La Palma, the 'Isla Bonita'
It's no exaggeration to call La Palma "Isla Bonita" (Beautiful Island). In terms of hue, La Palma would unquestionably be a lush and multifaceted green. This verdant hue is the result of the Canary Islands' abundance of pine trees and the peculiar laurisilva species that have made their home on the island. Lush trees cover the sides of deep valleys, and a web of pathways winds through them.
The island's growth and the creation of breathtaking scenery are both attributable to the island's volcanic history, which has been modified by eruptions over the past century. The awe-inspiring stillness that permeates these landscapes, together with the volcanic cones, layers of tiny rock pieces, and lava fields in colours of black, ochre, and red, connects us to the raw force of untamed nature.
The scenery is very breathtaking. La Palma has been designated as a Starlight Reserve, making it one of the best places to go stargazing in the world. The stunning scenery continues in the turquoise seas around the island. La Palma is home to one of the three marine reserves in the Canary Islands, a stunning underwater volcanic world full of caverns, arches, cliffs, and unusual animals.
Observatorio del Roque de Los Muchachos
Relax in one of the marvellous natural pools protected by ancient lava flows that reach all the way to the coast as you emerge from the pure waters, still inside the embrace of the beautiful blue sea that caresses La Palma's rough shores.
What's even better? This magnificent island is a biosphere reserve, so you may enjoy its natural splendour year-round. This is a perk of living on one of the Canary Islands, which boasts the best weather in the world.
One of the most spectacular sights in all of the Canary Islands, La Caldera de Taburiente is also La Palma's most prized possession. From the park's beautiful vantage points, you can take in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding cliffs, which soar to a staggering height of over 2,000 metres.
The park is beautiful, but it's much better when you see it in person instead of simply looking at pictures. Hiking one of the park's paths is the best way to see the sights up close. All of your senses will be stimulated as you make your way through the deep Canary Island pine forest, thanks to the exotic aroma of this indigenous species and the enchanting songs of the birds. Walking to the centre of the caldera is a challenging but ultimately worthwhile endeavour. There are many treasures to be found along the road, and at the end of your trek, you may cool yourself in the clear, year-round streams. Visit the park's heights, where the world-famous Roque de los Muchachos Astrophysical Observatory is located, and look out over the enormous caldera; you'll feel like you're flying in the sky.
Cascada de Los Tilos
La Palma's large path system is a major draw, allowing visitors to explore the island's stunning variety of natural environments. You may choose from a wide variety of landscapes, including desolate volcanic regions, lush pine and laurel woods, steep, rocky ravines, and precipitous cliffs along the shore.
The beautiful laurel forests, such as Los Tilos, are La Palma's hidden gem, beyond the island's volcanic vistas and pine forests. The Tertiary epoch is the last known home for the plant species that make up this deposit. Hiking through the pathways of this old, humid forest, which seems like it sprang straight out of a fairy tale, is like taking a trip back in time to a period before the dawn of civilization.
The charm of La Palma begins as soon as the sun goes down. The clear, starry night sky is one of the best in the world, and it captivates everybody who looks up at it. The numerous scientists from all over the world who travel to the island to use the powerful telescopes at the Roque de los Muchachos Astrophysical Observatory to study the solar system and beyond are proof of this.
You don't have to be an expert in astronomy to enjoy the legally protected sky show. La Palma has the distinction of being the first Starlight Reserve and the first Starlight Tourist Destination in the world. Plan to go stargazing on a guided tour or at one of the approved overlooks at least once during your visit. Don't forget to wish upon a star, either.
Charco Azul
The clear seas that lap at the coasts of La Palma are just as inviting for scuba divers as the clear skies above. Beautiful volcanic sand beaches can be found all along the coast and are enjoyable at any time of year. Nogales is remote and wild, but swimmers should exercise extreme caution owing to strong currents. Other beaches, such as Puerto Naos and Los Cancajos, provide calm, safe waters that are perfect for the whole family.
Another pleasant option is to swim in a natural pool or pond that has historical lava flows from nearby volcanoes protecting it from ocean waves. The Charco Azul and La Fajana pools are the most well-known, and they both have restaurants and bathrooms close by, making them ideal for a family vacation.
Don't leave La Palma without trying some of the island's signature sweets, such as "Almendrados" or "Prncipe Albertos." Desserts like this make every meal seem complete.
