DETAILED ITINERARY

La Palma is cone-shaped and resembles an enormous volcano. It is one of the smaller and quieter of the Canary Islands, with a rural feel. Its tallest peak, Roque de Los Muchachos, rises to 2,426 m and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. The whole island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with pine forests, massive volcanos rising to tremendous heights, deep canyons and crystal clear waterfalls.

This unspoiled island is perfect for walking or simply relaxing on a secluded black sand beach. The natural lagoons on the north-east near La Fajana are popular for swimming. Be aware that the climate is varied, due to the mountains being so close to the coast, so whilst the seaside is wonderfully warm, at the top of the mountains you will need a jacket.

Caldera de Taburiente National Park in the north is definitely worth visiting, with its million-year-old massive crater surrounded by high volcanic peaks. La Cumbrecita viewpoint offers several different forest paths, as well as a views of the entire island. The park offers many walking trails, including the 10 km Coloured Waterfall (‘Cascada de Los Colores’) hike through a deep canyon to a rainbow waterfall whose rocks have been coloured by mineral deposits over the years. You will also see many black ravens in the park. With its clear night skies free from light pollution, Roque de Los Muchachos has many professional telescopes on it, including the largest astronomical observatory in the northern hemisphere.

Los Tilos, in the north-east, is a dense and peaceful cloud forest full of giant ferns and broad-leaved laurel trees. You can walk to the Espigón Atravesado viewpoint for wonderful views over this protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Cumbre Vieja National Park in the south has a dramatic 17 km ‘Volcano Route’ hike, walking along a dormant volcanic ridge to the desolate crater of San Antonio volcano.

For those who enjoy the ocean, La Palma offers the best visibility for snorkelling & diving in the Canaries. The clear sea water offers excellent visibility and a rugged seabed, with many underwater caves to explore. These islands are also the best place in Europe for dolphins and whale watching, with boat trips arranged from Tazacorte on the west coast.

On the east coast, the busy port of Santa Cruz de la Palma is the capital of the island. Its picturesque Spanish colonial centre has centuries-old architecture, including the historic Las Nieves church, cobbled streets, colourful houses and many monuments. The Naval Museum is housed in a replica of the ‘Santa Maria’, Christopher Colombus’ flagship which stopped in the Canaries on his epic journey to the Americas. There is also a Cigar Museum, Silk Museum and Archaeological Museum.

Eating out is an enormous pleasure here as Canarian food is simply delicious, with lots of seafood and fresh ingredients produced locally. Car hire is recommended for getting around the island, with its vast plantations of banana trees, although there are local buses that connect the main places.

PRICING

Price is based on two adults sharing en-suite accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis. La Palma airport transfers & flights from London Gatwick are included, with other regional departures on request. Car hire can also be arranged.

We offer a choice of hotels at different prices, so please discuss your requirements with us. All hotels are subject to availability.

It is essential that you have personal holiday insurance, and an appropriate driving licence if you intend to hire a car. The FCO should also be consulted.