THIS WIND HAS ITS HIDEAWAYS TOO

Montaña Pelada is the cherry on the cake, the crowning glory of a sequence of beaches beginning at La Tejita that make El Médano on the Granadilla coast one of the top areas in south Tenerife for all types of swimming. Situated at the far end of a quiet residential area, next to the hill that gives it its name and provides shelter and a different atmosphere, this little cove combines pristine nature and other virtues, a sense of youthful freedom, easy access, nearby parking and the perfect conditions (waves permitting) for a day at the beach with the whole family. However, for this to happen the wind needs to behave, even if Montaña Pelada itself is the product of that same sea breeze, a wild embrace that kicks up the sand, creates a variety of dunes and conditions a day spent in and out of these Atlantic waters.

El Médano is one of the few spots in south Tenerife that have succeeded in perfecting a sustainable and young form of tourism while at the same time retaining a village flavour, its traditions and quirkiness coexisting with a very uplifting cosmopolitanism. It also boasts one of the best ranges of beaches in the Canaries. Admittedly, a feature of these beaches is the constant wind that has given rise to a vibrant and refreshing water sports industry that hinges on the whims of Aeolus, who seems to have his own preferences. The wind that blows on La Tejita, for example, is very different to that on the Leocadio Machado beach and, in particular, the beach featured in these lines: Montaña Pelada, where the God of the Winds seems to calm down or at least offer a more subtle and gentle embrace, like that of a true lover.

Situated on the far left of the aforementioned range of beaches, near the giant wind turbines and new industrial port, and close to a quiet residential development of villas and a small hill bathed by the Atlantic, this little beach is very different. Compared to other local beaches, it requires a change of mindset and is ideal for the whole family, provided that the wind and sea conditions allow.

Getting there is easy. From the centre of the town of El Médano, you head left on the road that runs parallel to the shore. When you reach the residential area, you will find plenty of places to park and the beach and its famous little hill are already in view. This ochre-coloured hill, buffeted by wind and salt for thousands of years, presents rugged terrain all the way down to the sea except for the black sand section.

The sand can often be blown as far as the road and makes the walk down to the beach easier. It also forms dunes, some with quite steep slopes, and is surprisingly clean and warm. Here, there is a feeling of shelter, protection and enclosure.

The sea usually allows pleasant swims although extra care is required when conditions are rougher and the currents are clearly visible.

At high tide the water can often cover much of the foot of the hill, forcing beachgoers to find parts with more sand, in many cases taking advantage of spots created with small pebbled walls left by previous visitors. The sun tends to be strong all year, although the hill casts some shade on the beach in the morning.

At low tide, the beach becomes much bigger and flatter and is ideal for ball games. Even though suitable for all ages and almost all tastes, it is rarely very busy.

Lots of surfers (on bodyboards) can be seen here on many days and this sense of freedom is confirmed by the presence of occasional nudists in what is a largely tolerant and friendly atmosphere.

A further attraction is the chance to walk along the shore in the direction of the new port. This is possible at low tide and preferably when the sea is very calm. Along the way you will find many spots to have a dip or jump into the water, as well as various rockpools and coves that add to the mystique of Montaña Pelada.

A hill with a beach that is loved and embraced by Aeolus in a very special way.