LA PALMA, the most northerly of the CANARY ISLANDS, is also known as ‘the beautiful island’ as it is so green and is blessed with extraordinary natural splendour. Although only about 30 x 20 miles there is much to explore and the vegetation varies greatly between the coastal area and the highest point of 8,000 feet at ROQUE DE LOS MUCHACHOS.
Eighty percent of the island income comes from bananas and you will see the plantations everywhere. Also, citrus orchards, avocado, mango, papaya, almond trees blossoming splendidly in February, date palms and even tobacco from which craftsmen make hand-made cigars. Many vineyards are making some good wines in the traditional way, and in the extreme south the famous Malvasia wine is produced.
In the centre of the island LA CALDERA DE TABURIENTE NATIONAL PARK encompasses the magnificent TABURIENTE CRATER. With a diameter of over 6 miles and nearly 5000 feet deep, this immense crater was formed by volcanoes and hollowed out by erosion over millions of years, and is constantly changing. There are several viewpoints into the crater that can be reached by car, but the favourite way to get to know this dramatic landscape is on foot. This may be a short stroll, or
something more strenuous, but wherever you look the views are breathtaking.
From Taburiente National Park a line of volcanoes stretches down to the southern tip of the island so that it is effectively divided into two parts by a mighty ridge. SANTA CRUZ on the eastern coast of La Palma is the island’s capital and well worth a visit.
Los Cancajos is a quiet little resort ideal for relaxation and from where you can easily explore the rest of this stunning island. It has three black sand beaches, one of which usually has sunbeds. There is a shopping area, which includes a supermarket and hairdresser as well as numerous restaurants. A regular local bus service takes you into Santa Cruz.
Los Cancajos is near enough to the airport for aircraft to be heard, but this is not usually intrusive. The airport is not busy and closes at night.
WALKING
La Palma is an ideal place for walkers as there are well-marked tracks all over the island. There are guided walks available virtually every day, or alternatively you may want to strike off on your own and there is a good choice of books to be found on the island, which give details of the many walks.
REPRESENTATIVE
Our local representative will arrange airport transfers, visit you at the Hacienda twice a week, organise the weekly drinks gathering for Cricketer Holidays guests and do everything possible to make your stay an enjoyable one.
TOURS/CAR HIRE
We have included a full day tour of the south of the island within the price of your holiday. There are other excursions by coach available almost every day, as well as guided walks and your representative will have all the information you need. The roads are good. There is little traffic and many scenic drives. Car hire can be arranged on arrival if required.
CLIMATE
La Palma has a wide variety of climates. The daily temperatures average about 18°C with variations throughout the year. La Palma receives more rain than the other Canary Islands, which is why it is so lush.
