The Most Beautiful Hikes on the Isla Bonita: Pure Nature Awaits
La Palma is the greenest of the Canary Islands – and also one of the wildest. Volcanic peaks, lush laurel forests, deep ravines, and breathtaking coastal views: if you love hiking, you’ll fall in love with this island.
Hiking Trails on La Palma: How the Network Works
La Palma offers a well-maintained and clearly marked trail system with over 1.000 kilometers of hiking paths. All official routes are color-coded and numbered:
- GR (Gran Recorrido – red-white): Long-distance hikes across the island
- PR (Pequeño Recorrido – yellow-white): Medium-length hikes (5 – 25 km)
- SL (Sendero Local – green-white): Short local trails, often circular or connector paths
You’ll find trail signs, color markings on stones and trees, and information boards at major trailheads.
Below, we introduce two of the most impressive hikes:
The iconic Volcano Route in the south and the mystical laurel forest trail through Los Tilos in the north – both must-do experiences during any hiking holiday on La Palma, for very different reasons.
1. Volcano Route (GR 131 – Section El Pilar to Fuencaliente)
Overview:
- Start: Refugio El Pilar (El Paso)
- End: Los Canarios (Fuencaliente)
- Length: approx. 17,5 km
- Elevation: + 500 m / – 1.200 m
- Duration: 6 – 7 hours
- Marking: GR 131 (red-white)
Trail Description & Highlights:
The Volcano Route begins at Refugio El Pilar, a picnic area at around 1.450 m above sea level, surrounded by pine forest near El Paso.
The trail ascends gently at first, then transitions quickly into volcanic terrain. The forest thins, the ground turns black, and soon you’ll reach the Hoyo Negro, a deep crater from the 1949 eruption.
From here, the path follows the ridge line with stunning views on both sides: the Atlantic and the western slopes to your right, the eastern coast to your left. Along the way, you’ll pass other craters, including the impressive San Juan volcano, whose lava fields once flowed down to Las Manchas.
Midway through the hike, the terrain becomes increasingly barren. Vegetation gives way to a dramatic volcanic landscape, with the Martín volcano standing out thanks to its reddish slopes and wide ash fields. A short side trail leads to the crater rim – a perfect spot for a panoramic break.
The final section is a long descent through loose volcanic ash and young lava fields. You’ll see pioneering pine trees slowly reclaiming the black earth. On sunny days, the contrast between the dark ground, blue sky, and vibrant green is stunning.
The hike ends in the village of Los Canarios, in the heart of Fuencaliente.
What to Bring:
- 2 – 3 liters of water (no refill stations!)
- Sun protection, hat
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Optional: trekking poles
- Snacks and provisions
2. Los Tilos Waterfall & Laurel Forest Hike
Overview:
- Start: Casa del Monte (taxi from Los Tilos Visitor Center)
- End: Los Tilos Visitor Center
- Length: approx. 12 km
- Elevation: + 200 m / – 1.100 m
- Duration: 5 – 6 hours
- Marking: white-yellow
Trail Description & Highlights:
This tour begins at Casa del Monte, a small pump station in the source area of Marcos y Cordero. The narrow trail first descends gently, then follows a water channel. Parts of the path are narrow, exposed, and secured with cables – not ideal for those with fear of heights, but otherwise manageable.
Soon, the first highlight appears: the first of 13 tunnels. These tunnels range from 20 to 400 meters in length. Some are low or damp – so bring a good flashlight or headlamp, and a waterproof backpack.
Between the tunnels, the trail follows the water channel through lush vegetation. Ferns, mosses, and ancient laurel trees line the path, while deep ravines open up in the distance. The cool, damp air and the constant sound of running water give this hike a truly magical atmosphere.
After the final tunnel, the trail descends in winding switchbacks through dense cloud forest. The ground is often wet and slippery – so good hiking shoes with grip are essential. With every meter, the forest grows greener and denser.
Eventually, you’ll reach the Los Tilos Visitor Center, nestled between towering cliffs and ancient trees.
What to Bring:
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Hiking boots with good grip (wet trails!)
- Rain protection
- Snacks and water
Extra Tips for Your Hiking Holiday on La Palma:
- Always bring enough water and sun protection – even in forested areas
- Many hikes are not circular – plan a return or transfer
- Apps like Komoot are great for navigation
- The official Senderos de La Palma website provides up-to-date trail conditions and closures
- Trekking poles are especially helpful on volcanic terrain
Conclusion: Hiking on La Palma Is Diverse, Wild, and Wonderfully Beautiful
Tip:
Take a look at our holiday homes in El Paso, Tijarafe, or Puntagorda – ideal bases for hiking enthusiasts!