Hiking in Tamaduste

The small fishing village and swimming spot of Tamaduste is just a short drive down the mountain from Villa de Valverde, where I live, so it is a great spot to soak up the sun and go for a dip on the weekend or after school. There is also hiking all around the north tip of the island, and a few weeks ago I did a little exploring on a very windy but beautiful day. There is a giant, picturesque rock called Roque de las Gaviotas, and it is a pretty easy hike from Tamaduste.

I was the only one on the trail, which was made almost entirely of loose volcanic rocks, full of little holes from the magma melting thousands of years ago. It was very different from the trails around Valverde -- it is always interesting to see how quickly the landscape changes on El Hierro!

The sea has been battering this coast for millions of years, and volcanic rock is pretty malleable anyway, so the entire shore is full of interesting little coves shaped by the waves, as well as sea caves that let you peek through to see the ocean view on the other side. I also saw lots of crabs scurrying about looking for limpets, small bugs, and algae.

There were several shrines along the path, with ceramic crosses and flowers in memory of someone lost around this area or at sea. Immigration is a key part of El Hierro's history because it has always been so small and it is hard to get an education or find a job when there is so little here, so there are many stories throughout history of husbands, fathers, sons, and brothers who went off to make their fortune and never returned.

The entire landscape is dramatic and very different from the beaches we often think of when we think of islands, but it is a gorgeous landscape nonetheless! A great way to spend a less-than-sunny day: exploring the north tip of this lovely island. :D

#Tamaduste #ElHierro #nature