Roque del Faro – El Tablado – Gallegos

An insight into the hike:

From Roque del Faro, PR LP 9.1 descends through the green north to El Tablado. Laurel woodland, cultivated slopes and open coastal views quickly reveal how isolated Garafía's villages are between the barrancos. El Tablado itself occupies a dramatic shelf between Barranco de los Hombres and Barranco de Fagundo.

The traverse then follows GR 130 through Franceses. Deep cuts such as Barranco de Franceses and Barranco de Melchor Pérez create repeated descents and counter-climbs. Old terraces, dragon trees and tiny settlements line the way before a final ascent reaches Mirador de Gallegos and the village.

The 13.8 kilometres appear manageable, yet 917 metres up and 1,588 down make this a hard route. Numerous steep steps test knees and concentration, while damp paving can be slippery. Good fitness, secure footing and poles for the long descents are advisable.

As this is a point-to-point hike, onward transport from Gallegos should be settled before setting out. It particularly suits walkers who want village culture and wild ravines in one day. Sunhikes documents the line via El Tablado and every important crossing.