For those on holiday staying at the more southerly resorts on La Palma, I can imagine that it might be difficult to tear oneself away to explore the more northerly points of the island. However, for a place that has Canarian charisma oozing out of every cobbled stone and cute cottage, the little village of San Andres in the north east of La Palma is a must.
When we were looking for a place to live on La Palma, we stumbled across San Andres and immediately thought, 'Ah, this is it!' Everything one imagines a Spanish village to be, from the beautiful plaza with chur
ch (La Iglesia de San Andrés Apóstol), three cafe/restaurants dotted around the plaza and an abundance of cobbled streets. All in the most beautiful setting overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Actually, the church alone is very interesting as this was the site of one of the first churches to be built on the island by the Spanish Conquistadors in 1515. The present church was built in the 17th century. Unlike most churches the entrance is not at the nave end but it has two main doors at the side. Since our first visit there, we haven't been able to go inside the church as it's been locked up, but one of the most surprising things is the selection of doll parts adorning some of the walls. Apparently, this is to pray for people who are ill with the relevant part left in the church.
For walkers, the GR130 Camino Real walking route runs right through San Andres, so that's a bit of a treat in store, an oasis at the end of banana plantations. However, if not passing right through, you'll probably want to walk around the three main streets just so you don't miss anything, including a second little church. One thing you might miss though is the view from the upstairs at Bar Miami in the main street. That's my handy tip for the day :)
Moving right along, follow the GR130 signs towards Los Sauces and this will get you on the marine walk. It's a very enjoyable - and flat - walk which links San Andres to Charco Azul and Puerto Espindola.
Along the way, there is an absolutely lovely wooden bridge, quite new, but of a great design.
Also the old lime kiln which was very important from the days when lime paint was used to coat houses and protect from damp. You can look right inside the kiln which is fascinating with its curved, brick interior.
Continuing along the marine walk, there's plenty to see, the sea for a start! But also various subtropical plants and a few very interesting houses. I'll let you be the judge on that!
Charco Azul here we come ... to be continued :)
