Veril De Fariones, Lanzarote: steep volcanic wall and deep profiles

The topography of Veril De Fariones is defined by a highly abrupt volcanic wall that runs along the coastline between Playa Grande and Playa Chica. Unlike many shallower coastal reefs, this site is characterized by a steep gradient that brings you to significant depths very quickly. The wall is not a simple vertical drop but is composed of complex volcanic reliefs, including various rocky outcroppings and protrusions. This structure creates a variety of micro-habitats that support different levels of marine life throughout the descent. Understanding the vertical nature of the site is essential for managing your buoyancy and descent rate.

As you descend, the profile transitions from the shallower upper sections toward a much more demanding environment. The depth reaches down to 40 metres, where the topography becomes more intricate. One of the most distinctive features of the site is a cave located at the foot of the wall at approximately this 40-metre mark. Exploring this area requires precise control, as the physical structure of the wall changes from open face to enclosed spaces. These depths are often where the most interesting geological formations are found, providing a stark contrast to the more exposed upper sections.

The biological interest of the wall is concentrated in its crevices and around its rocky surfaces. You will encounter various resident species, including the dusky grouper, which often stays close to the rockwork. Large giant anemones provide significant cover for smaller organisms along the wall face. For those keeping a close eye on the substrate, narval shrimp can often be found in the more sheltered nooks of the volcanic rock. These encounters are best made by maintaining a steady position against the wall to avoid unnecessary movement and silting.

While the recreational limit of the site is found within the upper 40 metres, the biological diversity extends much deeper. Beyond the standard recreational depths, at approximately 60 metres, the environment transitions into forests of black coral. While these are typically beyond the reach of standard recreational diving, they form part of the wider ecosystem that defines this volcanic descent. The presence of these deep-water corals influences the nutrient flow and the types of life found even in the shallower zones. This depth gradient is what makes the Veril De Fariones a site of particular interest for those studying volcanic reef structures.

Managing your dive at Veril De Fariones requires constant attention to your depth and trim. Because the wall is so close to the shore, the transition from the surface to the deep sections happens rapidly. This can lead to a quick increase in nitrogen loading, making a well-planned dive profile and strict adherence to your computer settings essential. The proximity to the coast also means that the light conditions can change quickly as you move from the surface into the shadows of the overhangs. Always be mindful of your gas consumption, especially when exploring the deeper recesses of the wall.

The conditions at the site are influenced by the open nature of the Atlantic, which can affect how the water moves across the wall. While the site is often manageable, the depth and the suddenness of the drop-off mean that you should always monitor the local sea state before entering the water. Whether you access the site via a boat or through a shore entry from Playa Grande, the primary focus remains the verticality of the terrain. The site offers a serious dive for those who are comfortable with deep-water environments and structured wall profiles.

The way you approach the site will depend on your chosen entry method, but the objective remains the same: finding the wall face. If you are entering from the shore, you will typically perform a surface swim toward the reef structure before beginning your descent. Once you reach the wall, your primary task is to maintain a safe distance from the rock while navigating the contours. The interplay between the steep volcanic drop and the various overhangs makes for a highly technical and engaging dive experience for those with the appropriate experience.