While the holiday season brings crowds to many destinations, La Palma, the Canary Islands’ best-kept secret, invites travellers to experience a different kind of winter escape: one defined by tranquillity, natural beauty, and authentic Canarian charm.
Recent data shared by the Government of the Canary Islands underscores La Palma’s enduring appeal to UK holidaymakers. British tourists remain the Canaries’ most important market, contributing 35% of tourism turnover, €8 billion annually. With average spending of €1,472 per trip, British travellers are investing in quality experiences, and La Palma delivers exactly that: exceptional value combined with authentic island life, superb weather, and uncrowded natural beauty, all just a four-hour flight away.
This winter season, sleepy seaside villages, and resorts with over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year are especially easy to reach. With once weekly TUI direct flights from London Gatwick during winter, La Palma is poised to become the most sought-after destination for sun-seekers, while alternative routes via Tenerife Norte, Tenerife South, Gran Canaria, Madrid and Barcelona provide even more options for British visitors.
Los Cancajos and Puerto Naos glisten with black-sand beaches perfect for swimming in mid-December coupled with peaceful promenades, the perfect antidote to festive overwhelm. Meanwhile, the capital Santa Cruz de La Palma charms visitors with its cobbled streets and colonial-style architecture, offering an authentic taste of Canarian culture without the tourist throngs.
Those who visit during the holiday season will discover La Palma’s unique take on Christmas celebrations. From family-friendly festivities to the enchanting Rondallas de Lo Divino in Santa Cruz de La Palma, where musical groups stroll the streets singing traditional carols, the island offers authentic cultural experiences that perfectly complement its natural attractions. The celebrations continue into the New Year with local delights including volcanic wines from La Palma’s unique terraced vineyards and traditional Canarian cuisine that showcases the island’s rich culinary flavours.