DE 
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ES If you travel to the Canary Island of La Palma, you will quickly notice: this island is different. It is wilder, greener, and more unspoiled than many other Canary Islands. But one event in particular has made the island known worldwide in recent years - the volcanic eruption in 2021 in the Cumbre Vieja region.
The eruption brought many changes, but at the same time, it created an entirely new landscape that now fascinates visitors from around the world. In this article, you will learn how the volcano changed the island and which places you absolutely must see today.
An island shaped by volcanoes
The Canary Islands are of volcanic origin. But on La Palma, you can see this origin particularly clearly. Lava fields, volcanic craters, and black sand beaches are found all over the island.
The south of the island is dominated by the Cumbre Vieja volcanic chain. It stretches over many kilometers and consists of numerous volcanoes that formed over millennia. Hikers and nature lovers love this area because it offers a spectacular landscape of ash fields, lava rock, and pine forests.
But in September 2021, one of the most impressive natural events in recent European history began here.
The 2021 volcanic eruption
On September 19, 2021, a new volcano suddenly opened in the Cumbre Vieja region. Lava fountains shot into the sky, and a lava flow slowly began moving toward the sea.
Over several weeks, the lava massively changed the landscape. Roads, banana plantations, and houses were overrun by the lava. At the same time, new land formed along the coast as the lava cooled.
The eruption lasted until December 13, 2021, attracting the attention of scientists, media, and travelers from all over the world. For many people, it was the first time they could follow a volcanic eruption in Europe so intensely.
Today, the volcano is quiet, but its traces are visible everywhere.
New landscapes formed from lava
If you travel to the west of La Palma today, you will see huge lava fields that formed during the eruption. These black landscapes almost seem like they belong to another planet.
The lava moved in thick streams through valleys and across fields, creating bizarre shapes. In some places, you can see how the lava solidified into waves or jagged rocks. For visitors, this is an impressive sight. Many viewpoints have now been set up so that the new volcanic landscape can be safely observed.
What is particularly fascinating is the contrast between the black lava and the green nature that is slowly returning.
Viewpoints around the Tajogaite
Volcano Mirador de Tajuya (Tajuya Viewpoint)
One of the most well-known and closest viewpoints to the volcano. From here you have an impressive panoramic view of the new volcano “Tajogaite” and the lava fields that stretch into the Aridane Valley. This point was also a gathering place for media during the eruption.
Mirador de Tacande (Tacande Viewpoint)
From here you can see very impressively how the lava poured into the landscape and how old roads and areas were overrun by the lava flow. Especially at sunset, this spot offers spectacular views of the lava fields and the volcano in the background.
Official Tajogaite Viewpoint (“Mirador Tajogaite”)
After the volcanic eruption, a safe, official viewpoint was set up from which you can clearly observe the volcano and the new landscape formations without entering restricted or dangerous zones.
Llano del Jable / Astronomical Viewpoint
Not directly a classic volcano mirador, but from here you have an open view of the volcanic landscape and at the same time an excellent place to enjoy the starry sky above the Cumbre Vieja. Especially when combined with an evening or night tour, it is a wonderful experience.
Nature reclaims the Lava
Even though the lava initially destroyed everything, nature is beginning to adapt surprisingly quickly. On La Palma, the first greenery is already growing again between the lava stones.
Small plants and lichens settle on the rock and prepare the ground for further vegetation. This process may take many years, but it clearly shows how resilient nature is.
For nature enthusiasts, it is particularly exciting to observe how a completely new landscape develops.
Hiking through the volcanic landscape
One of the best ways to experience the volcanic landscape is by going on a hike. Particularly popular is the so-called Volcano Route along the mountain ridge of the Cumbre Vieja.
Here you hike across ash fields, past old craters, and through pine forests. Again and again, spectacular views open up over the island and the Atlantic Ocean. Many hikers describe this route as one of the most impressive hikes in the Canary Islands.
Of course, you should inform yourself in advance about current trails and possible closures, as some areas around the new lava fields are still protected.
Hikes to the new Tajogaite Volcano
The hikes around the Tajogaite volcano, which erupted in 2021, are a real highlight on La Palma. You can experience the spectacular lava fields, crater landscapes, and dramatic lava flows up close.
Important: The area around the new volcano is restricted and may only be entered as part of guided tours. Local guides lead you safely through the landscape, explain the geological features, and show you the best photo spots.
Guided tours are available as short circular hikes or longer descent tours, sometimes combined with viewpoints such as Mirador de Tajuya or the Tacande viewpoint. This way you experience the volcanic landscape intensively, safely, and with fascinating background information.
More natural highlights on La Palma
Even away from the volcanic region, La Palma has an incredible amount of nature to offer. A real highlight is the Caldera de Taburiente National Park. It is a huge erosion crater with steep rock walls, pine forests, and deep ravines. Here you can go on fantastic hikes and discover the island’s impressive landscape.
Another highlight is the summit of Roque de los Muchachos. From here you have a spectacular view over the island and often even above the clouds.
One of the best places in the world for stargazing
One reason why many people travel to La Palma is the exceptionally clear sky. The island is considered one of the best places in Europe for stargazing. At the summit of Roque de los Muchachos there is a large observatory with numerous telescopes. Scientists from many countries use this location to explore space.
For visitors, the starry sky here is also an unforgettable experience. When you are in the mountains at night, you can often see thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and sometimes even shooting stars.
Why a trip to La Palma is especially worthwhile right now
After the volcanic eruption, tourism on La Palma has slowly recovered. Many visitors now come to the island precisely because of the new volcanic landscape. Tourism also helps support the local economy, which was heavily affected by the eruption.
If you love nature, enjoy hiking, or want to discover spectacular landscapes, this island is a perfect travel destination. Here you can experience how powerful nature can be - and how quickly it renews itself.
The right accommodation on La Palma
On La Palma, the range of accommodation goes from holiday apartments in Puerto Naos or Los Cancajos to quiet villas and holiday homes in the interior of the island. Many accommodations are located close to nature with sea views or centrally in the towns. Thanks to the short distances on the island, almost every accommodation is a good starting point for excursions, hikes, or beach days.
Are you ready to discover La Palma?
Then now is exactly the right moment to plan your next trip.
Our team knows the island personally and will help you find the right accommodation - whether directly by the sea, near hiking trails, or in the middle of nature. Let our experts advise you - we will guide you to your perfect La Palma holiday under the sun of the eternal spring!
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