Discovering La Graciosa, Spain’s most secret island

“I don't think that anything happens by coincidence... No one is here by accident... Everyone who crosses our path has a message for us.” - James Redfield, The Celestin Prophecy

Just a couple kilometers off the island of Lanzarote, and off the northwest coast of Africa is La Graciosa, an oasis of peace in the middle of the desert.

After arriving by ferry at the port of Caleto de Sebo, I stopped for lunch at one of the few local seafood restaurants, Casa Enriqueta.

I started off with warm bread and red mojo (mojó picón) and green mojo (mojo verde) sauce, very typical of the island. Green mojo, made with coriander, garlic, olive oil and vinegar, is perfect with potatoes or grilled fish, while red mojo, made with dried red peppers, adds a spicy kick to any dish.

The waiter suggested I have the catch of the day, a white burrito fish, delicately grilled, served with a fresh salad and boiled potatoes.

As I savoured every bite of my meal, I noticed the serenity of the town, with its white washed walls and blue trims, unlike any Spanish town I’ve been to.

As a newcomer to the island, my host, Fiamma informed me that where I would be staying is on a part of the island that does not really have access to anything other than beach and nature! I would have to buy everything I would need for the week upon arrival at the local store, La Mar. The store has a small but high quality selection of local products, including a meat and cheese counter with local meats such as sobrassada, and queso fresco. The island also has a local bakery, with a selection of fresh bread, and local desserts such as Spanish flan. I picked up a loaf of fig and walnut bread for my stay.

After making my selection, I was greeted by Carlos, one of the island drivers.

After a 10 minute bumpy ride to the other end of the island, we arrived in Pedro Barba.

Fiamma explained to me that the town has only 20 inhabits, and is mostly secluded all year round.

My room was located just 50 meters from the secluded beach, with a small cove looking out onto the Salinas del Rio mountain range of Lanzarote.

The homes of Pedro Barba are small “Smurf-like” bungalows with white washed walls, palm trees, cactus plants, lined with cobblestoned paths.

After a quick swim, I lay on the empty beach and listened to the sound of waves crashing. As the air became cool I walked back to the room. After changing into something warmer, I headed on a sunset beach walk.

After finding a sandy spot, I sat down, breathing to the sound of waves crashing into the shoreline.

After heading back to the room, I was greeted by two furry friends. Two beautiful blued-eyed cats! Have you ever seen this before?!

This little one resembles me in animal form… a beautiful coincidence!

I settled down with a cup of chamomile and ended the evening with by reading “The Celestine Prophecy”. For those of you who have read this book, you’ll understand when I say I feel as if I am on a similar journey as John. In an unfamiliar place, full of self-discovery!