Peace and quiet

High above the noise and hub-bub of the town, high above Puerto de la Cruz, the tranquil gardens of Risco Bello.

Located near to what was the Taoro Casino on the edge of Parque Taoro lies these tranquil gardens, the only sound is that of the birds and running water.

Yesterday was a dull, cool day, spots of rain, dark clouds swirling round the mountains.

I thought maybe it was no longer there as a sign outside saying bar and cocktails. But to my relief it was still there, still run and owned by the two witches.

For 8 euros you can descend the path into the water gardens but this I do not recommend. Once praised by César Manrique as a ‘Green Area of singular beauty’, indicating that they must once have seen better days.

Risco Bello is the best kept secret in Puerto de la Cruz.

I was only there because I had taken a taxi to a junk sale at the nearby Anglican Church, and what a waste of time that was. I have never seen so much junk. It opened at noon, and by 2-30pm they were packing up the stalls. Could not even get a cup of tea. Nor was the church open!

I climbed down the steps to the town. The descent spoiled by a bright orange-red path!

I was in time for Mass at the Catholic Chuch. It seemd to be a special Mass for the Virgin Maria Carmen. Very surreal as drifting in the sounds of La Carnaval, which started Saturday.

I then found Bloko del Valle playing in Plaza de Europa.

Tags: puerto de la Cruz, Risco Bello