La Palma BREÑA BAJA 2018
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 a million years ago to create the landscape we see today, dominated by the huge Caldera de Taburiente, which provides the diverse landscapes of several of our walks. The island is widely regarded as the steepest island in the world and has become a mecca for star- gazers, due to its dark skies and row of observatories, which sit high above the clouds. Like its neighbours, the island enjoys a warm, pleasant climate all year round. However, unlike some of the larger Canary Islands, teardrop shaped La Palma is relatively untouched by mass tourism and offers a fantastic walking escape in winter and spring as well as incredibly varied terrain, from pine forests, coastal walking and agricultural plantations 2 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk to its stunningly beautiful national park focussed on the volcanic ridge. Also known as La Isla Bonita, this island is a green, walkers paradise with over 1,000km of paths and lush vegetation and volcanic geology creating amazing views at every turn. Santa Cruz de la Palma (or simply Santa Cruz) is the island s atmospheric capital and was founded in 1493. The city features the only notable port on the island, with an array of colourful colonial buildings, many of which feature photogenic flower - filled balconies. Our base in Breña Baja is just a short journey from Santa Cruz, the airport and the tunnel connecting the east side of the island to the west. Due to this central location we can easily explore the best La Palma has to offer on our walks.
ACCOMMODATION PARADOR DE LA PALMA Ctra. el Zumacal, 38710 Breña Baja Tel: 0034 922 43 58 28 The Parador de la Palma is located in an area of great scenic beauty, close to the capital of the island, Santa Cruz, and just a short journey from the airport, within the municipal area of Breña Baja. The Parador building is modern, but incorporates traditional Canary Island architecture and is furnished with attractive antique furniture. It has an extensive garden of 44 hectares, home to native plants and fruit trees, identified by their scientific names. The paths that thread through the gardens make a delightful stroll in the evening. BEDROOMS Most of the 78 bedrooms offer our guests splendid sea views from their balconies. The rooms are furnished comfortably with TV, telephone, safe deposit box, en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries, hairdryer, air- conditioning and minibar (charged). FACILITIES Entering the hotel, a large reception area leads to an attractive traditional central courtyard with shaded seating surrounding a small garden. At reception there is a mini shop selling essentials There is a comfortable bar area, an elegant dining room with outside patio area, serving traditional Canary Island produce, and a lovely sitting room, ideal for a quiet read. There is also a games room with card tables. Outside is a swimming pool (open when weather permits) with some seating. Inside is a small gym and sauna. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. MEALS All our holidays include breakfast and evening meal. The hotel caters for most dietary requirements; we advise you to discuss your requirements with the restaurant staff on arrival. Breakfast Buffet breakfast is served 7.30-10.30am consisting of a wide selection of hot and cold items, including traditional Spanish items and eggs cooked to order. Evening meal This is a three course meal served at your table. The restaurant specialises in the local dishes but does have international dishes on the menu as well. They also serve fresh, grilled or poached fishes, accompanied by a good mojo (typical Canary Island sauce). Lunch The hotel can supply a picnic lunch, which should be ordered the evening before. Alternatively it is possible to buy ingredients from local shops, the nearest being approximately a 1km walk away in San Jose or San Antonio. Some days it may be possible to eat at one of the local cafés; your leaders will advise you of the options. Call 0345 470 7558 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 than other islands in the Canaries. You ll have a choice of two guided walks on each walking day. The cost of the transport to and from your walks each day is included in the cost of your holiday Please note that the itinerary outlined below is Easier Walks: 5 to 8 miles (8-13km) on a mix of rocky and cobbled paths, with some steep ascents and descents. Up to 1,200ft (360m) of ascent in a day. 4 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk provisional and could be subject to change. For the most up to date information and more details, please check our website. A finalised itinerary will be available at the resort and your leaders will talk every evening about the next day s walks. Harder Walks: 7 to 11 miles (1117.5km) with some steep ascents and descents. There are also some rocky sections. Up to 3,200ft (900m) of ascent in a day.
Day 1: Arrival day On the first evening your leaders will explain more about the walks. Day 2: Springs of Breña Baja The east and west sides of La Palma differ dramatically due to the influence of the moisture laden trade winds. Today s walks explore the springs high on the hillside behind the hotel in the Breña Alta district. Easier Walk: The easier walk uses a coach to ascend to the spring line, and then follows the well used path, mostly contouring the east-facing slopes of the Cumbre Nueva before descending through the community of San Miguel back to the hotel. The route weaves in and out of magnificent chestnut tree groves and offers expansive views of the coast. 5 miles (8km) with ascent 1,100ft (330m). Harder Walk: The harder walk starts from the hotel and uses a section of an ancient cobbled track that was part of the major east west route across the island, before passing several crosses to reach the Breña springs, and so returning to the hotel by the same route as the easier walk. 8 miles (13km) with ascent 2,200ft (660m). Day 3: Southern volcanoes Easier Walk: The easier walk starts from the southern town of Los Canarios to ascend Volcan San Antonio, complemented by a visit to the visitor centre. The route descends through the lava fields seeking evidence of early inhabitants, before emerging at sea level in Faro de Fuencaliente. Here there s time to explore the only commercial salt pans on La Palma and seek refreshments. 6 miles (9.5km) with ascent 700ft (210m) and descent 3,000ft (900m). Harder Walk: Ascend on good track winding up through pine forest. You will walk past a stone monolith and descend into Los Canarios. The follow the Route Los Volcanes which descends past Volcan de San Antonio to the Visitors Centre. The path then steeply zigzags through vine terraces eventually leading to a white rock promontory. We then turn onto a reservoir service track crossing a parking area. We continue on GR131 which descends around lava flows and eventually salt pans and lighthouse come into view which is the end of our walk. 9 miles (14.5km) with 900ft (270m) of ascent and 3,300ft (990m) of descent. Day 4: The north-east coast Today both groups will explore the northeast coast, with spectacular views from Mirador de la Somada Alta. Easier Walk: The easier walk explores the deep lush ravine behind La Galga. It s the sister of the Los Tilos area further north and off the tourist track. The route ascends to the Mirador de la Somada Alta before beginning the descent into the depths of the laurel forest. The sides of the ravine are now high above, restricting the light views of the northeast coast. 6 miles (9.5km) with ascent 1,200ft (360m). Harder Walk: The harder walk explores the northeast coast, south from the Ermita de San Juan, through banana plantations and citrus groves with views to rugged cliffs below. It then ascends to the Mirador de la Montana before exploring the laurel forests of Cubo de la Galga. 8 miles (13km) with ascent 2,400ft (720m). Day 5: Free day Each week there is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax around the hotel, walk independently or visit local places of interest. Some options for your free day may include: Hotel: Relax in the hotel, swim in the pool and take lunch on the patio. Santa Cruz: Visit nearby Santa Cruz. Walk around the cobbled streets in the old quarter where there are the traditional buildings with wooden carved balconies festooned with brightly coloured flowers. You can walk to the colourful market, have lunch in one of the many restaurants and walk along the promenade round the harbour. Car hire: Hire a car for the day and explore this island further. Drive through the central tunnel and visit the west coast or head south and visit the salt pan area. For information on La Palma, please visit www.hellocanaryislands.com Day 6: The northeast coast These walks take us to the highest point on the island, and at times wind chill can mean temperatures near freezing, so come prepared with sufficient clothing to enjoy the day to its full, including full waterproofs, hat and gloves. Easier Walk: The walk starts below the with the possibility of the iconic panoramas looking down on the clouds, pierced by the distant peaks of Tenerife. The route allowsthe summit of Pico de La Cruz and continue to the mirador Degollada de Franceses. Here we re-board the bus that takes us to the highest point on the island, Roque de los Muchachos, with time to take a short path to a mirador for views not seen previously down into Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk 5
the caldera. 7 miles (11km) with ascent 1,500ft (450m). Harder Walk: The harder walk starts amongst the pines of the eastern approaches ascending through them to the summit of Pico de la Nieve. Then we traverse the caldera rim finishing at the highest point of the island, Roque de los Muchachos (2,426m). The stunning views should come as no surprise since they appear on many postcards. The dramatic geology is ever present and gives rise to more than one legend. The silver domes of the many telescopes, built on La Palma due to its reliable visibility, provide an incongruous backdrop for the final ascent. 6 miles (9.5km) with ascent 3,100ft (930m). Day 7: Lava fields of the Taburiente National Park 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 to cross from east to west on the island to the significant north-south intersection at Refugio de El Pilar, a popular camping and recreational spot. It then descends through the drier western slopes and lava fields of Montana 6 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk Quemada to the National Park Visitor Centre. There is an option to extend the walk to the old silk industry town of El Paso, a fitting end to the week, with its old church, courtyards and bars. Without extension 5 miles (8km) with ascent of 1,000ft (300m). Harder Walk: The harder walk follows the same route as the easier walk initially to Refugio de El Pilar. The route then ascends Pico Birigoyo (1,807m), an old volcano with 360 views of the island, descending to follow the easier route through the western slopes and lava fields of Montana Quemada to the National Park Visitor Centre and on to El Paso. 10 miles (16km) with 2,600ft (780m) of ascent. Day 8: Departure day In the evenings The friendly atmosphere of our Guided Walking holidays continues into the evening. We ll enjoy a leisurely meal and you may also like to join your leader for an evening stroll in the gardens, enjoy a drink at the bar with your fellow walkers or relax with a book in a quiet lounge.
WALKING INFORMATION Your walking leaders: HF Holidays leaders are a pivotal feature of our Guided Walking holidays. During the day they will guide you on the walks in a caring and considerate way, showing you places of interest en route. All our leaders have been selected on an intensive residential course so you can relax and enjoy your holiday knowing that you are in safe hands. Our leaders welcome your comments on the holiday survey; constructive suggestions for things that they might do differently are very helpful. We take pride in the quality of our holidays and work closely with all our providers to ensure our holidays meet your expectations. If for any reason you are not satisfied with any element of your holiday, our leaders are the best people to help. Local interest guides: In some of our resorts we may employ the services of a local interest guide who will accompany you on a walk to enrich and enhance your enjoyment of the area by giving you an insight into its history and culture. Tips for local interest guides have not been included in the price of your holiday. This is at your own discretion and we invite you to do this directly with the local guide. Maps: Your leaders will of course carry all the maps and detailed walk instructions needed for the walks. The maps available for this area are La Palma Tour & Trail map: 1:40,000 (ISBN 9781904946922). Maps can be obtained by mail order from The Map Shop, tel: 0800 0854080 or visit www.themapshop.co.uk. Children: We welcome unaccompanied children of 14 or over on our walks on the basis that they can take full responsibility for themselves. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk 7
WALKING SAFETY We are committed to running our Guided Walking holidays in a safe manner and your co-operation with this is much appreciated. No outdoor activity can be 100% risk free; however, if you take sensible precautions and adhere to your leaders instructions, your holiday will be both safe and enjoyable. On the first evening of your holiday (dependent on arrival time), the leaders will give a short talk about safety on the walks we would ask everyone to attend. Walking as a group: Our leaders always consider the safety of the group as a whole, and will show more caution over potential risks (such as bad or exceptionally hot weather) than an individual or couple might make on a private outing. Walks may be modified or cancelled following the leaders assessment of the day-to-day situation. Your leaders will refuse to accept any guest whose clothing, equipment, behaviour or walking ability is considered unsuitable, and where it could affect the safety and enjoyment of other guests on the proposed walk. It is your responsibility to follow the 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. For safety reasons, we stipulate a minimum party size of two guests in addition to the leader. First aid: In line with current practice, each leader carries a group first aid kit but is not able to supply any medication, including aspirin, paracetamol, antihistamines and antiseptic cream. Hydration: In warm weather it is very important to keep hydrated. You will need to carry a minimum of two litres of water with you on walks, more during hot weather or on more demanding walks. One good way of hydrating is to use a two litre hydration pack which allows drinking without constant stopping. This can then be filled up from additional water sources as required. Your leader will inform you of the possibilities for replenishing your water during the walks. Your health: It is essential that you describe on your guest registration form any health condition or disability you may have. The leaders will treat this confidentially and may be able to take it into account on the walks; for example, by not delaying lunch if they know they have someone with diabetes in their party. EU citizens should ensure they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) prior to their holiday. There can be problems with medical authorities and 8 Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk insurance companies if you cannot produce this when you require treatment details are available at dh.gov. uk/travellers EHIC cards have an expiry date please check yours is valid before you travel. Insurance: Insurance is a condition of booking. Therefore if you have not already arranged insurance, it is imperative that you do so, and advise us of the insurance company and policy number. We have negotiated special holiday insurance and full details of this cover can be found in our brochure or at hfholidays.co.uk. There is no extra charge for pre-existing illnesses. If you would like to purchase insurance from us please call us on 020 8732 1220 or email holidayservices@hfholidays.co.uk. Even with an EHIC card, medicines and out-patient treatment normally have to be paid for at the time and the costs reclaimed afterwards details are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. Therefore insurance is extremely important, as is access to emergency money, preferably a credit card. In Montenegro, there are reciprocal healthcare agreements with the UK that allow free emergency treatment. In non urgent cases payment (normally in cash) may be required. Further details are available at dh.gov.uk/travellers. Turkey has no reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, and doctors generally expect payment in cash. Find out in advance if your insurance plan will make payments directly to providers or reimburse you later for overseas health expenditures. Money: Access to emergency money, preferably via a credit card, is very important as you never know when an emergency may arise. HOLIDAY TIPS Language: Spanish Currency: Euro Changing money: There are several ATM machines in Santa Cruz where you can obtain money. Electricity: 220 Volt AC with round two pin plugs; you will need an adaptor for any appliances brought from the UK. Tap water: Is considered safe to drink, but if you prefer, bottled mineral water can be purchased from the hotel or local supermarkets. Telephone code: If the international number you wish to call starts with a 0, you must drop the starting digit when dialling the number. To dial a UK number 0044 To dial a Spanish number 0034
WHAT TO WEAR & BRING To enjoy your walking comfortably and safely, it is essential that your footwear, clothing and equipment are suitable for the conditions likely to be encountered. Please note that some of our Atlantic island and Mediterranean destinations are also in mountainous areas and at high (up to 4,000ft) the temperatures can be as low as 0 C. You will need: comfortable outdoor clothing ankle supporting footwear with non-slip soles water bottle (at least 2 litres, more for hot climates) and a thermos flask if you wish sunhat, sun cream and sunglasses small rucksack The following are also recommended to all walkers, and are essential for mountainous and hilly areas: walking boots spare pullover or fleece hat and gloves TRANSFER INFORMATION Please note that meals are not provided on most European flights, although some airlines may offer a small snack. 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 5.50. 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 12 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 spare high-energy food e.g. chocolate bar or Kendal mint cake torch You may also wish to consider bringing: camera personal first aid kit walking pole(s) many guests find these useful, particularly for descents FOOTWEAR We recommend wearing walking boots on all our walks, as these provide the best ankle support and grip. Modern approach shoes offer appropriate levels of grip and may be worn on some low level walks, but users should be aware that they offer less ankle support. Lightweight trainers, denim jeans and waterproof capes are not recommended for any walks. If you have booked your holiday with flight you will arrive at La Palma Airport. From the UK we offer flights from several airports which may arrive at different times.. Where possible you will be met in the arrivals hall by an HF Holidays leader. Please look for the First Minute representative, who will be wearing an orange shirt and holding a First Minute board. The representative is usually standing underneath the right-hand TV screen which is straight ahead of you as you exit the baggage hall. Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk 9
linger a little LONGER Two weeks or more Make the most of your break and enjoy a longer holiday either two weeks of walking at some of our resorts or by combining complementary holidays, such as Malta and Gozo. We arrange the transfers between the resorts so that you don t have to. See our brochure or website for more 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 Discovery or Garden Tours, Photography, Painting, or Yoga. Worldwide From Alaska to Australia our Worldwide Journeys invite you to explore world famous destinations, and some lesser known gems, on six continents including Europe. 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 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk
RECOMMEND A FRIEND AND SAVE 50 Do you know someone who would enjoy our holidays as much as you do? Invite them to book a holiday and you ll receive 50! If you recommend HF Holidays to a friend who subsequently makes their first ever booking with us, we will give you 50 off your next holiday for each person recommended. Plus, as a welcome, we will also give your recommended friend or friends 50 per person off their holiday, meaning savings for everyone! Claim your 50 in three easy steps When your friend books a holiday, ask them to mention at time of booking your name and address. If they have never travelled with us before, we will give them a discount of 50 per person. We will send you a 50 voucher off a future HF Holidays break for each friend you have recommended. Terms & conditions apply, visit hfholidays.co.uk/raf for details. PATHWAYS FUND Last year guests donated 19,500 to our 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 Good Breaks designed to reward families who could not otherwise afford it with the gift of a break in the outdoors and the chance to spend quality time together. Help us continue this work by donating to the Pathways Fund. JOIN US TODAY AND BENEFIT TOMORROW HF Holidays is the only UK holiday provider that s a co-operative. We re owned by our members who help shape our business for future generations. Join our award-winning and sociably responsible society that s passionate about helping others to enjoy holidays in beautiful countryside. For a minimum purchase of 100 1 shares you can benefit from: Members loyalty scheme earn points on your holidays and use as a discount on your next holiday Member-only events and holidays Members come first with advance registration for the holiday you want 10% discount at our country house bars 15% discount at Cotswold Outdoor 15% discount at Rohan 25% discount at Hi-Tec Annual interest on your shares ALREADY A MEMBER? There are many ways for you to further your support: Help choose our Board Attend member events Encourage others to join us Increase your shares at any time Top up to 1,000 shares to become an investment member with enhanced benefits Give membership as a gift To join or increase your investment call our Membership team on 0208 732 1290, email membership@hfholidays.co.uk or visit hfholidays.co.uk/membership Call 0345 470 7558 or visit hfholidays.co.uk 11
Contact 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: 0345 470 7558 (local rate) +44 (0)20 8732 1250 (from outside the UK) 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