La Palma is an island dedicated to nature, and was the first Spanish island to be designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, in 1983. Almost four decades later, La Palma is still one of the most unspoiled and serene islands in the Canary Island archipelago, which sits just off the coast of Morocco. Due to La Palma’s rugged coastline and volcanic black-sand beaches, it dodged the mass beach development of sister islands Lanzarote and Tenerife, and is a great bet for travellers who’d choose barefoot luxury and spectacular scenery over glossy resorts and busy promenades. To the north, you’ll find lush rainforest; to the south, dramatic volcanic moonscapes. And the old town of the capital – Santa Cruz de la Palma – is an architectural wonder, with grand whitewashed villas, cobbled streets and a brilliant museum housed in a 16th-century monastery.
WHERE TO SLEEP
Faro Punta Cumplida
For a truly memorable stay, bed down in this still-functioning 18th-century lighthouse in the rugged north-east of the island, arguably La Palma’s most enchanting region. The three units sleep a maximum of eight guests, so bespoke service is assured, with the housekeeper dropping off a breakfast basket every morning, brimming with fresh produce from Puntagorda’s farmers’ market.
Address: Faro Punta Cumplida — Isla de La Palma c/ Lomo Machin 66 Bajo, La Palma
Website: rusticae.com
Doubles from: £280
Hotel Hacienda de Abajo
This is La Palma’s grande-dame hotel, a historic adults-only 32-room property on a former sugar estate. The original 17th-century building houses the plushest rooms, with chandeliers and antique artwork. El Sitio, the rather formal fine-dining restaurant, is prime people-watching territory; local design legend Manolo Blahnik has been spotted dining here.
Address: Calle de Unamuno, 11 — 38770 Villa y Puerto de Tazacorte, La Palma
Website: hotelhaciendadeabajo.com
Doubles from: £215Las Casitas de Tijarafe
These homely stand-alone casitas are a brilliant budget option, with a swimming pool and barbecue kit for food-loving travellers who daydream of stocking up on local produce from the brilliant Mercado Municipal in Santa Cruz de la Palma and getting creative with Canarian flavours.
Where To Explore
Charco Azul natural pool
The turquoise of this swimming pool, carved out of natural rock, will linger in your memories long after your return to reality. It’s more of a local haunt than a tourist destination, so it’s the perfect spot to soak up some local flavour and eat tapas from Bar Charco Azul.
Address: Camino del Melonar, San Andres y Sauces, La Palma
La Palma Astrophysical Observatory
Among astrophysics enthusiasts and stargazers, La Palma’s observatory is known as one of Spain’s best – La Palma is a designated Starlight Reserve. Visits are free, but you need to make a request via the website.
The Enchanted Forest
The name sounds like an exaggeration, but this lush forest weaves a powerful spell. From Cubo de La Galga, a hiking path steers travellers through some of La Palma’s prime rainforest, past giant ferns, huge laurel trees and lianas.
Address: Cubo de la Gala, 38714 Puntallana, La Palma
Where to eat
El Jardin de la Sal
With a spectacular location overlooking the salt pans and next to the old Fuencaliente lighthouse, this family-run restaurant is a perfect place to try local seafood while enjoying views of the ocean, volcanic landscapes and the dazzling white of all that salt.
Restaurant Enriclai
At this intimate 16-seater restaurant run by Carmen, a local culinary legend, it feels as if you’ve been invited into a 200-year-old Canarian abode to feast on local delicacies. The menu changes every day and there are superb vegetarian options, plus dishes can be served vegan on request.
Address: Doctor Santos Abreu, Santa Cruz de la Palma
Website: visitlapalma.esLa Casa del Volcán
This farm-to-table restaurant is a firm favourite for its traditional Canarian cooking and a well-curated list of local wines. Located on the rim of the San Antonio volcano, an awe-inspiring crater that has lain dormant since 1678, it has stargazing opportunities that only add to this rustic bodega’s charms.
Address: Calle Los Volcanes, 23. 38740. Fuencaliente de La Palma
Website: lacasadelvolcan.esKeep scrolling for more photos of the best spots in La Palma…
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Hotel Hacienda De Abajo
Faro Punta Cumplida
Hotel Hacienda De Abajo
Hotel Hacienda De Abajo
Jardin De La Sal
La Fajana
