Los Molinos, La Herradura: Stepped wall and rocky terrain

Los Molinos is situated along the east face of Cerro Gordo, following the coastline from the small bay near Calaiza toward the point of La Herradura. The dive begins as you encounter a vertical wall that defines the eastern edge of the bay. This topography is not a smooth slope but a complex arrangement of large detached rocks. These formations create a stepped profile that transitions through several depth increments, providing a varied terrain for exploration.

The underwater structure is defined by significant relief, offering plenty of interest for those who enjoy navigating complex terrain. You will find numerous cracks, overhangs, and small caves carved into the rock face. These geological features provide shelter for resident marine life and create different micro-habitats along the wall. The variety in the relief ensures that there is always a new corner or a small cavern to investigate as you move through the site.

The depth profile typically ranges from 12 metres to 23 metres, making it a manageable descent for many divers. Because the wall is not a single continuous slope, you will find several flat sections and ledges between the steeper drops. This stepped layout allows you to choose your path depending on how you wish to manage your air consumption and your encounter with the currents. It is a site that rewards slow, methodical swimming through the crevices.

Conditions at Los Molinos are influenced by its position near the end of one of the arms of La Herradura bay. When the water is calm, the site is best explored as an out-and-back dive along the wall, allowing you to move back and forth through the different depth zones. In these conditions, you can focus on inspecting the various holes and overhangs without worrying about being pushed off course.

When the tide or local conditions generate movement, you will encounter a moderate current. In these instances, the dive is typically planned as a one-way drift dive, starting from one end and allowing the flow to carry you toward the cape. This approach makes the most of the natural movement of the water and allows for an efficient tour of the wall's features. Being aware of the direction of the flow is essential for a safe and controlled dive profile.