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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A Glimpse into Maritime History: Admiralty Pier, Dover Postcard

There's something uniquely captivating about old postcards. They're not just pieces of paper; they're tiny time capsules, offering a snapshot of a moment long past, a glimpse into landscapes, architecture, and daily life that may have changed dramatically. Today, I want to share a particular treasure from my collection: a vintage postcard depicting the iconic Admiralty Pier in Dover.

Looking at this sepia-toned image, I'm immediately transported to a bustling scene on the English Channel. The perspective from the pier itself stretches out into the vastness of the water, with the sturdy railings leading the eye towards the distant horizon. The details are what truly bring this image to life:

• The imposing structure of the Admiralty Pier: Built to withstand the relentless power of the sea, the pier itself is a testament to Victorian engineering ambition. Its robust construction speaks volumes about its purpose – to provide shelter and facilitate the vital maritime traffic of Dover.
• The lighthouse at the end: A beacon of safety for countless mariners, the lighthouse stands as a silent sentinel, guiding ships through the busy waters.
• Vessels in the background: Although somewhat indistinct, we can make out what appears to be a ship further out, perhaps a cross-channel ferry or a cargo vessel, highlighting Dover's role as a major port. The smaller structures in the water hint at the complex infrastructure needed to support such a busy maritime gateway.
• The vastness of the Channel: The sea itself, with its gentle swells, evokes the constant movement and energy of this critical waterway.

Why is the Admiralty Pier so significant?

The Admiralty Pier in Dover is more than just a pier; it's a monument to Britain's maritime heritage and its strategic importance. Its construction began in 1847, driven by the need for a deep-water harbour to accommodate the growing naval fleet and to serve as a vital link for cross-channel communication and trade. For decades, it was a hub of activity, witnessing the departure and arrival of countless ships, soldiers, royalty, and ordinary travellers.

Think of the stories this pier could tell! It would have seen:

• Victorian grandeur: The departure of well-dressed passengers on their grand tours of Europe.
• Wartime readiness: The comings and goings of naval vessels during various conflicts, especially the World Wars, given Dover's critical role in defending the realm.
• The evolution of travel: From paddle steamers to more modern vessels, the pier adapted to the changing face of maritime transport.

Dating the Postcard

While there's no precise date on the postcard itself, the style of the photograph, the sepia tone, and the general appearance of the vessels and pier suggest it likely dates from the early 20th century, perhaps between 1900 and 1930. This was a golden age for postcards, which served as both mementos and a primary means of quick communication. The "208/105" in the bottom right corner is a publisher's reference number, common on postcards of that era.

A Piece of My Collection, A Piece of History

For me, this postcard is more than just an image; it's a tangible link to a pivotal location in British history. It sparks curiosity about the people who walked that pier, the ships that docked there, and the events that unfolded against its backdrop. It serves as a reminder of Dover's enduring role as the "Gateway to England" and the sheer ambition and engineering prowess of generations past.

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Chasing the Light: A Coastal Hike to Far del Moscarter, Ibiza

In the summer of 2014, amidst the sun-drenched shores of Portinatx, Ibiza, I decided to trade poolside lounging for a coastal adventure. My mission? To hike to the iconic lighthouse, Far del Moscarter, a journey of approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from my hotel, Club Vista Bahia.

Let's be honest, the hotel wasn't exactly a highlight of the trip. While the sunsets were undeniably spectacular, painting the sky with fiery hues, the rest left much to be desired. Unmotivated staff, uninspired food, and a less-than-pristine environment contributed to a somewhat lackluster experience. (And, I've since heard it's closed its doors – hardly surprising!) But this isn't a hotel review; it's a tale of a rewarding walk.

Setting out along the rugged coastline, the heat was a tangible presence, but the allure of the sea breeze and the promise of panoramic views kept me going. A slight detour through a shady woodland area added an unexpected element of adventure, and after a brief navigational challenge, the stark white tower of Far del Moscarter finally came into view.

And what a view it was! Perched dramatically on the edge of the coastline, the lighthouse offered breathtaking vistas of the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. It's easy to see why this spot is so beloved.

Far del Moscarter, a beacon of light since 1977, stands tall as the highest lighthouse in the Balearic Islands, with a focal plane of 52 meters. Construction of this impressive structure began in 1975, and its design is refreshingly minimalist. Unlike many traditional lighthouses, Far del Moscarter was built as a fully automated tower, lacking any residential quarters. Its sleek concrete form, devoid of unnecessary embellishments, speaks to its functional purpose.

The journey to the lighthouse, captured with my trusty Polaroid is2132 bridge camera on July 9th, 2014, was a reminder of the simple joys of exploration. Sometimes, the best experiences are found when you step away from the predictable and venture into the unknown. 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 pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.