La Zarza – El Tablado – Santo Domingo de Garafía

An insight into the hike:

This exceptionally long circuit draws a broad arc through northern Garafía. From Parque Cultural La Zarza it crosses humid forest to remote hamlets and descends towards the coast. Barranco del Capitán and Barranco de Carmona are among the first crossings before the route continues through Roque del Faro and El Tablado.

Terraces, dragon trees, old village paths and Atlantic views reveal the north’s historic cultural landscape. Beyond El Tablado, Barranco de Fagundo forms one of the deepest cuts. The line then reaches Santo Domingo de Garafía via Don Pedro and other isolated settlements before the lengthy return to La Zarza.

Its 28.2 kilometres, 1,726 metres both up and down and up to eleven and a half hours are far beyond an ordinary holiday walk. Repeated ravines multiply the effort; steep steps, damp forest paths and long climbs require excellent endurance and secure technique.

Only very fit, experienced hikers should attempt the full circuit, and only with a long, stable daylight window. Escape points and taxis must be identified and agreed beforehand. For most visitors, selecting one section is the wiser choice. Sunhikes provides the complete line, intermediate points and current conditions.