A heady stream of waterMarcos y Cordero: The lushest area in the Canaries If there is a place that contradicts the traditional reputation of the Canary Islands as dry and arid lands, it is La Palma. 'La Isla Bonita' (the beautiful island) is a living tribute to water, a steep green crest that emerges from the sea to attract those who flea from the crowded beaches in search of a more tranquil part of the islands. The vividness of the Marcos y Cordero springs pays living testament to the most fertile place on the archipelago and offers a magnificent opportunity to explore a spot that has been declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. The path leads from the Barranco del Agua public car park (next to the Visitor Centre), the entrance point to Los Tilos National Park. The first sight on offer is the laurel forest (a forest from the tertiary era that still survives in the Canaries), which creates a truly breathtaking spectacle. It is one of the most beautiful forests in the Canaries, forming a green tapestry that spreads over much of La Palma thanks to the abundant natural springs that openly contradict the islands' arid reputation. Here the water flows easily and the forest, shady and mysterious, grows throughout the hillsides and gullies offering some magical hideaways.
The route begins with an upward climb. From the car park, follow the path that leads up to the Mirador del Espigón (viewing point). After following a forest trail for several kilometres, a steep stairway takes you up to the viewing point, an ideal spot from which to admire the expanse of the forest. From here, the climb eases off, although you still need to continue upwards to reach the Marcos spring. Wooden bridges and shady gullies are the main features along the path that leads to the Fajana de la Tea. Once there, the trail becomes a steep upward climb along a zigzagging path until you reach the Marcos y Cordero springs.
If you decide to continue onto the Casa del Agua (house of water), simply follow the sound of the water and walk alongside the irrigation channel that directs the valuable fluid up to the fertile areas. The path up ahead is spectacular and passes through 12 tunnels that drive the water towards the island's fields. The route ends at the Casa del Monte (mountain house). If you take this option, it is necessary to book a 4 x 4 taxi in advance to collect you. If, on the other hand, you decide to return to the Barranco del Agua car park, simply follow the path back to the springs.
Trail guide:
Km. 0.0: Barranco del Agua car park. A pleasant forest trail goes up the right-hand side of the gully. Go straight on until you see a wooden bridge that crosses a water channel.
Km. 3.0: Once you cross the bridge, the path climbs upwards to the Espigón viewing point. From here, follow the forest trail until Fajana de la Tea. The path is a consistent upward climb.
Km. 9.0: Naciente de Cordero. The path continues upwards for another 1.2 kilometres until you reach the Marcos spring.
Km. 10.2: Follow the irrigation channel from the Marcos spring.
Km. 16.0: Casa del Monte
Practical details:
Distance: 16 kilometres (Barranco del Agua-Casa del Monte)
Time: 5 hours
Important information: The path can be tricky in places. The route crosses a number of tunnels with water flowing through so it is a good idea to carry a waterproof and a torch.
Getting there: By car until Los Tilos Visitor Centre (Barranco del Agua).
Taxis: A 4 x 4 taxi service will take you from the Casa del Monte to any point on the island. Tel: 616 418 847 (Luis Batista).
