Los Tilos Forest | La Palma

Los Tilos Forest (Bosque de Los Tilos) is a Laurel forest located in the northern part of La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain. It's a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most important natural spaces on the island, renowned for its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems, and impressive landscapes. This subtropical forest is a haven for rare plant and animal species and is considered one of the best-preserved laurel forests in the world.

Location and Accessibility

Los Tilos is located in the municipality of San Andrés y Sauces, in the northern part of La Palma. The forest covers approximately 1,000 hectares and is situated in the Laurel and Canarian pine forests zone, at an altitude between 600 and 1,100 meters above sea level. The area is part of the Garafía mountain range, with deep ravines, cliffs, and lush green slopes that make the forest an exceptional place for exploration.

The Los Tilos Visitor Center is a starting point for those wishing to visit the forest, providing information on the forest's natural environment, trails, and conservation efforts. The center also offers educational displays about the flora and fauna that call the forest home.

Ecosystem and Flora

Los Tilos Forest is an example of a Laurel forest (Macaronesian Laurel Forest), a rare type of subtropical forest that is characterized by its dense vegetation and high humidity. These forests were once widespread across the Mediterranean and Macaronesia (the islands of the Canary Islands, Azores, and Madeira) but are now limited to specific regions with favorable climate conditions, such as La Palma.

Key characteristics of the forest include:

Endemic Plant Species:

• The forest is home to a variety of endemic plants, some of which are found only in the Canary Islands or this region. These include species like Canary Island laurel (Laurus azorica), Canary Island pine (Pinus canariensis), and the endemic fern (Lomaria canariensis).
• The laurel trees in this forest can grow up to 20 meters tall, and their dense foliage forms a canopy that keeps the forest dark and humid, creating a perfect environment for mosses, ferns, and lichens.

Rich Biodiversity:

• The forest also hosts a wide range of ferns, mosses, lichens, and epiphytic plants that thrive in the humid, sheltered conditions.
• The forest provides a habitat for many species of birds, insects, and small mammals. Species like the Laurel pigeon (Columba junoniae) and the Canary Islands chaffinch (Fringilla polatzeki) can be found in this environment, along with a variety of butterflies, including some rare endemic species.
• The Canary Island giant lizard (Gallotia goliath) is also found in this forest, along with other reptiles.

High Humidity and Rainfall:

• Los Tilos has a high level of precipitation, with the cloud forests generating moisture from the trade winds. This moisture allows for the growth of the lush vegetation, making the forest appear misty and almost magical, especially in the early morning or after rain.

Trails and Hiking

Los Tilos Forest offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its beauty up close. Some of the most popular routes include:

Ruta de Los Tilos:

• This is the main trail that winds through the forest. It's a moderate 3.5-kilometer hike (round trip) and takes you through the heart of the forest. The path passes by streams, waterfalls, and impressive laurel trees. Along the way, there are wooden walkways and bridges that allow hikers to navigate the sometimes steep and slippery terrain.

The Waterfall Trail (Sendero de las Cascadas):

• This trail leads to the Cascada de Los Tilos, a stunning waterfall located within the forest. The path is relatively short but provides beautiful views of the lush, green landscape, with the sound of cascading water adding to the peaceful atmosphere.

Cruz de Tiedra:

• A more challenging trail that connects Los Tilos with the area of Cruz de Tiedra, offering panoramic views of the northern part of La Palma. This trail is suitable for experienced hikers and provides a more rugged experience of the forest.

Circular Routes:

• There are also several circular trails, some of which connect Los Tilos with neighboring areas, such as the Laurel Forest of the North. These routes offer a variety of landscapes, including deep ravines and cliff-side views, while maintaining access to the forest's dense vegetation.

Conservation and Protection

Los Tilos Forest is a protected area, part of the La Palma Biosphere Reserve, and has been recognized for its ecological importance. The forest's status as a protected natural space ensures that conservation efforts focus on maintaining its unique biodiversity. Some of the key conservation goals include:

• Protection of Endemic Species: The forest is home to a large number of endemic and rare species that need protection from habitat destruction and invasive species.
• Sustainable Tourism: Efforts are made to ensure that tourism does not harm the delicate ecosystems of the forest. Trails are maintained to minimize environmental impact, and educational programs are offered to raise awareness about the importance of the forest.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: Los Tilos Forest and its visitor center are generally open year-round, though it is best to check for any specific closures during the winter or for maintenance.
• Getting There: The forest is accessible by car, and visitors can park at the Los Tilos Visitor Center. From there, the trails begin, offering access to the heart of the forest.
• Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for those who want a more in-depth understanding of the forest’s ecology and history. These tours are often led by local experts and provide educational insights into the biodiversity and conservation efforts within the forest.

Conclusion

Los Tilos Forest is one of the Canary Islands' most unique and biodiverse natural environments. Its dense laurel trees, rich vegetation, and abundance of endemic species make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Whether you're interested in exploring its hiking trails, discovering its diverse flora and fauna, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this beautiful forest, Los Tilos offers an unforgettable experience.