UNEXPECTED NIGHT IN A BARRANCO

This is where I must confess that going out for a meal after 10-30pm leaves me cold. But, our Spanish friends would not take "No" for an answer. I knew the Restaurant was good and so I reluctantly agreed. Having walked the Mountains above "Los Dos Barrancos" numerous times we left giving ourselves only 15 minutes to get there. Well, you have probably guessed.........Thanks to the construction people I got waylaid in a one-way system that would not get us to our destination! However, persistance eventually prevailed. We arrived late and hangry. (OK... you got it)
The Restaurant has grown with its clients and its Price List. However the fish (panga) was sweet and complimented by a decent wine. The beefsteak were more than adequate with a strong red, earthy wine. The bread was fresh from the oven and the coffee came around all to fast. Complete, we entered the fresh air outside and spying the moonlight night with its host of stars, instead of feeling tired; we all felt invigorated and the conversation continued easily. Our Spanish Hosts then asked us if we would like a "chupita" in a little place they knew further up the Barranco.
Feeling suitably refreshed, I heard myself say "Why not!" The next few minutes passed as a blur of fast corners, vertical drops, rocky outcrops,broken barriers and Prickly Pears in the dancing headlights of their car.
Well, I could possibly find the place again.....but then again.....perhaps not.
It was, completely off the beaten track and consisted of a selection of Shacks. The only sign that there were people about, was that we had to block-in two other cars to park. Our car being the fifth.
There was only a frightened goat. No other signs of life. No Lighting. No dogs barking. No noise. No voices........... nada!
A hidden side door eventually opened. A mantel of light, the smell of beer and some welcoming faces seduced us into an unexpected World. It seemed that half the village was packed into one small room with five musicians complete with guitars, a timple and acordian. These guys were simply making great music, catchy and rhythmic. A lady took my hand and suddenly I was dancing [sic] with a complete stranger whilst my feet were trying to catch up with the rhythm. Making my excuses I found a seat with my friends and found a second friend in a Terracotta Jug of "vino del casa" which was simply excellent. The musicians were exchanging instruments. The men were singing. The ladies were joining in chorus. And, I..... I was joining them in spirit!
What a Great Night. When I next glanced at my watch it was 3 in the morning and I had an early start in the South the next day (sorry ugh, That day).............so........... we had to begrudgingly leave. The latch on the door was heavier than when we gained entry; echoing our reluctance to call a halt to the evenings entertainment! No wonder......What a night! Bravo!
Yes, We had to force yourselves to go out late... But, a lot of the time it's THESE evenings that surpass themselves; isn't it? And, by the way...I did get to work on time, just. Thankyou Tenerife.