Tenerife’s northern coast, with its lush landscapes and volcanic terrain, holds many secrets waiting to be discovered by those seeking a deeper connection with nature. One such hidden gem is Playa Bollullo, a secluded black-sand beach located just a short walk from the bustling town of Puerto de la Cruz where many of our guests are accommodated. To walk towards Bollullo is more than just a walk; it’s a path to serenity, offering opportunities to nourish your mind, body, and soul.
To reach Playa Bollullo from Puerto de la Cruz, there are two primary options: walking or driving. For those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Tenerife, the walking route is highly recommended. The path, which winds through banana plantations and offers panoramic views of the coastline, is an experience in itself.
Begin your walk at the Lago Martiánez area, a famous landmark in Puerto de la Cruz. As you leave your hotel, head eastward along the coastal road towards El Rincón.
After about 15 minutes of walking, you’ll come across a narrow path leading you away from the main road. This route meanders through banana plantations, offering a glimpse of Tenerife’s agricultural landscape. The sweet scent of banana trees and the rustle of leaves in the breeze create a peaceful atmosphere as you continue your walk.
The path takes you along the cliffs, where you can pause to admire the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean stretching endlessly towards the horizon. With the sound of the waves crashing against the volcanic rocks below, you’ll feel a sense of tranquility setting in as you make your way closer to the beach.
As you approach Bollullo, you’ll begin a gradual descent down a dirt path that leads directly to the beach. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in some places.
The entire walk from Puerto de la Cruz to Playa Bollullo takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the views.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the striking sight of Playa Bollullo’s black volcanic sand, surrounded by rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The beach, largely untouched by tourism, feels like a sanctuary removed from the world. Its secluded nature means it’s often less crowded than other beaches in the area, allowing you to find your own peaceful spot along the shore.
Playa Bollullo is not a typical resort beach; it lacks commercial amenities like sunbeds or cafes right on the sand, which adds to its charm and offers the perfect environment for those seeking a break from the busyness of life. Its raw, natural beauty makes it an ideal location for meditation and mindfulness practices, offering a sensory experience that rejuvenates the body, mind, and soul.
Meditation Practices at Playa Bollullo
Playa Bollullo's peaceful environment, combined with the rhythmic sound of the ocean, makes it a perfect setting for meditation. Whether you are a seasoned meditator or just beginning, this beach provides the ideal backdrop for various types of meditation that will help you reconnect with yourself and nature.
Ocean Meditation
One of the most powerful forms of meditation you can practice at Playa Bollullo is ocean meditation, which utilizes the natural sound of the waves to bring calm and focus to your mind. As you sit on the black sand, facing the ocean, close your eyes and focus on the ebb and flow of the waves. Inhale deeply with the rise of each wave and exhale as it crashes onto the shore.
This simple practice helps you connect with the rhythm of the ocean, which can be a metaphor for life itself—full of cycles and constant movement. As you sync your breathing with the waves, you’ll notice your mind becoming more present, your body more relaxed, and your spirit more aligned with the natural world.
Grounding Meditation
The unique volcanic sands of Playa Bollullo offer an opportunity for grounding meditation, a practice that focuses on connecting your body to the earth. Remove your shoes and feel the cool, soft sand beneath your feet. Sit or lie down on the beach, and take a moment to become aware of the texture of the sand against your skin.
Visualize yourself becoming anchored to the earth, like the volcanic cliffs that surround you. With each breath, imagine your energy flowing into the ground and being replenished by the strength of the island. Grounding yourself in this way can help alleviate stress and anxiety, leaving you feeling more centered and stable.
Sunset Meditation
As Playa Bollullo faces west, it’s an ideal spot for a sunset meditation. Arrive in the late afternoon and take a seat on the sand, allowing yourself to watch the sun slowly descend toward the horizon. As the sky changes color, from bright blue to shades of orange and pink, you can use this time to reflect on your day or let go of any lingering thoughts.
Focus on the transition from day to night as a natural reminder of the impermanence of all things. This practice can bring a sense of closure and peace, helping you embrace the present moment with gratitude.
The Healing Power of Playa Bollullo
Playa Bollullo offers more than just a place to relax—it provides a sanctuary for holistic well-being, making it a powerful place for healing. The beach’s secluded location, coupled with the natural elements, creates an environment that allows you to reconnect with your inner self. Here are a few reasons why Playa Bollullo is beneficial for your mind, body, and soul:
Mind: The solitude and serenity of the beach help quiet the mind, making it easier to let go of stress and worries. The natural sound of the ocean acts as a calming influence, allowing you to enter a meditative state more easily.
Body: The soft black sand and cool waters of Playa Bollullo provide a perfect opportunity for grounding and rejuvenation. Walking barefoot on the sand can have a grounding effect, helping to balance your body’s energy. Additionally, swimming in the Atlantic’s fresh waters revitalizes the body and boosts circulation.
Soul: Playa Bollullo’s untouched beauty creates a sense of awe and wonder. The rugged cliffs and vast ocean inspire reflection on the natural world and your place within it, helping you feel more connected to the earth and to something larger than yourself.
