Known locally as Isla Bonita, La Palma it is truly beautiful with remarkable scenery ranging from soaring forest-covered mountains in the north to volcanic lunar landscapes in the south contrasting with wide, fertile valleys, dramatic sea cliffs, and black sandy beaches that fringe the Atlantic shores. La Palma holidays really are a perfect island escape.
The greenest and most rural of the Canary Islands, La Palma boasts picturesque villages, sleepy towns and pleasantly warm temperatures all year round. A World Biosphere Reserve is has 19 naturally protected areas including majestic pine forests and lush laurel woods, deep ravines, salt pans, waterfalls, natural parks, volcanic craters and an unique caldera. La Palma holidays are ideal for a tranquil break, this most north western of the Canary Islands also caters for numerous outdoor pursuits including hiking, stargaze, mountain biking and scuba diving.
Santa Cruz de la Palma
Located on the east side of the island the capital SantaCruz de la Palma is a lovely seaside town with a glorious past and an attractive mix of traditional and modern architecture, including along the seafront promenade, a row of houses with wooden balconies that have become the symbol of this capital. Ideal for holidays to La Palma, the islands capital offers a wealth of sites to see. There are some notable churches, museums, a fortress and a life size replica of Columbus’ ship, the Santa Maria, which houses the Naval Museum. The outstanding Plaza de Espana in the centre of town is surrounded by a striking 16th century town hall, a Renaissance style church, a 17th century palace and a number of beautiful well-preserved manor houses. There’s a narrow, cobbled pedestrianised shopping street, a local market and, along the coastal road, an array of cafes and shops
Brena Baja
Located in the countryside on the east coast, and just 3km from the bustling capital ofSanta Cruz, the small hillside village of Brena Benja is a beautifully tranquil spot with plenty of bars and restaurants serving typical Canarian cuisine and a selection of traditional local wines. The area enjoys stunning views along the coastline and across to neighbouring La Gomera and Tenerife and there are scenic walks in the surrounding mountains, with the capital with its many bars, restaurants and lively port just a few minutes’ drive away. The nearest beach is at Playa de los Cancajos, the largest tourist development on the island, where three bays of volcanic black sand are set into the rocky coastline: the protected crystal clear waters are excellent for diving and snorkelling as well as for swimming. Brena Baja is ideal for those on La Palma holidays looking to experience a taste of rural village life in a superbly peaceful setting.
Puerto Naos
For those looking for somewhere quiet and peaceful on holidays to La Palma and with the best sunshine record on the island, the small resort of Puerto Naos on La Palma’s west coast boasts the longest beach on the island; a gorgeous 500m stretch of black volcanic sand fringed by palm trees providing good shade. There are numerous bars and restaurants, tourist shops and small supermarkets and, set in from the beach, the town is comprised of residential streets and a boulevard lined with shops, bars and restaurants. Nightlife is low key tending to centres around the hotels and restaurants. Puerto Naos provides an ideal base for exploring the island.
Tazacorte
The historic town and port of Tazacorte lies on the fertile coast of the Valle de Aridane on the west side of the island of La Palma. Once a centre for cultivating sugar cane, it is now better known for its extensive banana plantations. The port area features a fishing harbour, a black sand beach and several restaurants serving delicious locally caught fish. Delightful, traditional Canarian houses can be found along the narrow streets in the old part of town and an attractive seafront promenade features cafes, a few shops and a supermarket. This picture-perfect destination is an ideal choice for holidays in La Palma.