Santa Cruz de Tenerife 26 Mar. (Europa Press) –
The Cabildo de Tenerife has assigned the renovation and restoration works of the Altavista refuge, located in Teide National Park, alongside the purification station, to Dimurol SL facades for a total of 1,534,625.03 euros. The refurbishment is set to commence in May.
Besides restoring the building, the project includes the installation of environmentally friendly cleaning systems, a photovoltaic setup, and enhancements to energy efficiency along with proper thermal insulation.
The facility has been closed since 2020, and now the Cabildo has developed a project and completed the necessary documentation to undertake the renovation and restoration works, aimed at modernising its facilities while adhering to sustainability and safety standards for users.
According to the island president, Rosa Dávila, the reopening of the Speaker refuge signifies much more than merely restoring the “historic” structure itself. “We are primarily reclaiming a significant historical bond between mountaineers and Teide: a place for rest and acclimatisation before reaching the peak, a secure haven amidst harsh weather conditions,” stated the island leader in a press release.
Thus, the intention is to commence the work in May, with completion anticipated in the final quarter of the year.
Renovation Plan
The refurbishment and restoration activities will entail the renovation and optimisation of the existing rooms within the same building footprint, enhancing their functionality, as well as improvements in insulation and ventilation.
Furthermore, the adjacent module will be refurbished to the existing building located on the current concrete platform, intended for housing battery facilities and a fire pressure pump. Likewise, energy efficiency enhancements will be introduced, along with the installation of PVC pipes for the collection of wastewater generated in the shelter, directing it to the treatment facility.
The treatment facility, designed for 25 equivalent inhabitants, will comprise a grease trap or Imhoff tank and a biological filter or sampling booth equipped with filter bags for sludge dehydration, an absorbent well, and masonry walls for protection and integration of the installations.
About the Refuge
The Altavista refuge, constructed in the 19th century, has historically served as a crucial support point for hikers undertaking the ascent to Spain’s highest peak.
The infrastructure, as noted by the Cabildo, has been a pivotal meeting point, offering rest and acclimatisation for mountaineers and hikers from across the globe for over a century and plays an integral role in ensuring the safety and enjoyment of the ascent to Teide.
