What secrets does Montana Fraile hold? This mountain stands tall on the Jandia peninsula in Fuerteventura. It beckons adventurers and dreamers alike.
Montana Fraile is quite the sight. You can see it from almost anywhere on the Jandia peninsula. Its peak rises sharply from Playa Cofete. The climb from that side is too steep for most hikers. But don’t worry, there’s another way.
Let’s explore the back of Montana Fraile. Here, a narrow ridge leads to the summit. It’s a walkable path offering stunning views. But there’s something peculiar about it. A trail appears from nowhere. Then, it vanishes again. Was it once a pirate lookout? Perhaps.
Imagine standing on Montana Fraile’s summit. It is a small plateau at 706 meters. The view is gigantic. It feels like a high stand. The mountain has a mystical attraction.
Hiking Montana Fraile requires good orientation. The route is unmarked and rocky. Stamina is also key, given the altitude. Hiking sticks can help. They ease the climb on the slippery ground. Remember there are no places to stop for refreshments along the way. The best time to hike is year-round.
To get here by car, drive 30.5 km from Costa Calma. Take the FV-2 towards Morro Jable harbor. Turn right towards Playa Cofete just before the harbor entrance. After 7.7 km, you will reach Barranco Escobones. You can park 60 meters below a ruin.
From the starting point at 69 meters, walk up to the ruin. Then follow the Barranco Escobones. Walk about 1.1 km parallel to a mountain ridge on your right. You will spot a striking rock formation. Climb towards it.
Once on the ridge at 230 meters, continue for another 900 meters. After passing some light-colored rocks, you’ll find remnants of an old path. It’s lined with stones at 443 meters. The path disappears after a right turn. Now, you can see the summit. A ridge to the right leads to the top.
At the fork in the path at 539 meters, climb the ridge to your right. Use your hands to help. The ridge walk to the summit requires a good head for heights.
From the summit at 706 meters, the view is breathtaking. Look down at Villa Winter and Playa Cofete. See Playa Barlovento and the other peaks of the Jandiamassiv.
For the descent, walk down 100 meters. Look for a path 50 to 100 meters below the ridge. This path crosses the slope until it rejoins the ascent route.
As you descend, ponder the mystery of the disappearing path. Pirates often raided Fuerteventura in the 14th and 15th centuries. Did this path lead to a pirate lookout? What other purpose could it have served? The Montana Fraile keeps its secrets close.