Get ready to step inside José Saramago’s Lanzarote home—wander through his office and sunlit library, hear local stories from your guide, and take in volcanic gardens outside. Your ticket includes guided or self-guided entry and time to browse for souvenirs or books—a literary experience you’ll remember long after leaving “A Casa”.
We ducked out of the Lanzarote sun and into the cool shade of José Saramago’s house—honestly, I didn’t know what to expect, but right away it felt like someone still lived there. Our guide, Carmen, waved us in with a smile and pointed at a faded photo on the wall: “That’s Saramago with his cat. He loved animals more than interviews.” The air smelled faintly of old paper and lemon trees from the garden drifting in through an open window.
I wandered into his office—there was this battered desk covered in books, some stacked sideways, a few open as if he’d just stepped out for coffee. Carmen told us about the Nobel Prize day (“He was so nervous he almost forgot his speech!”) and showed us a shelf lined with portraits—Kafka, Proust, Tolstoy—all staring back at us. You could almost hear the scratch of his pen if you stood still long enough.
The library was newer, all white walls and sunlight slanting across rows of novels. She said he wrote his last two books here, which made me pause for a second—imagine finishing your life’s work surrounded by that much quiet. We peeked into the meeting room (there’s an engraving by Gao Xingjian on the wall; I had to look him up later). Before we left, I grabbed a copy of ‘Blindness’ from the little shop—they let you take photos everywhere except when kids are around.
We stepped back outside just before lunch, blinking in the bright light. The volcanic garden looked wild and peaceful at once—black stone paths winding between bursts of green. I still think about how ordinary everything felt, but also how much story was packed into those rooms. If you’re even half-curious about literature or just want something different to do in Lanzarote, this private tour is worth it.
You can book tickets online for either a guided or self-guided visit. Entry is included with your reservation.
Yes, all areas of the museum are wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.
The museum is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 13:30. Last entry is before closing time.
Yes, photography is allowed throughout most areas as long as no underage visitors appear in your photos.
Your visit includes ticket entry to José Saramago’s house museum in Lanzarote, with options for a guided or self-guided tour through his office and library; children under 16 enter free; public transport stops are nearby; and you’ll have time to browse souvenirs or pick up one of his books before you leave.
Do you need help planning your next activity?