The island of La Palma, affectionately known as “La Isla Bonita”, is a unique tourist destination in the Canary archipelago. With its stunning natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and starry skies, La Palma offers a unique experience that captivates travellers from around the world. In this article, I will guide you through the top places you must visit during your trip to this jewel of the Atlantic.
1. **Caldera de Taburiente National Park:**
Caldera de Taburiente National Park is the heart of La Palma and one of its greatest natural treasures. This immense volcanic caldera, with its steep cliffs, Canary pine forests, and deep ravines, is a paradise for hiking and nature enthusiasts. Here, you can enjoy walks along impressive routes such as the Volcanoes Route, which offers panoramic views of volcanic craters and lava fields.
2. **Roque de los Muchachos Observatory:**
La Palma is renowned for its dark, clear skies, making it one of the best places in the world for astronomical observation. At the summit of Roque de los Muchachos lies one of the most important observatories on the planet, where you can marvel at the stars and planets through powerful telescopes. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a guided night tour to gaze at the vastness of the universe.
3. **Cascada de los Colores:**
Hidden in the heart of the island, the Cascada de los Colores is one of La Palma’s most impressive natural wonders. This waterfall, formed by the convergence of several streams, falls into a natural pool of crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush vegetation. The spectacle of colours created by the minerals present in the rocks is simply stunning and will leave you breathless.
4. **Los Tilos Forest:**
Los Tilos Forest is a remnant of laurisilva, a type of subtropical humid forest that once covered much of the Canary Islands. Here, you can walk among tall ferns, mosses, and lichens, while listening to the whisper of the wind through the trees. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the famous Nacimiento de Marcos y Cordero, where water gushes from the rocks in a spectacular display of nature.
5. **Playa de Nogales:**
For those seeking to relax and enjoy the sun and sea, Playa de Nogales is the perfect spot. This black volcanic sand beach, bordered by high cliffs, offers a natural and pristine setting where you can swim, surf, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. Moreover, the absence of large crowds allows you to enjoy the tranquillity and serenity of the environment.
6. **Puerto de Tazacorte:**
The picturesque Puerto de Tazacorte is a charming coastal village located on the west side of the island. With its fishing port, colourful houses, and extensive black sand beach, Tazacorte is the perfect place to enjoy a day of sun and sea. Additionally, you can savour a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants offering fresh seafood and typical Canarian dishes.
In summary, La Palma is a unique tourist destination that offers the perfect combination of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you are interested in exploring its impressive volcanic landscapes, marvelling at the universe from the top of a mountain, or relaxing on a beautiful beach, La Palma has something for everyone. So don’t hesitate any longer and get ready to discover the treasures of this incredible Canary Island. We await you with open arms!
Bonita Camper recommends visiting La Palma’s tourism website: https://visitlapalma.es/
You will find very interesting information about tourism on our island of La Palma.