out, with a scenic stroll leading you past the harbor and into the heart of old Arrecife.

Cyclists will find the area accessible by bike, with dedicated lanes along main roads. It’s a gentle ride in from most neighborhoods, and you can safely lock your bike nearby while you explore on foot.

Visitors arriving from cruise ships or ferries can easily walk here within 20-30 minutes, making Drawbridge a convenient stop on a wider tour of the city’s maritime sights, including the San José Castle and Charco de San Ginés.

Tips for Visiting

Having explored the Drawbridge on several occasions, there are a handful of handy tips I’d share with any fellow traveler planning a visit to this unique Arrecife attraction:

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The bridge itself and the paths leading to it are made of old stone and wood, sometimes uneven underfoot. Good walking shoes will make your visit more enjoyable, especially if you plan to explore the nearby castle or the historic center as well.
• Bring a Camera: Between the atmospheric structure of the drawbridge, the striking outline of Castillo de San Gabriel, and the changing reflections on the water, you’ll want to capture a few memories. Morning and evening light are especially photogenic.
• Travel with Kids: Younger visitors love imagining pirate stories on the bridge—encourage them to look for details like the heavy iron nails and rope mechanisms. The area is open and pedestrian-friendly, but do keep an eye near the water’s edge.
• Learn Some History: Take time to read any available information boards, or even bring along a guidebook for extra context. The role of the Drawbridge in defending Lanzarote from past invasions is fascinating and not always covered in broader tourist materials.
• Stay for Sunset: If your schedule allows, the bridge is at its best as the sun dips below the horizon. Locals gather nearby with snacks and drinks, and the ambiance becomes relaxed and picturesque—a perfect way to wind down your exploration of Arrecife.
• Respect Preservation Efforts: The Drawbridge is a protected historical site, so try to tread lightly. Don’t remove any loose stones or nails, and always supervise children closely to help keep the structure in good condition for future generations.
• Combine with Nearby Attractions: Plan your visit in tandem with a walk around Castillo de San Gabriel or stroll over to the lively Charco de San Ginés, a picturesque lagoon ringed with restaurants and cafes—all within easy walking distance.

Without a doubt, the Drawbridge of Arrecife remains one of the city’s most atmospheric historical attractions—steeped in stories, ideally situated for exploration, and accessible for families and solo travelers alike. Whether you spend a few minutes or linger for hours, the bridge offers an authentic taste of Lanzarote’s past and present, right at the heart of the city.