Top 18 Gorges around Los Llanos De Aridane

The most prominent canyon is the Barranco de las Angustias, which serves as the natural drainage for the Caldera de Taburiente National Park. It's known for its steep, rocky walls and unique vegetation. Another impressive ravine is the Barranco del Jurado, featuring almost vertical walls up to 620 meters high and unique geological formations.

The Barranco de las Angustias is home to the Colorful Waterfall (Cascada de Colores), a vibrant, rainbow-colored waterfall whose hues come from minerals and algae. You'll also find the 'Dos Aguas' area where permanent streams from the Caldera de Taburiente merge, and extensive Canary Island Pine forests.

Yes, a popular and challenging route is the Descent into Barranco de las Angustias, which connects the Caldera de Taburiente with the Atlantic Ocean. Hikers often follow the stream bed, navigating varied terrain. The Las Angustias Gorge itself is a natural monument and a starting point for numerous routes.

The Barranco del Jurado is notable for its impressive, almost vertical walls and peculiar geological formations. It's also a Protected Natural Area, rich in biodiversity with unique flora and bird populations. A hiking route, PR LP 12.2, descends towards the sea, offering coastal access.

The canyons can be visited year-round, but caution is advised during winter or heavy rain due to potential flash floods, especially when hiking in stream beds like the Barranco de las Angustias. Generally, the spring and autumn months offer pleasant weather for exploration.

Within the Barranco de las Angustias, you can find the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de las Angustias, which houses a highly venerated image of the Virgin Mary on La Palma. Additionally, a paleontological site was discovered in 2020, providing evidence of a giant ancient lake.

Appropriate footwear is crucial, especially for routes like the Barranco de las Angustias where you might be walking in a stream bed. It's also advisable to carry plenty of water, as the terrain can be steep and exposed to the sun.

While some routes, like the full descent of Barranco de las Angustias, can be challenging, shorter sections or viewpoints might be suitable for families. Always check the specific trail difficulty and conditions before heading out with children.

The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including a difficult 13.8 km loop of Barranco de las Angustias. There are also challenging mountain hikes, such as the 19.6 km loop from Los Brecitos Viewpoint into the Barranco de las Angustias, and various cycling routes.

Public transport options exist to various points around Los Llanos de Aridane, which can get you closer to the canyon trailheads. For specific routes like the Barranco del Jurado, local bus services might connect from Los Llanos. It's recommended to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.

The canyons, particularly Barranco de las Angustias, expose the island's oldest basal geological materials, extensive plutonic rock zones, and a vast network of dikes and springs. These features offer a unique insight into La Palma's volcanic formation and geological history.