At the northern tip of La Palma, Barlovento reveals itself as a municipality of intensely green landscapes, rugged coastline, pure air and absolute tranquility. With just around 1,921 residents, this northern retreat invites you to breathe in the trade winds, swim in natural pools and walk through laurel forests. A true northern soul full of authenticity and heart.
Practical Information about Barlovento
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Surface area | 43.5 km² |
| Average altitude | 550 m |
| Population | 1,921 residents |
| Main villages | Barlovento, Gallegos, Las Cabezadas, La Tosca |
| Climate | Cool and humid year-round |
| Connections | Well connected by LP‑1 and local bus lines |
Why Visit Barlovento?
Because it’s one of the most rural and soulful places on La Palma. Its lush green landscape, shaped by the moist trade winds. It’s perfect for unwinding, breathing fresh air and discovering a lesser-known side of the island: wild, welcoming and beautifully serene.
The municipality of Barlovento, known as Tagaragre by the ancient Benahoarites, was one of the first areas settled after the Spanish conquest. The village grew around an old crossroads, a gathering place where farmers transported their goods to the southern towns. There they rested, traded and socialized, giving shape to the deeply agricultural and communal identity that still defines Barlovento today.
What to See and Do in Barlovento
- La Tosca Viewpoint.
Located 700 metres above sea level, this spectacular lookout offers sweeping views over the island’s north coast and its endless greenery. The area is also home to several centuries-old dragon trees, a natural symbol of the Canary Islands. - La Fajana Natural Pools.
Three sea pools protected from the Atlantic waves, ideal for a safe, refreshing swim with stunning ocean views. With basic services nearby, they’re among the most beautiful and secure pools on La Palma. - Barlovento Lagoon and Recreation Park.
A peaceful green area with a man-made lagoon, picnic zones and a motorhome site, surrounded by laurel forest. It’s a popular weekend spot for locals to relax outdoors. - Talavera Jetty.
A relic of Barlovento’s trading past, once a key port for exporting local products like wine. Today, it’s a peaceful place to stroll and watch the powerful northern seas. - Village Centre of Barlovento.
Small but charming, the town’s heart features traditional Canarian houses, the Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, and a lively Sunday farmers’ market full of local, high-quality produce.
Local Festivities and Traditions
The biggest celebration takes place between late July and early August in honour of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, the town’s patron saint. The festivities include cultural, sporting and family activities, along with a traditional romería, where locals and visitors dress in folk costume and parade through the streets.
One unique highlight is the re-enactment of the Battle of Lepanto, a popular theatrical event that brings local history to life with community spirit. Another unmissable tradition is the flamboyant “Sardinisima”, Barlovento’s own version of the traditional Carnival Sardine ceremony that marks the end of the festivities with colour and humour.
Barlovento is also the finish line for El Acantilado del Norte, one of the most challenging and dramatic mountain trail races in the world, crossing breathtaking terrain to end in this wild northern corner. Several motorsport rallies are also held here throughout the year, attracting fans from across the island and beyond.
Practical Tips
- Charming accommodations
While the tourism offer is small, you’ll find two standout hotels in Barlovento. Hotel La Palma Romántica is ideal for switching off in nature, and the Faro de Barlovento lighthouse hotel offers a truly unique stay perched on the edge of a cliff with stunning ocean views. - Authentic northern cuisine
Try one of the small local restaurants for homemade meat dishes paired with a robust red wine from the area, a simple, rustic delight you won’t forget. - Lively Sunday market
Each Sunday morning, the town market comes alive not only with fresh local produce but also with live music and themed festivities that bring the village to life. - Cool and windy climate
As its name implies (Barlovento means windward), this area receives frequent trade winds. Especially in winter, the temperatures can be quite chilly, so bring warm clothing even for daytime visits.
