Puntos de Interés
Orography
Las Angustias Ravine
Las Angustias Ravine is part of the Canary Islands Network of Protected Natural Spaces and is designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in the Natura 2000 Network. Its relevance lies in the geological and climatic characteristics that favour the unique vegetation of La Palma, including Canary Island Pine forests (Pinus canariensis).
It is located in the west of La Palma and crosses the municipalities of El Paso, Tijarafe, Los Llanos de Aridane and Tazacorte, the edge and drainage route of La Caldera de Taburiente. The environmental values include basal geological materials, i.e. the oldest materials on the island, large areas of plutonic rocks, steep walls, springs and an extensive network of dykes and springs. It is also home to the amazing Cascada de Colores (Waterfall of Colours).
Exploring the Las Angustias Ravine offers not only an encounter with its striking geological landscape but also the opportunity to appreciate and preserve its characteristic rich biological diversity. It is home to a great diversity of plant and animal species that have adapted to the geographical environment. Among the plant species that thrive in this protected area are the Canary Island Pine, which finds a favourable habitat on the slopes of the ravine, contributing to the formation of forests that are characteristic of the region, like La Palma lavender (Lavandula buchii) and Echium wildpretii with its tall, showy spikes of red flowers during the flowering season. As for the fauna, the Barranco de Las Angustias ravine is home to various species, including: the La Palma giant lizard (Gallotia auaritae) and the laurel pigeon (Columba junoniae).
Las Angustias Ravine is also of significant historical value related to the Benahorita culture, the original inhabitants of La Palma. The ravine played a fundamental role in the Benahorita de Aridane canton, as its inhabitants made strategic use of its natural resources by using its waters to irrigate crops, taking advantage of the fertility of the surrounding land. The presence of permanent streams in the area known as Dos Aguas points to the importance of the ravine as a source of water for agriculture that is still vital for the island's inhabitants.
For all these reasons, Las Angustias Ravine is a fascinating destination that captivates those who visit it and enjoy the charms of this abrupt landscape, whether practising nature sports or simply strolling through it.