Tuesday, 1st February 2011
It was a long drive west to the starting point just north of Santiago del Teide but the sun was out and we had good views of the coastline. Soon after we started walking the mist came in and we had some rainy spells. It was a good path with lots of variety: wide forest sections; rocky climbs and descents; woodland paths. Our route eventually brought us back to the point we had started from. Near here there was a café where we ate our lunch.
After a steep climb we continued on our route and managed to get some views of El Teide. The landscape became more volcanic until we were at a height where there were no plants growing. By this stage the mist had come in again and we had some more rain. After a brief stop at Arena Negros we made our way down to the road where we were picked up by the coach.
10.5 miles, 2,000 feet ascent, 5.5 hours
Scroll down to see photos of the walk
The view from the balcony outside my room
The weather looks promising as we head west along the coast
Garachico, where a volcanic eruption in 1706 destroyed a large part of the town and the source of its wealth, the harbour
It bounced back, however, and today is essentially a living museum in its maintenance of its cultural and historical character.
Near the start of the walk we have views of the sea in the distance . . .
but the weather starts to change as we climb higher . . .
and the mist begins to roll in . . .
and obscure views from the col
A narrow path takes us around the hill . . .
and we are treated to intermittent views
Collecting nets have been placed in areas of cloud to mimic heathers and other plants. The light drops of mist are trapped in the mesh and are collected in the water system
Information board
Pete explains the past use of the threshing floor
Leaving the contouring path we head through the laurel forest . . .
as the sun decides to show its face . . .
causing dappled shade . . .
and encouraging the growth of a few plants
Looking back over our starting point, dubbed 'The Lake District' !!!!!!!!!
We continue on the opposite side of the road . . .
and are pleased that Mount Teide has made an appearance
Following an fire many years ago this tree escaped destruction and is said to be the oldest tree in this area
Continuing on the path . . .
Teide stands proudly above us . . .
basking in the short-lived sunshine
All too soon we are back in the mist . . .
walking through the desolate lava sections . . .
with no plants other than trees
The sign welcomes us to . . .
a large picnic area
As we descend there are more signs of plant life . . .
increasing . . .
at lower levels
A chapel marks our 'pick-up' point . . .
and some of the group make the most of the seating