LA PALMA, CANARY ISLANDS

This tour provides us with an introduction to this beautiful island, with visits to the insular Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de Las Nieves and the famous National Park of Caldera de Taburiente.

Departing the quayside, we pass through the capital of Santa Cruz de La Palma to reach the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de Las Nieves, home to the patron saint of the island. It is the spiritual centre for all the people of La Palma, and its foundations date from the years of the conquest. We shall have a short photo stop here before proceeding to the Mirador de la Concepcion. The viewpoint here offers spectacular views of the Santa Cruz de la Palma and the port.

Our next stop is at the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, created in 1954, which is one of the biggest craters in the world, with a circumference of 28,000 metres, diameter of 9,000 metres and a depth of approximately 1,500 metres. The crater is lined with pine trees and bossed lava, which has been furrowed by cool streams. We will have the option of a guided walk over the crater border path, or we can remain at the Visitor’s Centre to get more information about this amazing place.

During our return journey we will discover the spectacular views of the craters of La Cumbrecita from the mountain roads.

TOUR NOTES: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking at each of the stops. To access the viewpoints a few steps will be encountered. At the National Park there is an uneven uphill path to negotiate. The walk around the crater border path is optional, but uneven ground will be encountered. Please note that toilet facilities are available at the Visitor’s Centre. Passengers are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring a jacket and sun protection.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT AT THE TIME OF PUBLISHING.