Source of information: www.spain.info
Photography: Saul Santos
Volcanic sandbanks, coves between cliffs and exceptional natural landscapes. This is the Canary Island of La Palma, an idyllic place with many ecological treasures. A finalist in the European Commission’s EDEN (European Destinations of Excellence) programme, in recognition of its sustainable tourism proposal, it is also the destination that has experienced the most recent volcanic eruption in Spain and therefore has the youngest territory in the country.
La Palma, known as ‘La Isla Bonita’, is the greenest island in the Canary archipelago. With lush forests and rugged coasts that hide black sand beaches, this island surprises visitors with its ecological treasures and exceptional nature. Declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, it has a multitude of protected natural spaces, and in its interior is the Caldera de Taburiente National Park. The volcanic lava, which reaches the seafront, has led to the creation of a low, rocky coastline, with small coves squeezed between cliffs.
Due to its great height in proportion to its small surface area, it is considered one of the highest islands in the world. The island has high peaks such as the Roque de los Muchachos, a world reference point for astrophysics, thanks to its modern observatory, which has one of the most modern and spectacular telescopic installations on the planet, with an average annual temperature of between 16 and 21 degrees centigrade, La Palma has a diversity of landscapes that leaves no one indifferent. Nor does its artistic, historical and cultural heritage and traditions leave you indifferent. Special attention should be paid to some of its most deeply rooted traditions, such as ‘Los Indianos en Carnaval’ and, every five years, the Fiestas lustrales. These are known as the Bajada de la Virgen de las Nieves and during the first two weeks of July, the Semana Grande and the Semana Chica, they bring together great events and acts. Special mention should be made of the Danza de los Enanos (Dance of the Dwarfs), a heritage that is enriched by the textile handicrafts, cigar making and other handicrafts. To top it all off, the island’s gastronomic offer, with cheeses and wines as star products, which have given the destination the Saborea La Palma (Savour La Palma) brand.
