
LP-301, a volcanic road in Canary Islands
Spain, europe
21 km
1,479 m
moderate
Year-round
# LP-301: La Palma's Hidden Gem
Picture this: you're cruising through Spain's Canary Islands on La Palma, tackling one of the island's best-kept secrets. The LP-301—locals call it Carretera San Isidro—is a stunning 21 km (13 miles) stretch that connects LP-3 (Carretera de la Cumbre) to LP-202 near Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and it's absolutely worth your time.
Nestled within the Cumbre Vieja Natural Park, this fully paved road winds through some seriously diverse landscapes. You'll navigate narrow, steep sections surrounded by lush forest, climbing up to 1,479 meters (4,852 feet) at the Cumbre Nueva ridge. The payoff? Jaw-dropping volcanic vistas that honestly feel otherworldly—think moon-like black lava fields that look almost alien against the vibrant greens of the plateau below.
Along the way, you'll find scattered picnic areas and natural viewpoints perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the panoramas. The drive takes you around a handful of volcanoes, where the dramatic contrast between the dark volcanic landscape and the surrounding forest creates some seriously Instagram-worthy moments. It's the kind of road that reminds you why La Palma is so geologically fascinating, without the crowds you'd find on more touristy routes.
Where is it?
LP-301, a volcanic road in Canary Islands is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 40.6167, -4.6943
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 21 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,479 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 40.6167, -4.6943
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