Circular Hike through Cubo de La Galga

An insight into the hike:

Cubo de La Galga is one of the best places to discover La Palma’s humid laurel forest. From the information hut on the LP-1, the circuit first enters Barranco de la Galga. The surroundings become denser and greener with every step: laurel trees, vines, tree heath, wax myrtle and tall ferns form a shaded canopy, while mosses and lichens cover rocks and old walls.

As the valley narrows, the atmosphere becomes almost primeval. The path passes a water channel, unusual boulders and a masonry aqueduct before climbing on PR-LP 5.1 through the cloud forest. Mirador de la Somada Alta, positioned on a ridge, provides an appealing contrast to the enclosed woodland. In clear conditions the view extends across the forest, La Galga and the green slopes towards San Andrés y Sauces.

Although Sunhikes rates the circular walk as easy, its 8.4 kilometres include around 513 metres of ascent. Steps, stones, roots and damp ground require sure-footedness, and some sections can be slippery after rain. Sturdy footwear and rain protection are therefore as useful as water and food. The cloud forest is often much cooler and wetter than the coast.

The route starts and finishes at the information hut between two tunnels on the LP-1. It can be reached by car or by the bus service between Santa Cruz de La Palma and Barlovento, although bus users have slightly different options for joining and leaving the trail. The exact route, full description, current advice, elevation profile and GPS data are available from our partner Sunhikes.