A Journey Through Time: The Volcanic Heart of Lanzarote

As the train gently rolled into the station, I found myself in the quaint village of Yé, a place that seemed to have been plucked from the pages of a forgotten travelogue. The air was crisp, carrying with it the scent of the sea and the promise of adventure. I had come to embark on the North Volcano Trekking Tour, a journey that promised to unveil the lesser-known life amidst the volcanoes of Lanzarote.

Our guide, Alejandro, greeted us with a warm smile and an infectious enthusiasm for the island’s natural wonders. His background in geography added a layer of depth to the stories he shared, painting a vivid picture of Lanzarote’s volcanic past. As we began our ascent up the Volcan la Corona, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the raw beauty surrounding us. The vineyards, with their unique circular stone walls, stood as a testament to the resilience of the island’s inhabitants, who have learned to thrive in this harsh yet beautiful landscape.

The Dance of Shadows and Light

Reaching the summit of Volcan la Corona, I was greeted by the sight of an immense crater, a silent witness to the island’s fiery birth. The play of shadows and light across the volcanic rock was mesmerizing, a reminder of nature’s artistry. As we continued along the side of the volcano, Alejandro pointed out the 6km long volcanic tunnel, a hidden marvel that spoke of the island’s tumultuous geological history.

The trek took us through green valleys, a stark contrast to the barren volcanic landscape. Here, the air was filled with the scent of wildflowers, and the sound of birdsong accompanied our steps. It was a moment of tranquility, a pause in the journey that allowed us to reflect on the island’s dual nature - both harsh and nurturing.

A Tapestry of Life

Our journey culminated at the 500m high cliffs of Famara, where the view of La Graciosa and the other islands of the Chinijo Archipelago stretched out before us like a living tapestry. The cliffs, with their rugged beauty, seemed to whisper stories of the past, of sailors and explorers who had once gazed upon these same shores.

Descending into the valley of a thousand palms, we arrived in the charming town of Haria. Here, the pace of life seemed to slow, inviting us to linger and savor the moment. As I sat in a small café, sipping a cup of rich, aromatic coffee, I felt a deep sense of contentment. The journey had been more than just a trek through volcanic landscapes; it had been a journey through time, a reminder of the enduring beauty of slow travel.

As I boarded the train back to my next destination, I carried with me the memories of Lanzarote’s volcanic heart, a place where the past and present dance in harmony. It was a journey that had touched my soul, leaving me with a renewed appreciation for the timeless allure of exploration.