Volcanic landscape on Tenerife by Walter G. Allgöwer

A majestic moment: the first rays of sunlight bathe the volcanic landscape of Pico del Teide in an impressive palette of warm colours. On the ascent to Alto de Guajara, high above the clouds and in the middle of the barren but fascinating landscape of Tenerife, there is an unrivalled view of the solidified lava flows that run like dark veins through the wide, rocky plain. The rays of the dawning daylight gently lay on the volcanic rock and make the lava shimmer in luminous shades of ochre and brown. It is as if the sun itself is bringing the rough surfaces of the lava and the barren terrain to life.
The bizarre shapes and structures of the cooled lava flows tell of the powerful forces that were at work here thousands of years ago. Surrounded by this silent witness to the forces of nature, the air is clear and cool, a light breeze carries the smell of fresh stone and mineral earth. In this unique atmosphere, the world seems to stand still and the view of the Pico del Teide, which rises proudly into the sky, is like a window into another, almost unreal world. The overwhelming beauty of the scenery is a reminder of how powerful and sublime nature can be.