Known as “la Isla bonita” from Madonna’s famous song, La Palma is a pristine corner of the Canary Islands, perfect for those looking for authentic nature and truly sustainable tourism. For a few months, I have been lucky enough to live in Tenerife, and over time, I was able to visit all the islands of the archipelago while still marvelling in front of all the beauty that these islands offer. In this article,e I want to share with you the places that made me fall in love: breathtaking landscapes, wild beaches, canyons, and spectacular caves.
Ruta de los volcanes
Ruta de los volcanes is a spectacular hiking trail that crosses the wild heart of the island of La Palma. This fascinating itinerary winds its way through craters, spectacular scenery, and pine forests, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby islands. The terrain, shaped by ancient eruptions, offers an extraordinary contrast between the black of the solidified lava and the vibrant green of the vegetation that over the years has conquered the soil. Here, the silence is interrupted only by the sounds of nature, creating an atmosphere of deep connection with it. Perfect for lovers of trekking and ecotourism, this trail allows you to explore a unique ecosystem and witness the creative force of the Earth.
Playa de Nogales
Hidden among cliffs and surrounded by a wild and unspoiled atmosphere, Playa de Nogales is one of the most fascinating pearls of the island of La Palma. This beach of black volcanic sand, wet by the waves of the ocean, it’s a real paradise for lovers of nature and sustainable tourism. The trail to reach it goes across a lush coastal vegetation and offers breathtaking views of the ocean, guiding the visitors through an unspoilt landscape. Along the trail, it’s possible to admire the suggestive Cueva de los Piratas, a natural cave wrapped in mystery, that adds a touch of adventure to the experience and that, together with the other characteristics that I wrote before, makes Playa de Nogales a perfect place to reconnect with the nature and far from mass tourism.
Cueva de Poris de Candelaria
The cave of Paris de Candelaria, located between the cliffs overlooking the sea on the west coast of La Palma, is a fascinating and almost surreal place, accessible only by sea or through steep panoramic paths. This complex of houses was once a fishing village and still retains an authentic and peaceful atmosphere. The white houses are set in volcanic rock and seem to almost merge with this and a few steps away, where the cave overlooks the ocean, the waves crash violently, creating a hypnotic natural spectacle, but without being a danger to those who are in the cave. An ideal place for those looking for an authentic contact with nature.
Tazacorte
Tazacorte, overlooking the west coast of La Palma, is a sunny and colorful corner of the island, immersed in a rich and varied natural landscape. Surrounded by banana plantations and volcanic cliffs, this quiet town enjoys the best climate on the island and spectacular sunsets over the sea. Along the coast, a black sand beach with crystal clear waters, while trails in the surroundings lead between canyons, crops, and breathtaking views.
Traveling through these unspoilt and wild corners of La Palma, you will discover landscapes that tell stories and the beauty of nature. But it is essential that each of us, while enjoying these extraordinary places, is committed to protecting and respecting them, letting their authenticity and fragility be appreciated even by future generations: walking with respect, limiting the impact, and choosing responsible consumption practices are essential gestures to preserve this natural paradise.
I invite you to enjoy every corner of this paradise, to respect it, and let it conquer you with its unique charm!
Cover image: photo via Canva PRO
