La Palma

Fuencaliente, in the island's south, is a good base for travellers looking to explore nearby natural attractions. Visit the village of Los Canarios itself, and take trips to nearby volcanoes: de San Antonio and Teneguia, or salt pools to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of this region.

Charco Azul, in San Andres y Sauces, is our top choice, followed closely by Piscinas de la Fajana; a similar location just a short drive north from Charco Azul. Both are well-maintained and equipped with visitor facilities. Pool waters are clear and shallow, with surrounding caves providing shelter from the summer sun.

One of the highlights of La Palma is the Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory containing the world's largest optical telescope. Book a daytime tour and see professional telescopes used to watch the stars, or join an evening astronomy tour to take a close-up look at the night sky yourself. The island's highest point is a stone's throw away from the observatory and makes for a great hike.

The island's administrative capital is nestled beautifully on La Palma's east coast, and is dotted with museums and quaint churches. Do not miss the best vantage point for seeing Santa Cruz in its entirety at 17th century Santuario de la Virgen de las Nieves, and stroll down the Avenida Maritima to see its colourful, idyllic balconies festooned with plants and flowers.

It's a 3-kilometre uphill hike from Puerto de Tazacorte to this excellent viewing platform, from where sweeping vistas of the La Palma coastline and settlements unfold. There is a panoramic cafe serving refreshments at the top. The viewpoint can also be reached by car or public bus.

La Palma, shaped over millions of years by volcanic eruptions, is one of the few places in the world to have coal-black beaches. These are given their colour by lava rocks instead of ocean sand. The colour does not stain clothes and even boasts higher heat absorption, which allows one to relax on the beach at milder temperatures, too. Some of the most popular beaches are Playa de Santa Cruz de La Palma, Charco Verde Beach, Playa del faro de Fuencaliente and Playa de Nogales.

Wander off the beaten path and explore this deserted seaside village. Described as Palma's best kept secret, this remote village consists of quaint but abandoned fishermen's houses sandwiched into caves and cliffsides, overlooking crystal clear water perfect for swimming and diving.

Explore ancient lush green rainforests on the Cubo de la Galga hiking route. Beginning on the LP-1 highway in the east of the island, the starting point is easy to find. The route is 12 kilometres long and suitable for all experience levels. However, be warned that parts of this verdant, subtropical jungle are especially steep and slippery. Intrepid adventurers should choose the longer route, which connects to La Galga Mountain, and the viewpoint at San Bartolomé.

Follow the Barranco de las Angustias hiking route along the ravine boulders to reach Cascada de los Colores, a magical, rainbow-coloured waterfall. Cross Dos Aguas, a river with stepping stones, has fascinating geological formations and canyons. This walk is not for the faint-hearted, but those who undertake it will be rewarded with a one-of-a-kind experience. The walk begins at La Viña parking area.