Marcos y Cordero: springs and tunnels
By four-wheel drive to Casa del Monte
A sense of humour helps on the way up: the classic access follows a long, narrow and bumpy forest track to Casa del Monte and is normally covered by 4x4 taxi. In this damp corner of north-eastern La Palma, the trade winds bring cloud and moisture to the slopes. Ferns, laurels and other plants grow so luxuriantly that the forest can feel almost primeval.
Casa del Monte stands at roughly 1,350 metres above sea level. From here the path follows the old water channel high above Barranco del Agua. Sheer rock, deep ravines and laurel forest alternate from the first few metres. A helmet, head torch and waterproof layer are essential before entering the tunnels.
Thirteen tunnels beside the channel
The path passes through thirteen tunnels cut into the rock. Some are short and bright; others are longer, narrow and completely dark. The occasional tap of a helmet against a low ceiling is a useful reminder to stay alert. Tunnel number 12 is the best known, as water falls from above and turns the crossing into a cold shower.
Between tunnel mouths, views reopen across Barranco del Agua. Aeoniums, ferns and numerous endemic plants cling to the damp rock faces. The contrast between darkness, spray and sudden mountain panoramas gives this section a character unlike almost any other trail on the island.
The springs of Marcos and Cordero
At the end of the tunnel section, water from the Marcos and Cordero springs emerges directly from the mountainside. Before being channelled in the early twentieth century, it flowed freely towards Barranco del Agua and helped shape the landscape over long periods. It remains one of the most important natural resources in the north-east of the island.
The cool shade around the springs contrasts sharply with the rough vehicle journey up. Water, laurel forest and rock meet within a remarkably small area. Anyone intending to continue should remember that the full descent towards Los Tilos is demanding and should not be confused with the shorter tunnel section.
Current trail status and planning
At the July 2026 editorial review, the PR LP 06 is only partially open: walkers may continue from Casa del Monte to the entrance of tunnel 12, while the section beyond it to Espigón Atravesado remains closed. The classic full descent from the springs to Los Tilos therefore cannot currently be completed as a continuous route.
Closures can change. Immediately before setting out, check the official status of the PR LP 06. The complete trail is 24.5 kilometres long and is classified as dangerous and suitable only for expert hikers. It must not be attempted in rain or uncertain weather.
There is no public transport to Casa del Monte; the 14-kilometre track is normally covered by 4x4 taxi. Whichever variation you choose, hiking boots, helmet, head torch, waterproofs, water and food are essential. Dogs are not permitted on the PR LP 06.