17 August 2016, London / This winter, the quintessential charm of the northernmost Canary Island, La Palma, becomes a little more attainable for British travellers as easyjet confirms a brand new route from London Gatwick to La Palma. The new winter service, flying twice weekly, will commence on October 1 2016. Best known for its breathtaking scenery and well-preserved nature paths, it is no wonder why the entire island is protected by UNESCO. Often referred to as a miniature continent, La Palma boasts a diverse landscape of lush, tropical forests in the north and steep cliffs of volcanic rock formations in the south. To celebrate easyjet's new flight we look at La Palma's essential 'must see, must dos' when visiting the beautiful island.

1. EXPLORE LOS TILES - THE FIRST WORLD BIOSPHERE RESERVE ON THE ISLAND

A visit to the enchanted Los Tilos forest (officially 'Los Tiles') should be one of the first things on the 'to do' list when travelling to La Palma. Located in the north east of La Palma, near Los Sauces, this dense and luscious forest is one of the best surviving laurel forests in the world. Surrounded by giant ferns and ancient laurel trees, explore the islands first world biosphere reserve which is home to some of the rarest plants in the world.

2. GRAB YOUR GOGGLES AND HEAD TO THE PISCINAS DE LA FAJANA

Experience some of the finest seawater swimming Europe has to offer at La Fajana Natural Pools located on the Northeast coast of La Palma. La Fajana consists of three manmade, modern rock pools each filled naturally with fresh sea water. Varying in size there is a smaller pool perfect for families with young ones. Changing facilities and a local restaurant serving drinks, snacks and traditional Canary dishes, La Fajana is a perfect day out for travellers and locals alike.

3. MEANDER AROUND THE BEAUTIFUL SANTA CRUZ DE LA PALMA

Located in the east of the island, Santa Cruz is La Palma's quaint Canarian capital, oozing charm, history and heritage. Famous for its cobbled streets, stately colonial-style houses, colourful wooden balconies and ancient buildings, visitors can enjoy leisurely afternoon strolls along the boulevard of Santa Cruz taking in the atmosphere. 

4. DANCE WITH THE DEVIL IN TIJARAFE

'Fiesta del Diablo' or 'Dance of the Devil' is a traditional festivity like no other. Each year, on the 8th September in the early hours of the morning, thousands of locals and visitors gather together in the streets of Tijarafe waiting impatiently for 'the devil' to appear. To excitable shouts and screams the fire spitting devil ventures into the crowds whirling colours, fireworks and music across the square before dancing the night away to live salsa music with the masses.

5. STARGAZE ABOVE THE CLOUDS AT WORLD RENOWNED ASTRONOMICAL VIEWPOINTS

Since 1988, the sky of La Palma has been protected by law which enforces the control of light and air pollution making stargazing on the island one of the finest astronomical experiences. Head to The Observatory of El Roque de Los Muchachos located at 2,420 metres above sea level and for over 300 days a year, above cloud level. Even in the populated areas near the coast, where the majority of the islands accommodation is located, the Milky Way is a magnificent sight. For casual stargazers, don't forget to bring a pair of binoculars and a good star chart or download a stargazing app on your smartphone!

6. EXPLORE THE ATLANTIC WITH A ROUGH TOOTH DOLPHIN OR TWO

La Palma is of volcanic origin and its waters drop off rapidly to depths of over 1,000 metres attracting a wealth of stunning marine-life, including cetaceans. Hop on a catamaran and explore the warm waters searching for the Atlantic Spotted Dolphin, the Rough-toothed Dolphin and the dense-beaked whale.

And that's not all. Be sure to discover the phenomenal street art in Los LLanos, sample fresh seafood at local restaurants across the island and visit one of the largest erosion craters in the world at the Caldera de Taburiente. For more info on La Palma visit www.visitlapalma.es/en

-ENDS-

Notes to editor:  

If you are interested in further information, high res images or visiting the islands, please contact:

Sophie Banna, PR Account Executive: sophieb@hillsbalfour.com +44 207 593 1750

Charlotte Fox, PR Senior Account Manager: charlottef@hilslbalfour.com +44 207 593 1718

Amy Scott, PR Account Director: amys@hillsbalfour.com +44 207 593