From Mirador de la Tosca to Gallegos

An insight into the hike:

The walk starts at Mirador de la Tosca with a broad view across La Palma’s rugged northern coast. Cultivated terraces cover the hillsides before the land drops towards the Atlantic cliffs. Gallegos can already be seen to the west and, in clear weather, even El Tablado beyond it. The route soon reaches the tiny settlement of La Tosca, surrounded by especially old and impressive dragon trees.

Following the red-and-white GR-130, the trail uses traditional links that once connected the remote villages. It passes Fuente La Tosca and its historic washing places before descending stone steps into Barranco Topaciegas. Barranco La Vica, Barranco La Palmita and the deeper Barranco de Gallegos follow. This continuous rise and fall makes the route more varied and physically demanding than its distance of just under ten kilometres might suggest.

The rapid changes in vegetation are particularly appealing. Sunlit ridges support spurges, cacti and agaves, while shaded gullies contain tree heath, rock roses and elements of laurel forest. Small farmsteads, abandoned fincas and carefully formed terraces lie between them. This blend of nature and cultivated landscape offers an excellent impression of rural north-eastern La Palma.

Before Gallegos, the path descends through lush vegetation beside layered rock walls and climbs steeply out on the opposite side. The village is a good place for a break before returning to Mirador de la Tosca along the same route. The walk totals 445 metres of ascent and descent. Trails are generally easy to follow, although damp ravines can be slippery and the stony steps call for sturdy footwear.

Weather in the north can change quickly between sunshine, trade-wind cloud and brief showers, so carry protection from both rain and sun. Water and a snack remain advisable despite the possibility of refreshments in Gallegos. Those who prefer to walk in one direction can arrange a bus or taxi back from the village. The exact route, full tour description, current advice, elevation profile and GPS data are available from our partner Sunhikes.