La Palma

Area: 728 sq.km/281 sq.mi

Population: 72,000

An international body has designated La Palma as one of the three most beautiful islands in the world, and it is easy to see why. The magnificent scenery and fascinating vegetation make an immediate appeal to all who explore the island, either on foot or by car. And because it lacks any large beaches it has remained largely unspoiled by mass tourism.

Topography

This heart-shaped island has a maximum length from north to south of 47km/29mi and a maximum breadth from east to west of 30km/19mi. Hills encircle the island, falling steeply down to the coast, with only a few coves with beaches of black sand to break the line of rugged cliffs. In the center of La Palma is