The ‘beautiful Island’ winter sunshine spot with volcano tours, 22C heat & famous stargazing opportunities

TAKE a look at the incredible volcanic island that’s the perfect winter escape – and it’s only four hours from Dublin Airport.

The Canary Islands in Spain are always a popular destination.

La Palma is a volcanic island that is known for its beautiful forests, breathtaking sights, and stargazing opportunities.

The weather remains mild during the winter, with highs of 22C.

Though it should be noted that the mountains are much colder and windier, with frost and occasional snow falling on high routes.

While it’s famous with hikers, astronomers and people who want to immerse themselves in nature, it has something for everyone.

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The island is located off northwestern Africa and is dubbed “La Isla Bonita” which means the beautiful island – and it’s not hard to see why.

La Palma is dotted with volcanoes including Teneguia and Cumbre Vieja.

The capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is a port town with narrow cobbled streets and wooden balconies.

La Palma is a world-renowned stargazing location due to its clear night skies.

And it is also home to observatories, including Roque de los Muchachos.

VOLCANO HIKE

This is the island’s highest point, and offers breathtaking views across the caldera.

To visit the observatory, guests must book in advance.

It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its altitude and clear air, so it’s worth heading for a look at the stars when there.

The island is home to rich biodiversity, hiking trails, natural pools and charming towns.

For those who want to see the sights on foot, there are many hiking trails that take you through pine forests, ravines and even along volcanic ridges.

The Ruta de los Volcanes is a full-day ridge walk along the Cumbre Vieja volcano’s spine.

Here, hikers can see the breathtaking craters, lava fields and panoramas of the ocean.

The Fuencaliente walk is around the San Antonio and Teneguia volcanoes.

BLACK SAND BEACHES

From here, you can head to the Fuencaliente lighthouse and view the salt pans.

The Los Tilos and Marcos y Cordero offer a tunnel-trail adventure where you can see forest scenery, waterfalls and stunning natural beauty.

And for something unique, take a tour of the Caños de Fuego lava tube.

Here, a tour guide will bring you through a lava cave that was formed during the 2021 eruption.

One unique feature of the island is its black sand beaches at Playa de Nogales.

It is also home to a number of natural swimming holes including Charco Azul.

The island is also home to a naval museum, which is perfect for history buffs.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN NATURE

Or, head to the Caldera de Taburiente National Park which has a crater-shaped formation, and it is covered in pine forests and waterfalls.

Highlights include the Cascada de Colores and Mirador de la Cumbrecita, where you can view the stunning erosion crater and beautiful scenery.

This is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and brighten up your Instagram.

While there, try out some local delicacies including papas arrugadas with mojo, fresh fish and goat’s cheese.

You can also try the malvasía wines from Fuencaliente, and island‑grown bananas.

It spans just 708 square km, and is usually reached by ferry from other islands including Tenerife as flights are limited.