The 3 best viewpoints in La Palma
Have you ever dreamt of gazing at a sky bursting with stars, unpolluted by light?
La Palma, with its famously clear skies, is a stargazer’s paradise. But the beauty goes beyond the night. To experience the island’s contrasting landscapes in all their glory, don’t miss its breathtaking viewpoints. Join us as we explore the top 3 that will take your breath away, day or night.
Mirador de la Cumbrecita viewpoint – Best by day
Let’s start with one of the island’s most famous spots: The Mirador de la Cumbrecita, located in the municipality of El Paso. It serves up unbeatable views of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, located inside the park’s boundary at 1,287 metres above sea level).
What can you see from this viewpoint?
You’ll get a fabulous panoramic view of the valley and pine-laden ravines. An unforgettable view of nature!
A unique natural occurrence!
From this viewpoint, you’ll be able to witness a unique natural occurrence, first-hand: The waterfall of clouds descending the mountains. Have you heard about the islands’ ‘sea of clouds’? This natural phenomenon occurs when the trade winds push the clouds against the peaks, causing the moisture to condense. And here, you’ll see the ‘cloud waterfall’ version. It happens when the sea of clouds spills over the mountain, entering the western side of the island. As they drift down the slopes, the clouds stretch out, resembling a waterfall. It’s a frequently occurring phenomenon in the area.
Where is it?
In the national park itself, so you can hike there. The most famous route is the Miradores La Cumbrecita, a 3.4-km circular route that starts at La Cumbrecita car park. This easy walk covers a maximum climb of 164 m. A number of other routes depart from this point, including La Cumbrecita – Lomo de las Chozas, and La Cumbrecita – Pico Bejenado.
You can also get straight there by car. You can book a parking space a maximum of one month in advance via the website, or just head to the visitors’ centre.
Useful information
- Location: El Paso.
- Altitude: 1,287 m.
- Protected natural space
- Distance from the La Palma Princess hotel: 45 km. (approx. 1 hour by car)
Mirador de Los Andenes – Best by night
The Mirador de Los Andenes is the island’s highest viewpoint (2,000 metres). Located in the Caldera de Taburiente, it’s just a few kilometres from the Roque de Los Muchachos. The height of the viewpoint gives it some added perks: it means you can see almost the whole of the western part of the island (the Barranco de Las Angustias ravine and the entire Aridane valley), and you can easily make out Pinar de Garafía; an absolutely extraordinary pine tree forest.
What can you see from this viewpoint?
The Barranco de Las Angustias ravine is located within the limits of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park. This sinuous chasm has been carved out by the force of water, meandering through the spectacular rocks faces, and taking in the Pinar de Garafía Nature Reserve.
Marvel at the unique sky
We also recommend visiting this viewpoint at sunset or by night, so you can contemplate the sensational La Palma night sky. It’s considered one of the best in the world! Thanks to the altitude, you’ll see a panoramic vista of stars and constellations like nothing you’ve seen before.
Where is it?
You can travel there by car or via various hiking routes. A warning: we don’t recommend this climb in poor weather or low temperatures (under 7 degrees Celsius), because whilst the low clouds will rise, the views will be completely obscured by the sea of clouds.
Useful information
- Location: Garafía.
- Altitude: 2,000 m.
- Protected natural space.
- Distance from the La Palma Princess hotel: 72 km. (approx 1hr. 43 min. by car)
El Time Viewpoint – Best by day
Now let’s venture west, specifically to the municipality of Tijarafe to visit the Mirador del Time viewpoint. This is considered one of the most famous and best viewpoints on the island, and is located at the top of the mountain of the same name, which rises from the coastline of Puerto de Tazacorte to almost 700 metres high. To make sure you get the best views, this one is best visited on a clear, sunny day.
What can you see from this viewpoint?
This viewpoint gives you a stunning view across the whole of the Aridane valley, from the famous banana plantations and Barranco de Las Angustias ravine to the Puerto de Tazacorte coastline.
You’ll also get a fantastic view of the Tajogaite volcano, the latest to erupt on national soil, and one that’s captured the attention of everyone visiting La Palma. When the visibility is good, you’ll even get a glimpse of the island of El Hierro!
Relaxation on high
This viewpoint even has a restaurant and parking, so it’s the perfect spot to take a little break and have a snack if you’re on a day trip elsewhere on the island. And if you’re looking for sensational sunsets, this is one of the island’s best locations.
Useful information
- Location: Tijarafe.
- Altitude: 950 m.
- Public transport (110 line) and nearby restaurants.
- Protected natural space.
- Distance from the La Palma Princess hotel: 43 km. (approx. 1 hour by car).
Some pretty amazing views, right? Enjoy the best viewpoints in La Palma, and remember, we’re always ready to give you a warm welcome at the La Palma Princess. A four-star resort boasting a unique location and newly renovated facilities and services. See you there!
Categories: Canaries, Travel Tips, Get Inspired, La Palma
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