La Palma BREÑA BAJA 2019 - HF Holidays
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La Palma BREÑA BAJA 2019
WELCOME TO
La Palma
Discover one of the lesser known Canary Islands, La Palma. The island sits
northwest of Tenerife, north of smaller El Hierro, and is geologically similar
to both. These three western islands, plus La Gomera, are relatively young
compared to the eastern islands, and were the product of volcanic eruptions
from the ocean floor 3 to 4 million years ago.
On La Palma, the original volcano collapsed half to its stunningly beautiful national park focussed
a million years ago to create the landscape we on the volcanic ridge. Also known as ‘La Isla Bonita’,
see today, dominated by the huge Caldera de this island is a green, walkers’ paradise with over
Taburiente, which provides the diverse landscapes 1,000km of paths and lush vegetation and volcanic
of several of our walks. The island is widely regarded geology creating amazing views at every turn.
as the steepest island in the world and has become a Santa Cruz de la Palma (or simply Santa Cruz) is the
mecca for star-gazers, due to its dark skies and row island’s atmospheric capital and was founded in 1493.
of observatories, which sit high above the clouds. The city features the only notable port on the island,
Like its neighbours, the island enjoys a warm, with an array of colourful colonial buildings, many of
pleasant climate all year round. However, unlike which feature photogenic flower-filled balconies.
some of the larger Canary Islands, teardrop shaped Our base in Breña Baja is just a short journey from
La Palma is relatively untouched by mass tourism Santa Cruz, the airport and the tunnel connecting
and offers a fantastic walking escape in winter and the east side of the island to the west. Due to this
spring as well as incredibly varied terrain, from pine central location we can easily explore the best La
forests, coastal walking and agricultural plantations Palma has to offer on our walks.
2 | Call 020 8732 1250 or visit hfholidays.co.uk
ACCOMMODATION ideal for a quiet read. There is also a games room
with card tables. Outside is a swimming pool (open
PARADOR DE LA PALMA when weather permits) with some seating. Inside
Ctra. el Zumacal, 38710 Breña Baja is a small gym and sauna. Free Wi-Fi is available
Tel: 0034 922 43 58 28
throughout the hotel.
The Parador de la Palma is located in an area
MEALS
of great scenic beauty, close to the capital of
the island, Santa Cruz, and just a short journey All our holidays include breakfast and evening meal.
from the airport, within the municipal area of The hotel caters for most dietary requirements; we
Breña Baja. The Parador building is modern, but advise you to discuss your requirements with the
incorporates traditional Canary Island architecture restaurant staff on arrival.
and is furnished with attractive antique furniture. Breakfast
It has an extensive garden of 44 hectares, home Buffet breakfast is served 7.30-10.30am
to native plants and fruit trees, identified by their consisting of a wide selection of hot and cold
scientific names. The paths that thread through items, including traditional Spanish items and eggs
the gardens make a delightful stroll in the evening. cooked to order.
BEDROOMS Evening meal
Most of the 78 bedrooms offer our guests This is a three course meal served at your table.
splendid sea views from their balconies. The The restaurant specialises in the local dishes but
rooms are furnished comfortably with TV, does have international dishes on the menu as
telephone, safe deposit box, en-suite bathroom well. They also serve fresh, grilled or poached
with complimentary toiletries, hairdryer, fishes, accompanied by a good “mojo” (typical
air- conditioning and minibar (charged). Canary Island sauce).
FACILITIES Lunch
Entering the hotel, a large reception area leads The hotel can supply a picnic lunch, which should be
to an attractive traditional central courtyard with ordered the evening before. Alternatively, it is possible
shaded seating surrounding a small garden. At to buy ingredients from local shops, the nearest being
reception there is a mini shop selling essentials. approximately a 1km walk away in San Jose or San
There is a comfortable bar area, an elegant dining Antonio. Some days it may be possible to eat at one
room with outside patio area, serving traditional of the local cafés; your leaders will advise you of the
Canary Island produce, and a lovely sitting room, options.
Call 020 8732 1250 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 3
Guided Walking
ITINERARY
A unique feature of our Guided Walking holidays is the daily choice of walks.
Each evening your leaders will give a short talk about the options for the next
day and answer any questions that you may have.
La Palma offers more challenging mountain walks provisional and could be subject to change. For
than other islands in the Canaries. You’ll have a the most up to date information and more details,
choice of two guided walks on each walking day. please check our website.
The cost of the transport to and from your walks A finalised itinerary will be available at the resort
each day is included in the cost of your holiday and your leaders will talk every evening about the
Please note that the itinerary outlined below is next day’s walks.
Easier Walks: 5 to 8 miles (8-13km) Harder Walks: 7 to 11 miles (11-
on a mix of rocky and cobbled 17.5km) with some steep ascents
paths, with some steep ascents and descents. There are also
and descents. Up to 1,200 feet some rocky sections. Up to 3,200
(360m) of ascent in a day. feet (960m) of ascent in a day.
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Day 1: Arrival day Cumbrecita down into the Caldera de Taburiente
On the first evening your leaders will explain more and upwards to the rim of the caldera, before
about the walks. descending through the El Riachuelo valley.
Day 2: Southern Volcanoes Easier Walk: The first section of this panoramic
Today both groups explore the southern tip of La circuit follows an almost level track with good
Palma which is the site of the most recent views. We then reach a viewpoint at the Mirador
volcanic activity. de Los Roques. From La Cumbrecita there are
Easier Walk: This walk starts from the southern good views back down the El Riachuelo valley.
town of Los Canarios to ascend Volcan San Leaving La Cumbrecita we walk down the quiet
Antonio and visit the visitor centre. The route access road into the lower El Riachuelo valley. We
then descends through the volcanic lava fields then follow rough forest trails ascending to reach
before emerging at sea level in Faro de tracks below the Cumbre Nueva before
Fuencaliente. At the end of the walk there is time continuing on pleasant forest trails to reach the
to explore the only commercial salt pans on La Ermita de la Virgen del Pino. 7½ miles (12km) with
Palma and enjoy refreshments. 6 miles (9½km) ascent of 1,000 feet (300m) and 2,000 feet
with ascent 100 feet (30m) and descent 2,300 (600m) of descent.
feet (690m). Harder Walk: After enjoying the magnificent
Harder Walk: The harder walk starts on the views on the circuit of La Cumbrecita, we
southwestern side of the island and follows the descend a narrow path that contours high above
Camino Real (GR130) with good coastal views to the El Riachuelo valley, below the cliffs of the
reach Los Canarios. The route then follows the Cumbre Nueva. Descending into the lower valley,
same path as the easier walk to arrive at Faro de the rough path then skirts around the edge of
Fuencaliente for refreshments. 9 miles (14½km) farmland ascending onto the ridge of Lomo de
with 800 feet (240m) of ascent and 3,200 feet Padron. Joining a track, we make our way down to
(960m) of descent. the Ermita de la Virgen del Pino to meet the
Day 3: Ancient Laurel forests and the coach. 6½ miles (10½km) with ascent 1,300 feet
north-east coast (400m) and 2,700 feet (800m) of descent
Today both groups will explore the laurel forest of Day 5: Free day
La Galga and part of the northeast coast, with
spectacular views from Mirador de la Somada Alta. Each week there is a free day when no guided
Easier Walk: The easier walk explores the laurel walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to
forests behind La Galga. The route ascends to the relax around the hotel, walk independently or visit
Mirador de la Somada Alta before beginning the local places of interest. Some options for your
descent into the depths of the laurel forest. The free day may include:
high sides of the ravine restrict the light to the Hotel: Relax in the hotel, swim in the pool and
valley floor creating a magical walk through the lush take lunch on the patio.
ferns and mosses. Emerging from the ravine, we Santa Cruz: Visit nearby Santa Cruz. Walk around
descend to San Bartolome for lunch in a local bar, the cobbled streets in the old quarter where there
followed by a tour of the village and a viewpoint are traditional buildings with wooden carved
before travelling to the attractive village of San balconies festooned with brightly coloured
Andrès. 6 miles (9½km) with ascent 1,200 feet flowers. You can walk to the colourful market,
(360m). have lunch in one of the many restaurants and
Harder Walk: The harder walk also explores the walk along the promenade round the harbour.
laurel forests, ascending to the Mirador de la
Somada Alta before a descent to lunch in San For information on La Palma, please visit
Bartolome. We then descend to the coast to reach www.hellocanaryislands.com
a cliff path (GR130). The cliff path continues Day 6: Caldera de Taburiente rim
through banana plantations to finally reach San
Accompanied by a local guide, these walks take us
Andrès and welcome refreshments. 8 miles (13km)
to the highest point on the island. The summit
with ascent 1,700 feet (510m) and 3,500 feet
area is home to many international observatories,
(1,050m).
located here due to the ‘dark skies’ of La Palma.
Day 4: Mirador de la Cumbrecite and
Easier Walk: The walk will usually enjoy the
the El Riachuelo Valley magnificent views from the highest point on the
Today takes us to the heart of the Taburiente island, Roque de las Muchachos (2,426m) and
National Park. On a clear day we will be able to
enjoy stunning views from the Mirador de la Call 020 8732 1250 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 5
follow sections of the GR131 along the rim of the of 1,000 feet (300m) and 2,100 feet (630m) of
Caldera de Taburiente. Up to 4½ miles (7km) with descent.
500 feet (150m) of ascent and 2,200 feet (660m) of Harder Walk: The harder walk starts from the
descent.
Refugio del Pilar and follows forest tracks to
Harder Walk: The harder walk will also enjoy the circuit Pico Birigoyo and ascends onto the ridge of
magnificent views from the highest point on the the Volcano Route. We then follow the Volcano
island, Roque de las Muchachos (2,426m), and Route to view the crater del Hoyo Negro and
follow more of the GR131 along the rim of the ascend Pico Nambroque to enjoy stunning views
Caldera de Taburiente across Pico de la Cruz and southwards along the ridge. Returning
Pico de la Nieve before descending the eastern northwards, we follow the GR131 back along the
slopes through pine forests to meet the coach. Up
Volcano Route descending to the Refugio del Pilar
to 7 miles (11km) with ascent 1,300 feet (400m)
where we meet the coach for a transfer to meet
and 3,300 feet (990m) of descent.
the easier walkers for a final drink. 9½ miles
Day 7: The Volcano ridge and lava fields (15km) with 2,300 feet (700m) of ascent.
of the Taburiente National Park Day 8: Departure day
Today, we travel to the centre of this beautiful
island where we can appreciate its volcanic geology.
Easier Walk: The easier walk ascends through
enchanting woodlands on tracks used for centuries In the evenings
to cross from east to west on the island to the The friendly atmosphere of our Guided
significant north-south intersection at Refugio del Walking holidays continues into the evening.
Pilar, a popular camping and recreational spot. It We’ll enjoy a leisurely meal and you may also
then descends on rough paths across the drier like to join your leader for an evening stroll in
western slopes and lava fields of Montana the gardens, enjoy a drink at the bar with your
Quemada to finish with refreshments at a bar on fellow walkers or relax with a book in a quiet
the outskirts of El Paso. 7 miles (11km) with ascent lounge.
6 | Call 020 8732 1250 or visit hfholidays.co.uk
WALKING
INFORMATION
Your walking leaders: HF Holidays’ leaders are a who will accompany you on a walk to enrich and
pivotal feature of our Guided Walking holidays. enhance your enjoyment of the area by giving you
During the day they will guide you on the walks in an insight into its history and culture. Tips for local
a caring and considerate way, showing you places interest guides have not been included in the price
of interest en route. All our leaders have been of your holiday. This is at your own discretion and
selected on an intensive residential course so we invite you to do this directly with the local guide.
you can relax and enjoy your holiday knowing that Maps: Your leaders will of course carry all the maps
you are in safe hands. Our leaders welcome your and detailed walk instructions needed for the
comments on the holiday survey; constructive walks. The map available for this area are La Palma
suggestions for things that they might do Tour & Trail map: 1:40,000.
differently are very helpful. Maps can be obtained by mail order from
We take pride in the quality of our holidays and The Map Shop, tel: 0800 0854080 or visit
work closely with all our providers to ensure our www.themapshop.co.uk.
holidays meet your expectations. If for any reason Children: We welcome unaccompanied children
you are not satisfied with any element of your of 14 or over on our walks on the basis that they
holiday, our leaders are the best people to help. can take full responsibility for themselves. Children
Local interest guides: In some of our resorts we under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an
may employ the services of a local interest guide adult.
Call 020 8732 1250 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 7Your health: It is essential that you describe on
WALKING your guest registration form any health condition
or disability you may have. The leaders will treat this
SAFETY confidentially and may be able to take it into account
We are committed to running our Guided Walking on the walks; for example, by not delaying lunch if
holidays in a safe manner and your co-operation they know they have someone with diabetes in their
with this is much appreciated. No outdoor activity party.
can be 100% risk free; however, if you take sensible EU citizens should ensure they have a European
precautions and adhere to your leaders’ instructions, Health Insurance Card (EHIC) prior to their holiday.
your holiday will be both safe and enjoyable. On the There can be problems with medical authorities and
first evening of your holiday (dependent on arrival insurance companies if you cannot produce this
time), the leaders will give a short talk about safety when you require treatment – details are available at
on the walks – we would ask everyone to attend. dh.gov. uk/travellers EHIC cards have an expiry
Walking as a group: Our leaders always consider date – please check yours is valid before you travel.
the safety of the group as a whole, and will show Insurance: Insurance is a condition of booking.
more caution over potential risks (such as bad or Therefore if you have not already arranged
exceptionally hot weather) than an individual or insurance, it is imperative that you do so, and
couple might make on a private outing. Walks may advise us of the insurance company and policy
be modified or cancelled following the leaders’ number.
assessment of the day-to-day situation. Your Even with an EHIC card, medicines and out-patient
leaders will refuse to accept any guest whose treatment normally have to be paid for at the
clothing, equipment, behaviour or walking ability is time and the costs reclaimed afterwards – details
considered unsuitable, and where it could affect are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. Therefore
the safety and enjoyment of other guests on the insurance is extremely important, as is access to
proposed walk. It is your responsibility to follow the emergency money, preferably a credit card.
leader’s guidelines, for the benefit and safety of the
group as a whole. If you leave the group, then your
leader will no longer have responsibility for you. HOLIDAY TIPS
For safety reasons, we stipulate a minimum party Language: Spanish
size of two guests in addition to the leader. Currency: Euro
First aid: In line with current practice, each leader Changing money: There are several ATM
carries a group first aid kit but is not able to supply machines in Santa Cruz where you can obtain
any ‘medication’, including aspirin, paracetamol, money.
antihistamines and antiseptic cream.
Electricity: 220 Volt AC with round two pin plugs;
Hydration: In warm weather it is very important to you will need an adaptor for any appliances
keep hydrated. You will need to carry a minimum of brought from the UK.
two litres of water with you on walks, more during
Tap water: Is considered safe to drink, but if you
hot weather or on more demanding walks.
prefer, bottled mineral water can be purchased
One good way of hydrating is to use a two litre from the hotel or local supermarkets.
hydration pack which allows drinking without
Telephone code: If the international number
constant stopping. This can then be filled up from
you wish to call starts with a 0, you must drop the
additional water sources as required. Your leader will
starting digit when dialling the number.
inform you of the possibilities for replenishing your
water during the walks. To dial a UK number 0044
To dial a Spanish number 0034
8 | Call 020 8732 1250 or visit hfholidays.co.ukWHAT TO WEAR & BRING
To enjoy your walking comfortably and safely, it is • spare high-energy food e.g. chocolate bar or Kendal
essential that your footwear, clothing and equipment mint cake
are suitable for the conditions likely to be encountered. • torch
Please note that some of our Atlantic island and You may also wish to consider bringing:
Mediterranean destinations are also in mountainous • camera
areas and at high (up to 4,000ft) the temperatures can
• personal first aid kit
be as low as 0°C. You will need:
• walking pole(s) – many guests find these useful,
• comfortable outdoor clothing • particularly for descents
• ankle supporting footwear with non-slip soles
• water bottle (at least 2 litres, more for hot climates) FOOTWEAR
and a thermos flask if you wish We recommend wearing walking boots on all our walks,
• sunhat, sun cream and sunglasses as these provide the best ankle support
• small rucksack and grip. Modern ‘approach shoes’ offer appropriate
The following are also recommended to all walkers, and levels of grip and may be worn on some low
are essential for mountainous and hilly areas: level walks, but users should be aware that they offer
• walking boots less ankle support.
• spare pullover or fleece Lightweight trainers, denim jeans and waterproof capes
• hat and gloves are not recommended for any walks.
TRANSFER INFORMATION
If you have booked your holiday ‘with flight’ you will arrive at La Palma Airport Airport. From the UK we
offer flights from several airports which may arrive at different times.
Please note that meals are not provided on most European flights, although some airlines may offer a
small snack.
Where possible you will be met in the arrivals hall by an HF Holidays’ leader. Please look out for their
distinctive clipboard and badge. Occasionally we will ask our transfer coach company to meet you.
The driver will be in the arrivals hall holding an ‘HF Holidays’ sign.
The onward journey to Breña Baja by coach takes approximately 20 minutes.
For independent travellers: For guests who have booked their holiday ‘without flight’ HF Holidays can
help you to reach the hotel in the following ways:
HF Holidays’ transfer coach from La Palma Airport airport. These are timed to meet the HF Holidays’
flights (provisional HF Holidays’ flight times can be found on www.hfholidays.co.uk or by calling
+44 (0)20 8732 1220). Cost per single journey is £6. Please note that HF Holidays is not responsible
for your onward travel if you fail to meet the transfer coach under any circumstance.
Our Airport Taxi service service operates at this resort, offering quick and easy transfers for guests
booking their own flights. All prices are per taxi for single journeys, allowing you to mix and match
different transfer options. From La Palma Airport by taxi transfer £15 per taxi single journey
Transfers and taxis must be pre-booked. If you have not already booked your transfer or taxi please
call +44 (0)20 8732 1220.
Airport parking and accommodation
If you require airport parking or accommodation before your flight, we
recommend our partner Holiday Extras. Call 0871 360 2750 and quote
HX031 or book online at holidayextras.co.uk/hfholidays
Call 020 8732 1250 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 9linger a little
LONGER
Two weeks or more Discovery or Garden Tours, Photography, Painting,
Make the most of your break and enjoy a longer or Yoga.
holiday – either two weeks of walking at one Worldwide
resort or by combining complementary holidays, From Alaska to Vietnam our Worldwide Journeys
such as Tenerife and Lanzarote. We arrange the invite you to explore world famous destinations,
transfers between the resorts so that you don’t and some lesser known gems, on six continents
have to. See our brochure or website for more including Europe.
information.
Self-guided Walking
For those who prefer to explore independently,
on our Self-guided Walking holidays, in selected
European destinations, you can discover
unspoiled scenery, historic sites and the local
culture at your own pace by following our carefully
planned walking routes.
Leisure Activities
We offer a range of Leisure Activities holidays
at some of our European destinations, including
SAVE ON OUTDOOR CLOTHING
From time to time our outdoor clothing partners have special offers for our guests.
Visit hfholidays.co.uk/partnerships to see the current offers.
10 | Call 020 8732 1250 or visit hfholidays.co.ukRECOMMEND A FRIEND JOIN US TODAY
AND SAVE UP TO £50 AND BENEFIT
TOMORROW
Do you know someone who would enjoy our
HF Holidays is the only UK holiday
holidays as much as you do? Invite them to
provider that’s a co-operative. We’re
book a holiday and you’ll receive up to £50!
owned by our members who help shape
If you recommend HF Holidays to a friend, our business for future generations.
who then makes their first ever booking with Join our award-winning and sociably
us, we’ll give you £50 off your next 7 night responsible society that’s passionate
holiday or £30 off your next 3 or 4 night short about helping others to enjoy holidays in
break. Plus as a welcome, we’ll give your beautiful countryside.
friend, or friends, up to £50 off their holiday
For a minimum purchase of 100 £1 shares
too, meaning savings for everyone!
you can benefit from:
M
embers’ loyalty scheme – earn points
Claim up to £50 in three easy steps…
on your holidays and use as a discount on
When your friend books a holiday, ask your next holiday
them to mention your name, address M
ember-only events and holidays
and the ‘Recommend a Friend’ scheme M
embers come first with advance
at the same time. registration for the holiday you want
1
0% discount at our country house bars
I f they have never been on holiday with
1
5% discount at Cotswold Outdoor
us, we’ll give them a discount of up to
1
5% discount at Rohan
£50 per person.
2
5% discount at Hi-Tec
We’ll send you a voucher for up to £50 A
nnual interest on your shares
off a future HF Holidays’ break for each
friend you have recommended. ALREADY A MEMBER?
There are many ways for you to further
Terms & conditions apply, visit hfholidays.co.uk/raf for details. your support:
Help choose our Board
Attend member events
Encourage others to join us
Increase your shares at any time
T
op up to 1,000 shares to become an
investment member with
PATHWAYS FUND enhanced benefits
Last year guests donated £19,500 to our Give membership as a gift
Pathways Fund and we spent £25,000 on projects.
For more information on the projects the
Pathways Fund has supported, plus how to
donate, please visit hfholidays.co.uk/pathways
HF Holidays continues to work in partnership with
the Family Holiday Association to provide Feel To join or increase your investment call
Good Breaks – designed to reward families who our Membership team on
could not otherwise afford it with the gift of a 0208 732 1290,
break in the outdoors and the chance to spend email membership@hfholidays.co.uk
quality time together. Help us continue this work or visit hfholidays.co.uk/membership
by donating to the Pathways Fund.
Call 020 8732 1250 or visit hfholidays.co.uk | 11Contact details HF Holidays Ltd Catalyst House 720 Centennial Court Centennial Park Elstree Borehamwood, WD6 3SY hfholidays.co.uk For any questions before your holiday, we’re here to help, so please contact us on: +44 (0)20 8732 1250 Monday-Friday: 9am-7pm. Email: info@hfholidays.co.uk Emergency contact details: In all instances during your holiday, your first point of contact should be our HF Holidays’ leaders. If for any reason this is not possible, HF Holidays’ emergency contact details are as above or between the hours of Friday 7pm to Monday 9am are: +44 (0)7918 737777 or emergency@hfholidays.co.uk
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