La Palma, also known as 'La Isla Bonita', is a picturesque island located in the Canary Islands archipelago, part of Spain. The island is renowned for its diverse landscapes, ranging from lush forests and volcanic craters to black sand beaches, offering a vibrant natural beauty.
La Palma is located in the Canary Islands, an archipelago that forms an autonomous community of Spain. Positioned in the North Atlantic Ocean, it lies off the north-west coast of Africa and is the most northwesterly of the Canary Islands.
Celebrated for its alluring blend of lush laurel forests, craggy volcanic terrains, and glittering black sand beaches, La Palma is a paradise for nature lovers. As a recognised UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a Starlight Reserve, it is renowned for both its biodiversity and starlit skies. Combining exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion, La Palma is one of the Canary Islands' must-see destinations.
Santa Cruz de La Palma is the island's capital and offers a blend of historical, cultural and modern attractions. As you walk through the town, you'll see stunning examples of traditional Canary Island architecture. Noted for their beautifully carved wooden balconies, the buildings are a picturesque sight, with vibrantly coloured facades adorned with lush greenery. One of its major attractions is the Plaza de España with its striking 16th-century Iglesia de El Salvador. The Naval Museum - an exact replica of Christopher Columbus's ship, Santa Maria, is another favourite amongst visitors.
Caldera de Taburiente National Park is centered around a massive volcanic crater and is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in La Palma. The park is home to more than 1,000 plant species, as well as geographical wonders and opportunities for stargazing, owing to the lack of light pollution. In fact, the island is known as an 'astrotourism' destination and has been declared a Starlight Reserve.
La Palma is a paradise for hikers. Natural diversity, well-marked paths, dramatic cliffs and tranquil forests create fascinating terrain that's best explored on foot. One of the most impressive routes is Lavas la Malforada, a popular but challenging hiking trail that winds through an impressive field of lava flows. Hikers are treated to an incredibly unique and otherworldly panorama, reminiscent of lunar landscapes, dominated by shades of black, red, and brown.
