In El Pinar there are various hiking routes, such as the route to Torre del Time and the route to Roque de los Muchachos, the highest peak on the island, at a height of 2426 meters. The middle of the island is a richly forested crest of volcanoes. This Cumbre is the reason why La Palma is an island. The north and eastern part of La Palma is green while the west tends to be warmer and drier. On the sunny west side is where you will find the village of El Pinar. In the green north and northeast there are deep ravines and small villages. The south is a young, volcanic landscape where, in 1971, a volcanic eruption was last seen. The massive flow of lava from the Teneguia volcano reached the ocean thus increasing the size of La Palma by a few hundred square meters. Centrally located on the island is the volcanic crater of Caldera de Taburiente. The Caldera has a diameter of 8 km and is 1500 meters deep. The best way to visit this natural wonder is on foot. In the heart of the Caldera you will find small streams, fountains and small rivers. The best beaches and the pleasant, small city of Los Llanos are located on the sunny western side of the island. The town of San Andres is one of the oldest and most beautiful villages of Las Palmas. On the square, next to the church, you can eat delicious ‘tapas’. A walk from San Andres to the natural pool of Charco Azul is highly recommended. The beach of Playa Nogales is known for turtles, which come ashore to lay their eggs here. A ship sets sail every day from the port of Tazacorte to observe dolphins. The chance to see dolphins is about 75%.