Lost & Found: A Glimpse into Lanzarote's Volcanic Beauty at El Golfo

 Sometimes, the best discoveries are accidental, and the most cherished memories are those we almost forgot. That's certainly the case with this collection of photos from a trip to Lanzarote back on July 30th, 2013. Armed with nothing more than my trusty Samsung Galaxy tablet, I captured some truly spectacular views around El Golfo and the famous Green Lagoon.

Looking back now, it's a little bittersweet. I wasn't initially planning to do anything with these pictures, and over the years, some have unfortunately gone missing from my archives. But the ones that remain are a vivid reminder of the raw, unique beauty of this corner of the Canary Islands.

For those who haven't had the pleasure, El Golfo is a small fishing village on the southwestern coast of Lanzarote, renowned for its dramatic volcanic landscapes. The real star, however, is the nearby Charco de los Clicos, or the Green Lagoon.

The remaining photos, even if incomplete, tell a compelling story. You can see the striking contrast between the black volcanic sand beaches and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Atlantic. The cliffs, sculpted by ancient eruptions and millennia of erosion, rise majestically from the shore, displaying incredible layers and textures.

I distinctly remember the feeling of standing there, taking in the panoramic vistas. The deep blue of the ocean meeting the rugged, dark earth; the powerful waves crashing against the shore; and that unmistakable, almost alien landscape stretching out before you. It's a place that truly makes you feel connected to the powerful forces of nature.

While the famous Green Lagoon itself (Charco de los Clicos) might not be explicitly highlighted in every shot I have left, its presence is felt in the overall atmosphere and the geological context of the area. The lagoon's vivid green colour, caused by a unique type of algae, is a testament to the island's volcanic origins and the mineral-rich environment.

You can also glimpse the charming, humble boats nestled on the black sand in some of the images, a nod to the local fishing community that calls this dramatic coastline home. It's a place where daily life coexists with breath taking natural wonders.

These photos, taken almost exactly twelve years ago, serve as a beautiful reminder of an unforgettable day. Even with a few gaps in the album, the spirit of El Golfo and its incredible, diverse landscapes shines through. It just goes to show, sometimes the most spontaneous captures hold the most enduring value.

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Ardrossan's Coastal Canvas: A Digital Remix of a Scottish Beach

Sometimes, a picture needs a little help to capture the full power of a moment. These two photographs are a perfect example of that. While the original shots of Ardrossan Beach were taken on a grey day in November 2013, a little digital magic has transformed them into something truly spectacular. By replacing the sky, the images now reflect the dramatic beauty that the Scottish coast truly deserves.

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A Beach with a View

Ardrossan, a charming town in Ayrshire, Scotland, is home to not one, but two beautiful beaches. These pictures focus on Boydston Beach, or North Shore, a stunning stretch of golden sand that curves along the coast. It's a place for quiet moments, whether you’re building a sandcastle or just taking a leisurely stroll with the sound of the waves in the background.

But the real magic here is the view. Looking out across the Firth of Clyde, the landscape is a majestic panorama. In the distance, the rugged peak of the Isle of Arran is just visible on the horizon, a constant, beautiful presence. Closer to shore, you can spot Horse Island, a bird-watching sanctuary with its iconic 19th-century tower. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the rolling hills of the Scottish mainland to the north.

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The Art of the Edit

These pictures show the power of combining elements to create a more compelling image. The beach photos were originally taken with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, while the dramatic, vibrant sky was captured separately with a Nikon D3300. Layering them together in Photoshop gave the scenes a sense of atmosphere and grandeur that the original photos lacked.

The result is a powerful vision of Ardrossan's coastal beauty, highlighting the raw, natural elegance of the area. It’s a reminder that even when the weather doesn't cooperate, a little creativity can help you capture the full spirit of a place.

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San Miguel: Discovering Ibiza's Tranquil Side

When you hear the name "Ibiza," your mind might jump to pulsating dance music, neon lights, and all-night parties. But tucked away on the northern coast of the island is a different kind of paradise, a place where the rhythm is set not by a DJ, but by the gentle lapping of the waves. Welcome to Puerto de San Miguel, a serene and stunning resort that offers a perfect escape from the crowds.

Originally a simple fishing village, San Miguel has grown into a cherished family destination. Unlike the more famous resorts, it has retained a quiet, unspoiled charm, making it a perfect spot for those seeking relaxation and natural beauty.

I had the pleasure of visiting in July 2014, taking a scenic boat trip along the coast from Portinatx to see San Miguel's hidden coves and crystalline waters. The journey itself was a treat, revealing a coastline of rugged cliffs and lush green hills.

Approaching San Miguel by sea, the first thing that strikes you is the beautiful bay, a perfect horseshoe shape cradled by verdant hillsides. The water is a magnificent mosaic of blues and turquoise, so clear you can see the seabed below. Small boats dot the bay, their white sails contrasting with the deep blue of the Mediterranean.

Beyond the main beach, the coastline reveals a more rustic, wild beauty. Exploring the hidden coves, you can find traditional fishermen's huts carved into the rocks, a testament to the village's humble origins. The blend of untamed nature and modern comfort is a part of San Miguel's unique appeal.

While I was there, I also visited the nearby Cova de Can Marçà, a spectacular network of ancient caves, adding a sense of history and adventure to the trip.

These photos, taken during my visit, capture the essence of San Miguel: the sun-drenched beaches, the shimmering turquoise sea, and the lush, green backdrop of pine-covered hills. It's a place that proves Ibiza has a soft, serene side, one that's just waiting to be explored by those who want to trade the club scene for a different kind of bliss. San Miguel is a reminder that the island's true magic lies in its stunning, natural beauty.

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Ardrossan's Golden Shore: The North Beach

Ardrossan, a charming coastal town in Ayrshire, Scotland, boasts not one but two delightful beaches. Today's pictures were taken on Boydston Beach or North Shore.

Ardrossan North Beach stretchers out in a welcoming curve of golden sand, perfect for picnics, sandcastle building, and leisurely strolls. Feel the sand between your toes as you wander along the shoreline, letting the sound of the waves lull you into a relaxed state. For the more adventurous, the beach offers opportunities for paddling, swimming, and rock pooling in the cool waters of the Firth of Clyde. Remember to check the tides and weather conditions before heading into the water.

The true magic of Ardrossan North Beach unfolds when you turn your gaze outward. The beach offers stunning views across the Firth of Clyde, the majestic Isle of Arran, its peak visible on the horizon, and Horse Island, a nearby bird-watching sanctuary with its iconic 19th-century tower. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the rolling hills of the Scottish Mainland to the north.

The beach is close to the town centre, allowing visitors to seek out the Victorian Promenade, and check out the town's rich maritime history by visiting the harbour. There are also a number of places to seek out refreshments nearby.

Ardrossan North Beach is a fantastic starting point for exploring the wider Ayrshire coast. Consider hopping on a ferry to the Isle of Arran for a day trip filled with natural beauty and historical intrigue.

For a dose of culture, head to the nearby town of Saltcoats and explore its art galleries and museums.

The pictures were taken with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet on the 28th November 2013. Clicking any of the images should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Capturing Lanzarote: A Novice's Cinematic Journey

 In 2013, during a memorable holiday to Lanzarote with my daughter, I embarked on an unexpected venture into filmmaking. While I was just beginning to explore the world of photography, videography was entirely new territory for me. Yet, armed with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, I was determined to capture more than just still images; I wanted moving memories of our adventures and the breathtaking landscapes we encountered. These short recordings are a testament to that initial, enthusiastic attempt.

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Panoramic Vistas from Peñas del Chache

Our cinematic journey begins high above the island at Peñas del Chache, Lanzarote's highest public viewing point. Though a slightly loftier, militarily restricted area existed nearby, the sweeping panorama from our vantage point – a restaurant car park – was utterly unobstructed. Standing approximately 670 meters above sea level, I filmed the mesmerizing descent to the ocean below. This particular clip was captured during an organized island tour, providing a perfect opportunity to immortalize the island's dramatic topography. Peñas del Chache isn't just a daytime spectacle; it's a magnet for stargazers. With minimal light pollution, the summer nights here reveal a celestial tapestry where the constellations of Sagittarius and Scorpius blaze with particular brilliance.

Underwater Wonders at Aquarium Lanzarote

Our next series of clips transports us to the fascinating depths of Aquarium Lanzarote, conveniently located in Costa Teguise, just a short stroll from our hotel. While not sprawling in size, the aquarium offered a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Beyond housing a diverse array of marine life, it thoughtfully emphasizes species native to the Canary Islands, providing a unique glimpse into the local underwater ecosystems.

Wild Encounters at Rancho Texas Park

The adventure continued at Rancho Texas Park, where my recordings capture some of its animal inhabitants. This popular park offers engaging daytime shows, including captivating displays by sea lions and majestic birds of prey – thankfully, not together!

The Volcanic Heart of Timanfaya

Finally, the concluding clip in this collection takes us to the raw, untamed beauty of Timanfaya National Park, an iconic symbol of Lanzarote's volcanic soul.

There are also some slideshow videos of the island that can be seen on my YouTube channel, just search Lanzarote on my clips.

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Whitby's Coastal Charm: Four Moments in Time

Imagine standing on West Cliff, the sea breeze on your face, gazing out over Whitby Beach. These four images, taken on August 25th, 2018, attempt to capture that feeling. From this vantage point near Whitby Pavilion, the view extends along the coast towards Sandsend, with the sturdy silhouette of Whitby Harbour Pier anchoring the scene. The Nikon D3300 SLR beautifully rendered the details of this North Yorkshire gem, preserving the essence of a perfect seaside day.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.