On the beach: III

The north side of the island of Tenerife differs greatly from the south. It is rich and fertile and is covered in pine forests, banana plantations and vineyards. But the coast is seriously lacking in beaches. This, however, is compensated by something that nature has generously provided - natural pools!

On the northwest coast of the island, the town of Garachico used to be one of the main ports on the island. It was were ships loaded with wine and sugar would had off on their journeys to America and Europe. In 1706 this all ended when one of the nearby volcanoes erupted and buried the town and the port. The lava travelled across the land until it reached the sea.

El Caletón, Garachico

The lava formed channels as it cooled in the sea water. The effect of the contrast between the black rock and the blue ocean is dramatic.

Natural pool, Garachico

The tide washes into the channels and constantly renews the water in the natural pools that are safe enough to be used for swimming.

Hasta pronto!