La Gomera

Shelena
Phil Scourfield
Tue 6 Oct 2015 13:30
28;05.36N 017;06.48W

6th October, 2015

We only glad to leave La Palma because it was too hot. The marina was
sweltering with no breeze. Oddly, the marina was also one where there was
swell. The result is to cause Shelena to strain against her warps in a
motion not unlike being at sea in as much is causes a sort of roll. Rather
uncomfortable, and not at all desirable. This was a great shame because
other than that we were parked right beside the small very well kept capital
city of Santa Cruz.

Arrival at La Gomera was an easy hop of only 50 or so miles. The marina was
again very well situated by the capital city of San Sebastion, the marina
had no swell and we now had the benefit of a nice northerly breeze. We had a
good day when things seemed to go our way. As an example, we went out to
find a restaurant and actually found the one recommended by marina staff.
Moreover, as we were gazing at their menu and thinking, yes, this looks
good, we became aware that several groups of people were milling around us.
It became apparent that the restaurant was just opening at 2000 for the
evening and it was first come, first served. We were seated in one of half a
dozen tables, and suddenly the place was full and we were enjoying Sangria,
and Gin and tonic respectively. We had literally stumbled in as the place
opened and the food good.

Once we start renting a car we can't stop. Off to the rental and we cover
the island next day driving about 90Km. Again, like La Palma, Madeira and
Port Santo the terrain was volcanic with deep ravines and breath taking
landscapes. For walkers this must be paradise. There are walks everywhere
marked at the road edge taking hiking to serious levels where the walks run
for 10 or more Km on hilly terrain. The information centres are excellent.
We even learned that indigenous folk communicate in a language that is what
we would all refer to as whistling. These people settled the land grazing
sheep and goats and whistling was the means to keep in communication. "What
is that I hear you say? Have you lost a sheep?" Answer, "no, but my
neighbour has". "OK, I have an extra sheep in my flock and will look after
it". That was what the film conveyed. Astonishingly, man traverses the steep
mountains by use of a long pole about 3 metres long and uses it to slide
down the mountain from rock to rock. Amazing what you learn.

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