4.5
(314)
1,837
riders
85
rides
Mountain biking around Breña Alta offers diverse landscapes shaped by its volcanic origins on the eastern side of La Palma. The region features an altitudinal gradient with ecosystems ranging from coastal scrub to thermophilic, laurel, and pine forests. Its abrupt topography includes numerous ravines and cliffs, providing varied terrain for mountain bike trails. Riders can expect routes with significant elevation changes and challenging sections through volcanic landscapes and dense vegetation.
Last updated: June 18, 2026
4.4
(28)
134
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.6
(10)
56
riders
45.2km
03:33
1,090m
1,090m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(6)
43
riders
51.8km
04:57
1,380m
1,380m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(6)
28
riders
49.0km
05:16
1,720m
1,720m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.7
(13)
28
riders
52.6km
04:44
1,270m
1,270m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Snow is a 16th-century church dedicated to the Virgin of the Snow, the patron saint of the island of La Palma. Located 3 km from Santa Cruz, it is situated in a high-lying, wooded area by the gorge of the same name. In a cave near the sanctuary, an image of the Virgin Mary is said to have been found, which the Benahaoritas already venerated. The origin of the image is not certainly known. However, as it is a polychrome terracotta figure in the Romanesque-Gothic style, it could originate from Sevillian workshops of the 14th century and have reached the island through missionary monks.
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A top viewpoint of the crater and the cone. Worth a detour
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The way to the church is well marked with street signs.
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A deep sinkhole opens up here: It's a volcanic vent approximately 70 meters deep, which can be circumnavigated on secured paths. A few steps allow you to descend into the hole, but trying to see the bottom is doomed to failure.
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If you're lucky, there's a great view here; if you're unlucky, fog 😄.
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Splendid church not to be missed with a typical view of the valleys that we can have in La Palma.
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Perfect uphill out of Santa Cruz: not steep, nice views, very few cars !
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There are over 80 mountain bike trails around Breña Alta, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from moderate paths to challenging ascents through volcanic terrain.
Breña Alta's trails are shaped by its volcanic origins, featuring diverse landscapes from coastal scrub to thermophilic, laurel, and pine forests. You can expect varied terrain, including significant elevation changes, deep ravines, and challenging sections through volcanic landscapes and dense vegetation.
While many trails in Breña Alta are moderate to difficult, there is at least one easy mountain bike trail available. It's always recommended to check the specific route details on komoot to ensure it matches your skill level and preferences.
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Breña Alta offers numerous difficult routes. Consider the Santa Cruz Uphill Road – View from Montaña de la Breña loop from Barranco Espino B, a 45.5 km path with significant elevation changes, or the Tajogaite Volcano Viewpoint – Hoyo de la Sima loop from Breña Baja, which covers 52.0 km through demanding volcanic terrain.
Breña Alta's trails often pass by stunning natural features. You might encounter the dramatic Cubo de la Galga Gorge with its jungle-like laurel forests, or enjoy panoramic views from viewpoints like the Astronomical Viewpoint of Llano de la Venta. The region is also part of the Parque Natural de Cumbre Vieja, offering unique volcanic landscapes.
Yes, many mountain bike routes in Breña Alta are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Vuelta al Cumbre Vieja por la pista Oeste y la pista del Cabrito, a moderate 36.3 km loop through the Parque Natural de Cumbre Vieja.
The mountain bike trails in Breña Alta are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 280 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, challenging terrain, and the opportunity to explore the island's unique volcanic beauty.
Breña Alta enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for outdoor activities in most seasons. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for mountain biking, offering comfortable temperatures and lush scenery. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Breña Alta is rich in viewpoints offering expansive vistas. Many trails lead to or pass by spots like the Astronomical Viewpoint of Llano de la Venta, which provides magnificent panoramic views of La Palma's east coast. The View from Montaña de la Breña loop from La Dehesa is another route that offers rewarding views.
Yes, the region offers natural attractions including waterfalls. You might find routes that lead to or near the Colorful Waterfall, a notable highlight in the area, providing a refreshing stop during your ride.
For general information about Breña Alta and its natural attractions, you can visit the official tourism website for La Palma: visitlapalma.es. This can provide additional context for planning your mountain biking adventure.
Due to its volcanic origins and abrupt topography, mountain bike trails in Breña Alta often feature significant elevation changes. Many routes include challenging ascents and descents, with some difficult trails accumulating over 1000 meters of elevation gain, such as the Pared Vieja Recreation Area – View from Montaña de la Breña loop from Tunel viejo.


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