Columbretes :: Comparisson reports

FLORA AND FAUNA

Worth noting, first, is the change in the islands’ flora and fauna. The Archduke mentioned the construction of the lighthouse and, as such, man’s arrival on the islands which had a great impact on the islands. Things would again change significantly when Columbretes Islands were declared a Nature Reserve. Similar trends, though with different motives, were seen on the Aeolian Islands, for example.

Also worth highlighting is the protection afforded to species at risk of extinction. In fact, this has implied limiting the number of daily visitors to the islands. Furthermore, the Nature Reserve staff habitually carry out dedicated studies and research.

In terms of flora, park staff pointed out the existence of two endemic species: Lobularia maritima columbretensis and Medicago citrina. As for fauna, Columbretes Island visitors should try to see the Eleonora’s falcons in flight or the phosphorescence of the scorpions when lit up. Visitors should also be sure to admire the islands’ underwater sea creatures. Lastly, if coinciding with the new moon, visitors should attempt to listen to the shearwaters’ song near midnight.

GEOLOGY

Worth remembering in this section is that Columbretes Islands can be compared with the Aeolian or Caimenes (Santorini) Islands which the Archduke referred to as the “burnt islands”. In this respect, Columbretes Islands are older than the Aeolian Islands. In the latter, the earliest remains (Strombolicchio) date back approximately 200,000 years, but the islands are still active. On Columbretes Islands, by contrast, the latest activity registered dates back approximately 130,000 years.

ARCHITECTURE

Small changes have taken place in the barracks, though significant remodelling has occurred in the lighthouse with the construction of a second storey. At the same time, the monument to the Virgen del Carmen was built on the southern end of Illa Grossa and some of the paths have been modified to facilitate docking.

LANDSCAPES

Illa Grossa

On Illa Grossa (Columbrete Grande in Spanish), Puerto Tofiño called our attention. From here, many of the islands’ marine species can be admired. Worth noting as well is the lighthouse, whether at night or during the day, and the southern portion of the island in which the majestic Mascarat stands out.

Ferrera

Worth noting is Ferrera’s silhouette, shaped like a saddle, and Bauzá islet with abrupt shapes and clearly marked strata on its northeast face.

Foradada

On Foradada special mention should be given to the hole which can be seen with greater clarity from the western side of the island. Also, the channel between Foradada and Lobo is beautiful due to both the rock walls as well as the underwater life. On the southern side of Foradada, a small cave as well as an underwater arch can be seen just a short distance from the former.

Carallot

The view of Carallot from the south is impressive. Also worth seeing from the western side is the hole as well as the other neighbouring islets.