Exploring the historic centre of Santa Cruz de La Palma is like immersing yourself in the island's rich cultural and architectural heritage. Below, we suggest a tour of the must-see places, shops and museums you can't miss, along with directions to get there from Villas Morera in Breña Baja.
1. Calle O'Daly (Calle Real): This iconic pedestrian street is the commercial heart of the city, packed with shops, cafes and historic buildings with traditional wooden balconies. Strolling along here will allow you to appreciate the colonial architecture and soak up the local atmosphere.
2. Plaza de España: The nerve centre of Santa Cruz, this square is home to the Church of El Salvador, built in the 16th century, and the Town Hall, both outstanding examples of the Canarian Renaissance style.
3. Balconies of Avenida Marítima: These colourful wooden balconies are one of the most representative images of the city. Located facing the sea, they reflect the traditional architecture of La Palma and offer a picturesque image.
4. Museo Naval (Barco de la Virgen): A replica of Christopher Columbus's ship Santa María houses this museum, which displays objects related to the island's maritime history. Located in Plaza de la Alameda, it is a must-see for lovers of naval history.
5. Municipal Market: Known as "La Recova", this market offers fresh local produce, handicrafts and is an ideal place to experience the daily life of the people of La Palma.
6. Royal Sanctuary of Our Lady of Las Nieves: Located on the outskirts of the city, this sanctuary houses the island's patron saint and is an important pilgrimage centre. Its architecture and natural surroundings make it a place of peace and reflection.
How to get from Villas Morera to Santa Cruz de La Palma:
By car: From Villas Morera, take the LP-2 highway northwards. The journey of approximately 6 km will take you about 10 minutes.
By bus: Line 200 connects Breña Baja with Santa Cruz de La Palma. The nearest stop is in La Polvacera, about 10 minutes walk from Villas Morera. The bus journey takes about 9 minutes.
On foot: If you prefer to walk, the route is approximately 8.6 km and can take around 1 hour and 40 minutes.
This walk through the historic centre of Santa Cruz de La Palma will allow you to discover the essence of the island, combining history, culture and traditions in a unique setting.