Fourteen and half million years ago, Gran Canaria was formed in a mayhem of volcanic eruption. All over the island and archipelago, there are signs of the lava flow – but none as breathtaking as from its northwest reaches within Tamadaba Natural Park: the Dragon’s Tail.
It’s a bold claim, but I truly stand behind the fact that the stark zigzagging cliffs ending in the sea, visible at Mirador del Balcón, make for the single most impressive vista on the islands. The four perfectly formed pyramids are viewed best by descending the stone stairs onto the small balcony hanging over the sea.
As awe-inspiring as it may be, this remains one of the less traveled spots on the island due to its hazardous road and in the middle of the day no one else was there. GC-200 claims to be the most dangerous road in Spain, hugging the coast with sheer drops and serious switchbacks, one must be confident driving here.
The twenty mile path was built between 1934-1954 in unbelievably difficult conditions, prior to that the access to this gorge, once known as Seamen’s Pass – was only visited by the peasant shepherds who obtained the treasured lichens used in fabric die from the orchilla plants that grow here. Treat yourself to some exotic fruit to revel in the view with, and imagine driving this road every day as the vendor does.
With the modern day ease of access, the reward is well worth the risk.