BARLOVENTO - A Countryside Escape in Canary Islands All Inclusive

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BARLOVENTO
A Countryside Escape in Canary Islands All
Inclusive
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A delight to those who want to unwind, the serene
terrain of Barlovento is also the greenest part
of La Palma. It has a rural landscape veiled by
laurel forests, dragos, heathers, and pines. On
the other hand, its high grounds are windows to
the lovely seascape and its emerald hills. It
does not suffer from the deluge of mass tourism
hence its vast expanse remains unspoiled.
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A Look Back in Time
The Canary Islands have always been blessed with
fertile soil and all-year-round sunshine. So,
after its conquest, heaps of land were used for
sugarcane cultivation. Such was the fate of
Barlovento, and its small port of Talavera became
the door to trade. All good things must come to
an end, so goes the saying. The sugarcane
industry had a great run. But by the 16th and
17th century, these fields were turned into
vineyards. In turn, wine became the primary
export of the Canaries. As the dawn of tourism
came in the early 20th Century, agriculture
pushed further inland. Local wines are still in
high demand up to this day though, and many
vineyards have stood the test of time. As for the
windy Barlovento, it has shifted to banana,
avocado and potato farming since the 60s.
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Why Visiting Barlovento Is a Must
Tourists looking for palatial hotels, wide sandy
beaches, and lively bars will not find it in
Barlovento. It is a world apart from the tourist
resorts in other parts of the Canaries. That is
not to say that this municipality does not have
its tourist traps. It does, and these are the
natural marvels which abound. Barlovento is for
nature lovers who wish to escape the hustle and
bustle of daily life. It is for leisure walkers
who crave for spectacular scenery. The natural
seawater pools are not only enticing but also
captivating. Moreover, the locals ensure that
visitors feel right at home.
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Laguna de Barlovento
An ambitious project to build the largest
reservoir in the Canaries started a few decades
ago. It was meant to supply the vast plantations
on the coast and southeast of the island. Today,
Laguna de Barlovento sits on what was once a
natural crater lake. Next to the large
artificial reserve is a large park. On weekends
and holidays, this is one of the hottest spots
for the locals. Here, they have barbecue and camp
out with family and friends. Observing the flora
and fauna, cycling, and trekking are quite
popular too. Theres also an obstacle course for
groups who are up for a challenge.
La Fajana Natural Pools
Of the many things to do in Barlovento, most
tourists spend some time dipping in the natural
pools of La Fajana in Punta del Corcho. Although
hidden on the east coast of the municipality, it
has amassed loyal visitors. Even during the peak
season, the three volcanic rock basins are more
than big enough to accommodate its guests. La
Fajana Natural Pools is simple, but it has all
the essentials. A fantastic viewpoint greets
visitors upon arrival. Nearby, there is a
promenade for people to saunter and bask in the
rugged natural beauty. Below, a couple of sun
terraces and the three seawater pools await.
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La Fajana Natural Pools
While the waters of the Atlantic can be rough,
dipping in the pool is safe with no danger of
being swept away by high waves. There are no
artificial structures to block the pristine view
inland. Just about everything here at the natural
pools of La Fajana is a creation of nature. It is
a gift of fun and relaxation.
Viewpoints
The travel up north to see the natural splendors
of Barlovento is every bit worth it. Once in the
municipality though, nothing beats walking and
sightseeing. A must-include in the countryside
stroll is a visit to any of its three viewpoints
where nature spectators can have a better view of
the expanse. At the entrance of the La Laguna
Recreational Park is the La Laguna de Barlovento
Viewpoint. And, as the name suggests, the
panorama it offers is that of the Laguna de
Barlovento reservoir. It is but a small mirador
with volcanic rock masonry, but the sights are
heavenly. The enormous circular reserve,
surrounded by serene greenery, is lovely yet
intimidating.
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Viewpoints
Another spectacular spot is the La Tosca
Viewpoint. At 700 meters high, it offers a
splendid view of the sea, the shoreline, and the
villages of La Tosca, Topaciegas, La Palmita and
Gallegos. The stunning downslope of the cliffed
coast is also an enchanting scene. Finally,
tourists fascinated by stargazing should head to
El Molino Viewpoint. On its deck are informative
panels about astronomy such as moon observation,
the Pole Star, and the Sky Law. Theres also a
signpost and a wheel-planisphere to help visitors
locate stars and constellations. During the day,
some parts of Barlovento and Garafia, as well as
most of the north coast of La Palma, can be seen
from this vantage point. The sight of houses
clustered on a dramatic landscape shows how
locals have been living in harmony with nature.
Nuestra Señora del Rosario Church
At the heart of the historic area of Barlovento
is the Nuestra Señora del Rosario Church. It is
the most valuable religious structure in the
municipality and the oldest too. Always
well-maintained, some people may not realize that
it dates as far back as the 16th Century. Inside
the church, the interior highlights how the
locals treasure this sanctuary. It has
sophisticated yet straightforward dark wooden
beams and traditional chandeliers. Also within
its holy walls are three figures of which two are
as old as the church itself. Moreover, the 16th
Century baptismal font is still there as well as
the 18th Century baroque style main altarpiece.
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Where to Stay
Containing the wanderlust within is hard. And, if
its nature they crave, Barloventos got them
covered. One day will not be enough to trek all
its delightful trails. A couple of hours of
sightseeing is not enough. No matter how fun
though, visitors will eventually need to call it
a day and rest. Barlovento is a countryside
charmer with only a single hotel and some holiday
homes. Even with just a few lodging options,
theres always at least one that suits their
needs. The municipality may not have the numbers
and the big names, but the sights they have are
beyond compare. And, thats why people travel.
Its rarely about the hotels but more about the
beautiful places, the people and their culture.
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Hotel
Hotel La Palma Romántica is the only hotel in
Barlovento. The property, oozing with life,
color, and charm, is nestled within an enchanting
Lauri Silva forest. It has a spa, gym, two pools,
and tennis courts. Each of the rooms in the hotel
has a view of the Atlantic or the mountains from
the balcony or terrace. There is also no need to
go far for a lovely dining experience. Hotel La
Palma Romántica has a restaurant that serves
delectable Canarian and international cuisine.
Here, diners can even enjoy their meal on the
terrace with dazzling ocean views.
Holiday Homes
Immersing in the local culture is one of the best
ways to thoroughly enjoy a visit at Barlovento.
As such, staying in holiday homes is not only a
matter of costs but also of living the life to
the fullest in simplicity.
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Peluquina
Ideal for small groups, the Peluquina has two
bedrooms both with two single beds. Guests can
also watch satellite TV in the living room. A
fireplace not only is for practical reasons but
also adds to the allure. The kitchen is also
available to guests, and it comes complete with
the essentials dining table, oven, microwave,
fridge. If needed, theres also a washing machine
provided. Like most accommodations in Barlovento,
Peluquina offers a remarkable seascape and
mountain views. At the terrace, guests can sit in
the outdoor dining area surrounded by unrelenting
epic sceneries.
Simón
Surrounded by avocado trees and banana
plantations, this holiday home is a charmer. Its
the Canarian version of the traditional white
picket fence dream home. There is no vertical
board fence here. Instead, it has whitewashed
concrete wall enclosing the large backyard with
private pool. Guests of Simón can relax on the
lounger and bask in the sun while appreciating
the azure Atlantic. This 2-bedroom rental is
perfect for small families or groups. One room
has a double bed and the other with a single. It
also has a cozy living room with fireplace,
satellite TV, sofa, and armchairs. Guests can
also prepare their favorite dishes in its
fully-equipped kitchen.
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Casa Facundo
Hikers need not go far for an enjoyable trail if
they stay at Facundo A and Facundo B holiday
homes. Only 500 meters from the properties is a
track leading past Barlovento Lake and Mirador
del Topo. Even before leaving its ground, guests
here are already surrounded by spectacular
scenery. Both are whitewashed houses featuring
delightful traditional Canarian architecture.
They also have comfortable living spaces with a
fireplace, sofa, and TV with satellite channels.
Before or after the hike, guests can whip up
their meals in the fully-equipped kitchen. A
washing machine is available too.
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Dining Options
Although somewhat limited, the dining options in
Barlovento are satisfying. Most are also in or
near tourist attractions, so travelers need not
pull out their maps. All they have to figure out
is how to focus on eating when surrounded by
incredible natural wonders.
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Restaurante El Campesino or Asador El Campesino
The most popular dining place in the municipality
is Restaurante El Campesino. Even locals dine
here for their fantastic grilled specialties and
Canarian dishes. Their best-sellers are salted
cod, pork chop, a mixed plate of Spanish
sausages, grilled chicken, grilled goat cheese,
and chickpea soup. Pair any of the dishes with
local wine or banana liquor to have the best
dining experience.
Restaurante Las Goteras
Tourists visiting the La Laguna Recreation Park
will not miss Restaurante Las Goteras. It is
another must-visit in Barlovento. Diners cant go
wrong with any of their grilled dishes paired
with Mojo Verde. The unique fried cheese with
cranberry sauce is also a must-try. Although some
people may find it odd, they still end up loving
it. In fact, it is one of the signature dishes of
the restaurant. For quality meals in big serving
sizes and excellent customer service, Las Goteras
is the place.
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Restaurante la Fajana
Tasty seafood dishes before or after taking a dip
in the natural pools sounds like a fantastic
idea. It doesnt have to be just an idea though.
Restaurante la Fajana is but a couple of steps
away from the seawater pools. In fact, dining
here in swimwear is the norm rather than the
exemption. They have a host of seafood dishes to
choose from, but their Alfonsino is the most
popular. For a quick snack, try their tortilla
española, or the Principle Albert to satisfy a
sweet tooth. Munching on delicious food while
listening to the sound of the sea is nothing
short of heavenly.
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How to Get There
Public Transport is available from Santa Cruz de
La Palma, Puntallana, and Los Sauces to
Barlovento on weekdays. Bus line 100 departs the
capital every hour from 615 to 2230. It only
takes 15 minutes to reach Puntallana, and another
20 minutes to arrive at Los Sauces. For tourists
traveling on Saturdays, Sundays or a bank
Holidays, they must hire a car.
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Barlovento Is a Countryside Escape
Barlovento isnt for all. Not everyone
appreciates the perfect fusion of nature and
urbanity. And, very few would hike to a viewpoint
for some night sky-watching. For those who do
though, Barlovento is a place that is so hard to
find these days. There are no massive tourists
resorts or avenues full of bars and restaurants.
Even water sports activities are non-existent.
Instead, it is just nature and the quaint
villages offering a serene experience, even for
only a brief moment of time. It is a place that
offers no promises other than tranquility and
majestic views. A countryside escape that is
Barlovento.
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