San Isidro
34km
+836m
2h30
fall, spring & summer
2/5*
Physical & technical
This itinerary takes you all around the Cumbre Vieja Natural Park in the south of the island. This park is formed by numerous volcanoes that you can observe from the trails. You can also climb them on foot or by mountain bike.
This ride mainly consists of wide dirt trails, which alternate between lava, mud, and black sand. There is some elevation gain, but nothing too steep, making the route accessible. However, even though it’s not very technical, be cautious on the black sand, especially during descents, as it’s easy to lose control.
Regarding the weather, La Palma has the typical climate of an island. Therefore, I advise you to bring a rain jacket or windbreaker, even if it’s 30 degrees at sea level. As you climb, you will encounter clouds that are trapped at a certain altitude. You will likely experience rain, as I did during my ride, and, more importantly, you may lose at least 10 degrees in temperature.
Sometimes with a volcano in the background, other times through a forest or a lava field, this gravel itinerary will take you on a journey through a magical and unexpected place for a day.
Note: There is no water source along this route.
Tips
Make sure to download the track onto your GPS device or phone before reaching the starting point (as there might not be much network coverage).
Download the MAPS.ME application and the Canary Islands map. This way, you’ll have access to the map even in areas with no network coverage.
Best Addresses
(*tested)
RESTAURANTS
Re-Belle*
Cuisine européenne
Ca´Yeya Café*
café, tapas, grillades
El Asador del Campesino*
grillades, poisson, viande
Kudasai*
sushis, bowls
El Sitio*
cuisine canarienne
Pizzería Il Ghiottone*
pizzeria
Banana Garden*
brunch, coffee, pastries
ACCOMMODATIONS
Hacienda de Abajo*
Hôtel
Hacienda de San Jorge*
Hôtel
Banana Garden*
Hôtel
Faro Punta Cumplida*
Hôtel
ACTIVITIES
Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente
hike
Observatory de Roque de los Muchachos
Observatory
Cascada de Los Tilos
waterfall
Mirador de La Cumbrecita
point de vue
Black sand beach
beach
Culinary Specialties / Local Products
- Sancocho - canarian typical fish dish
- Le fromage Palmero - goat cheese
- Le Gofio
- Bienmesabe - dessert
- Príncipe alberto - dessert