Discover Garafia

Garafía, located in the northwest of La Palma, is an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts. This municipality, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, offers an extensive network of trails that allow visitors to explore its unique beauty. With over 700 kilometers of hiking paths on the island, Garafía stands out for its diversity of terrains and ecosystems, ranging from lush laurel forests to panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Highlighted Hiking Trails
Among the most popular routes is the GR 130, which connects different towns and crosses some of the island’s most iconic landscapes. This route allows hikers to enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings while discovering the native flora and fauna. Some recommended stages include:
El Tablado – Santo Domingo de Garafía: A route combining traditional paths with spectacular views.
Garafía – Tijarafe: Part of the GR 130, this trail offers a journey through rural and mountainous landscapes, ideal for those seeking an authentic nature experience.

The Roque de los Muchachos
One of the highlights of Garafía is the Roque de los Muchachos, home to the famous Roque de los Muchachos Observatory (ORM). Located at 2,426 meters above sea level, this observatory is one of the most important in the world for astronomical research. Its privileged location, above the cloud line and far from light pollution, provides ideal conditions for observing the night sky.
The ORM houses an impressive collection of telescopes, including the Gran Telescopio Canarias, the largest telescope in the world in its category. From here, advanced research is conducted in astrophysics and solar physics, significantly contributing to our understanding of the universe. The observatory also offers guided daytime tours where visitors can learn about the facilities and the science behind astronomy.

La Zarza Cultural Park
Another significant cultural attraction in Garafía is the La Zarza Cultural Park, which houses two rock stations: La Zarza and La Zarcita. These stations are considered one of the best sets of rock art on La Palma, standing out for their size and complexity. La Zarza includes a total of 39 engraved panels depicting geometric and astronomical motifs significant to the Benahoarita culture.
Located about 1,000 meters above sea level, these stations are not only a testament to the pre-Hispanic past of La Palma but also provide visitors with an educational experience about the island’s history and culture. The park features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to explore the island's cultural heritage in an engaging and accessible manner.

San Antonio del Monte Livestock Fair
Each year, Garafía hosts the San Antonio del Monte Livestock Fair, one of the most traditional and anticipated events on the island. This event takes place in June and brings together ranchers and visitors in a festive atmosphere that honors the local agricultural and livestock traditions. During the fair, there are livestock parades, contests, and exhibitions showcasing the richness of the livestock sector in La Palma.
The fair is not only an opportunity to appreciate the diversity of local livestock but also to enjoy cultural and gastronomic activities. It’s a perfect time to learn more about the local customs and enjoy the community atmosphere that defines Garafía.

Local Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Garafía reflects its natural and cultural wealth. Typical dishes are based on fresh, local ingredients, many of which are grown in its fertile land. Some of the standout flavors include:
Vegetables and Stews: Vegetables are essential in Garafía cuisine. Dishes such as potaje de trigo or sopas verdes are common and reflect the use of fresh products like squash, cabbage, and potatoes.
Cheese: The local production includes artisan cheeses made mainly from goat's milk. Smoked cheeses are particularly popular and offer a unique variety of flavors.
Fish: Proximity to the sea provides a wide variety of fresh fish. Specialties like salted cod are commonly enjoyed with papa arrugadas and typical mojos.
Meat: Meats such as pork, goat, and chicken are central to traditional cuisine. Dishes like cochino asado or goat meat in sauce are must-tries.
Desserts: Influenced by Portuguese heritage, desserts like huevos moles or marquesotes are delightful treats that complement any meal.

Garafía promises unique experiences
In conclusion, Garafía is a destination that combines nature, culture, and tradition. Whether exploring its trails, stargazing from the Roque de los Muchachos, or experiencing the rock art in La Zarza, this Canary Island municipality promises unforgettable experiences for all who visit.