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Introducing Los Tiles
A biosphere reserve since 1983, the nearly 140 sq km of Los Tiles are covered with a lushly beautiful rainforest that’s literally oozing with life. This moist, cool, natural wonderland is one of the most magical spots on the island, a must-explore place where you can wander among the diverse flora and fauna and the largest laurisilva (laurel) forest on the island.
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At the helpful visitor centre (922 45 12 46; www.lapalmabiosfera.com; 8.30am-2pm & 2.30-5pm Nov-Jun, 8.30am-2pm & 2.30-6.30pm Jul-Oct) you’ll find maps, a video about the biosphere and a small museum. Nearby is a rustic restaurant (922 45 12 46; mains €7-10, closed Wed) serving grilled meats on outdoor picnic tables.
Fabulous hiking trails cut through Los Tiles’ dense vegetation. The shortest walk is the steep 750m climb up to the Mirador Topo de las Barandas (allow 45 minutes round trip), where around 700 steps leads to a spectacular view of the gorge running out of the reserve.
Even better, though, is the long, ravine-side hike to the Marcos and Cordero Springs, which passes through a dozen damp tunnels (bring a flashlight and rain jacket) and winds past waterfalls, through forest and alongside volcanic dikes. The hike isn’t incredibly steep (except in short stretches), but it can be slick; be careful. A popular way to tackle this hike is to get a taxi (922 45 09 28, 616 41 88 47; per person €15) from Los Tiles car park up to the Casa del Monte; call two to three days ahead for a taxi. From here, the hike to the springs and back should take about four hours.
Last updated: Sep 23, 2008
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