Your comprehensive guide to an unforgettable vacation: questions & answers about Hacienda La Palma
Welcome to the Hacienda La Palma! We know that the anticipation of a trip is often associated with many questions. To make your planning as easy and pleasant as possible, we have compiled the answers to the most frequently asked questions from our guests for you here.
Your stay at the Hacienda La Palma - a retreat above the clouds
What makes the location of the hacienda at 1,380 meters so special and what should I bear in mind?
Our unique altitude is the heart of the Hacienda experience. You literally live “above the clouds” and enjoy absolute tranquillity, an incomparable view over the Atlantic and a night sky that is one of the clearest in the world.1 This seclusion is true luxury. Discover which of our
vacation homes
suits you best.
Please note that it gets noticeably cooler up here after sunset than on the coast, even in summer.4 We therefore strongly recommend that you also pack warmer clothing such as a sweater, fleece or light jacket. That way, you can enjoy the spectacular sunsets and starry skies on your private terrace to the full.
How does a vacation at the hacienda differ from a stay in a coastal resort or a hotel on the east coast?
A stay with us is a conscious decision for privacy, nature and relaxation. In contrast to the busier coastal towns with beach promenades and numerous stores, our 70,000 m² finca offers detached vacation homes where you are completely on your own. Instead of the evening hustle and bustle, you can experience the chirping of crickets and a breathtaking starry sky. You swap the proximity to the beach for the majestic tranquillity of the mountains and an exclusive perspective of the island – an experience that many of our guests describe as priceless. Find out more about our winery above the clouds
How do you get to the Hacienda and which rental car do you recommend?
The journey to our refuge is part of the adventure and rewards you with spectacular views. You drive on well-maintained mountain roads, which are typically winding for La Palma. The last 500 meters or so are on a fairly steep concrete track with a few water channels. The last 100 meters then lead over a somewhat bumpy forest path. We strongly recommend a rental car with an engine power of more than 70 HPin order to master the inclines with ease. A vehicle that is too weak could make the journey strenuous. At the same time, a small, maneuverable car is an advantage on the often narrow island roads, as it makes it easier to pass oncoming traffic.
Of course, you can also get up to the hacienda with small vehicles, but if you plan to do a lot of things by car, for example, it can be a bit tiring in the long run. Please use the following link to book a rental car and get a suitable vehicle at good conditions: Monta Cars
What do I need to consider when booking a suitable rental car?
Most car rental companies have their station directly in the airport, so that pick-up and drop-off can be done easily directly in the parking garage of the airport building. On request, many providers also offer the option of picking up the rental car directly at the ferry port of Santa Cruz de La Palma.
What facilities and services are included in my vacation home?
We want you to feel at home from the very first moment. Each of our vacation homes includes numerous services for you: personal support and travel advice from our local team on site, a welcome gift, fresh bed linen and towels, stable Wi-Fi for a possible “workation” and, of course, firewood for cozy evenings. You can find a complete overview under Service and information.
Your travel planning for La Palma - Well prepared for the "Isla Bonita"
When is the best time to travel to La Palma?
La Palma is a year-round destination, but the ideal time depends on your wishes:
- For hikers & nature lovers: Spring (February to May) and fall (September to November) are perfect. The temperatures are pleasantly mild and nature is at its most beautiful. Here at the Hacienda La Palma estate, the almond blossom begins in January and heralds the arrival of spring.
- For sun worshippers & swimmers: The summer months from June to October offer the warmest water and air temperatures, ideal for days at the bathing spots in the northwest of La Palma. Excursions and swimming at Tazacorte beach are possible all year round. The beach at Puerto de Tazacorte can be reached by car in approx. 45 minutes from the hacienda.
- To escape the winter: November to April is peak season for Central Europeans. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and the sheltered south-west orientation of our vineyard, you can enjoy spring-like temperatures and intense high-altitude sunshine during this time. However, please note that there can sometimes be cloudy or rainy days here too, when it is much cooler than down on the coast. For more information, please send us an e-mail
Do I absolutely need a rental car for my vacation?
Yes, absolutely. A rental car is the key to discovering the true beauty and diversity of La Palma. Many of the most spectacular viewpoints, secluded bays and starting points for hikes are difficult or impossible to reach by public transport. Although the public bus network (“Gua Gua”) connects the main towns, it is unsuitable for flexible exploration of the island. We recommend the Suzuki Ignis 4×4 or the VW Caddy from Monta Cars. Use the following link to book a rental car and get a suitable vehicle at good conditions: Monta Car
How do I get from the airport (SPC) to the hacienda?
The airport is located on the east coast of the island, south of the capital Santa Cruz de La Palma. The most convenient and recommended way is to pick up your pre-booked rental car directly at the airport. The drive to the hacienda on the west coast is a wonderful panoramic tour across the island, which will give you a first impression of the diversity of the landscape. Plan enough time for the route so that you can relax and enjoy the drive. We have detailed information at
Flight schedule & arrival
for you.
Activities & Experiences - Discover the diversity of La Palma
The volcanic eruption of 2021 - what do I need to know about it and can I visit the area?
The volcanic eruption on the Cumbre Vieja mountain range officially ended in December 2021. The island is safe and welcomes visitors. The newly formed volcano, which now bears the name
Tajogaite has become an impressive attraction.18 The immediate crater area is closed for safety reasons (e.g. gas leaks) and can only be visited by visitors.
can only be visited as part of a certified, guided tour. can be visited. We recommend booking these tours well in advance. You can find out more on our
La Palma map
.
We are not experienced hikers. Are there any easy tours on La Palma?
Absolutely! La Palma is a paradise for hikers of all levels. There are numerous beautiful and easy paths for beginners and connoisseurs:
- La Cumbrecita viewpoint: A relaxed, approximately 3 km long circular trail on the edge of the national park with breathtaking views into the crater.
- Los Tilos laurel forest: Short, magical walks through primeval forest-like vegetation that are also suitable for families.
- Walks and hikes directly from the hacienda: Explore the pine forests and the surrounding area right from your doorstep. You can find inspiration for your tours under Hiking La Palma
Is there anything special I need to know about the Caldera de Taburiente National Park?
Yes, this is a very important tip! For access to the popular viewpoint La Cumbrecita a free online reservation for a parking space is for a parking space is mandatory. Spaces are very limited. It’s best to book a few days in advance to avoid disappointment.
- La Cumbrecita viewpoint: A relaxed, approximately 3 km long circular trail on the edge of the national park with breathtaking views into the crater.
- Los Tilos laurel forest: Short, magical walks through primeval forest-like vegetation that are also suitable for families.
- Walks and hikes directly from the hacienda: Explore the pine forests and the surrounding area right from your doorstep. You can find inspiration for your tours under Hiking La Palma
What can you do on La Palma if you don't want to hike?
Worries that La Palma might be boring for non-hikers are unfounded. The island offers a wealth of relaxing experiences:
-
- Towns & villages: Stroll through the historic old town of the capital Santa Cruz with its famous wooden balconies or visit the picturesque San Andrés in the northeast.
- Beaches & sea pools: Relax on the unique black lava beaches of Puerto Naos or Tazacorte or enjoy a safe swim in the spectacular natural swimming pools such as Charco Azul.
- Panoramic routes: Explore the island by car on breathtaking panoramic roads and stop at the numerous “miradores” (viewpoints).6
- Stargazing: Be enchanted by the night sky. Thanks to the extremely low light pollution, La Palma is one of the best places in the world for
astronomy on La Palma
– an experience you can enjoy directly from your terrace at the hacienda.
- Special experiences for the Hacienda Community: We have developed some popular community offers with our partners for our regular guests. These include, for example, exclusive vineyard tours and tastings, wellness & experience offers and getting to know Garafia products. Please send us a short e-mail if you are interested.
