Best of Aridane: The Airwaves of La Palma

LOS LLANOS DE ARIDANE, LA PALMA — From a quiet convent on the lush western slopes of La Palma, EA8URA, the Unión de Radioaficionados de Aridane, broadcasts more than just RF signals—it radiates island resilience and analog charm in a digital age.

Led by Santiago Tabares López (EA8BM), a passionate proponent of both modern logging systems and traditional QSL cards, the Aridane section blends romanticism and rigor. Every contact is uploaded monthly to LoTW, and daily operations find their way to QRZ.com, ClubLog, and HRDlog—but physical QSLs still matter here. “Me gusta mucho la tarjeta física,” notes EA8BM, speaking to a sentiment shared by many seasoned operators.

A Station in Transition

Currently undergoing upgrades, the Aridane station reflects the adaptive spirit of its volcanic homeland. Like La Palma itself—shaped by eruptions and renewal—EA8URA is constantly evolving. Its clubhouse, located at Convento 38, is more than a technical center; it’s a social enclave where camaraderie runs as strong as the signal on 20 meters.

The Local Touch, Global Reach

Despite being geographically remote, EA8URA enjoys global reach and relevance. The team is known for rapid QSL turnarounds, courteous net operation, and consistent presence across bands. The section’s website (ea8ura.es) serves as both logbook and lighthouse, guiding newcomers and DXers alike toward the island’s most committed hams.

Whether you're chasing a grid square or simply seeking the warmth of island hospitality through the ether, Aridane delivers—on HF, VHF, and every wavelength in between.