The Canary Islands have long been a magnet for travelers seeking sun-drenched shores and vibrant landscapes, but one gem has remained quietly tucked away from the mainstream tourist trail: La Palma. Known as La Isla Bonita (The Beautiful Island), La Palma is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve that promises serene escapes, volcanic trails, and starlit skies. In a thrilling announcement, Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have unveiled plans to launch year-round flights to this breathtaking Spanish island from Manchester and London Stansted airports starting in 2026. This strategic expansion not only enhances accessibility to one of Spain’s lesser-known treasures but also positions La Palma as a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and tranquility enthusiasts alike. Let’s dive into what makes this development exciting, why La Palma is worth exploring, and how Jet2’s new routes will elevate your travel experience.
Why La Palma is the Canary Islands’ Best-Kept Secret
A Natural Paradise for Adventurers
Unlike its busier neighbors, Tenerife and Lanzarote, La Palma offers a tranquil retreat defined by its raw, unspoiled beauty. The island is home to 19 protected natural areas, including the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, where deep valleys, lush forests, and towering cliffs create a hiker’s paradise. Trails like those in La Cumbrecita weave through volcanic landscapes, offering panoramic views that blend rugged terrain with the glistening Atlantic Ocean. For those seeking a unique experience, La Palma’s dark sky parks provide some of the world’s best stargazing opportunities, with constellations sparkling vividly against unpolluted skies. As one traveler on Reddit described, “La Palma is less touristy than Tenerife, with spectacular sunsets and stunning green landscapes,” making it an ideal destination for those craving authenticity.
Cultural Richness and Coastal Charm
Beyond its natural wonders, La Palma boasts a vibrant cultural tapestry. Its capital, Santa Cruz de La Palma, is a charming town with narrow cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and a laid-back vibe. Visitors can explore local art galleries, savor Canarian cuisine at seaside restaurants, or join festivals that celebrate the island’s heritage. Coastal towns like Los Cancajos, Puerto Naos, and Tazacorte offer black-sand beaches and serene shorelines perfect for relaxation. Jet2holidays enhances this experience by partnering with local tour operators to offer curated excursions, from guided hikes to cultural tours, ensuring travelers can immerse themselves fully in La Palma’s unique blend of nature and tradition.
Jet2’s Game-Changing 2026 Flight Routes
Year-Round Access from Manchester and Stansted
Jet2’s announcement marks a significant milestone for UK travelers, as La Palma becomes the fifth Canary Island destination in the airline’s portfolio, joining Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, and Fuerteventura. Starting April 3, 2026, Jet2.com will operate two weekly flights (Mondays and Fridays) from Manchester Airport to La Palma, running year-round to capitalize on the island’s consistently warm climate. London Stansted follows with exclusive services beginning October 26, 2026, also offering two weekly flights on the same days. These direct routes make La Palma more accessible than ever, eliminating the need for connecting flights and opening the island to a broader audience of British holidaymakers.
Exclusive Holiday Packages for Every Traveler
Jet2holidays complements these flights with a range of ATOL-protected package holidays designed to suit various budgets and preferences. Travelers can choose from 2- to 4-star hotels in picturesque locations like Los Cancajos, Puerto Naos, and Tazacorte, with options starting at a modest £60 per person deposit. For example, a self-catering one-bedroom apartment in Los Cancajos is available from April 6–10, 2026, flying from Manchester, while a luxurious 4-star stay at Melia La Palma in Puerto Naos, complete with bed and breakfast and an infinity pool, can be booked from Stansted for £954 per person. These packages include return transfers, a 22kg baggage allowance, and in-resort customer support, ensuring a seamless and memorable holiday experience.
What Travelers Are Saying: Quotes That Capture La Palma’s Allure
Voices from the Community
The excitement surrounding Jet2’s new routes is palpable, with travelers and industry leaders alike sharing their enthusiasm. Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, stated, “The launch of La Palma gives holidaymakers and independent travel agents the chance to enjoy everything this incredible island has to offer. We are delighted to be expanding our presence across the Canary Islands by adding this brand-new gateway to our portfolio, appealing to holidaymakers looking to explore the island’s natural beauty.”
Raquel Rebollo, Minister of Tourism of the Cabildo of La Palma, emphasized the significance of this development for the island’s tourism growth: “The UK market is one of our priorities to open and attract to La Palma, and we are delighted to have achieved this, thanks to great collaboration and hard work with Jet2 and other partners.”
On social platforms, travelers are equally enthusiastic. A Reddit user praised La Palma as “a hidden gem with knockout scenery,” while an X post from @jet2tweets highlighted the island’s appeal: “Think you know the Canaries? Think again. La Palma = quiet hikes, stargazing skies, black-sand beaches.” These voices underscore La Palma’s growing reputation as a destination that blends adventure, relaxation, and natural splendor.
How Jet2 Enhances Your Travel Experience
Innovative Services for Stress-Free Journeys
Jet2 is renowned for its customer-centric approach, and the new La Palma routes are no exception. The airline’s “Twilight Check-In” service allows passengers at airports like Manchester and Stansted to drop off luggage the evening before early morning flights, reducing stress and queue times. Available between 4:30 PM and 9:00 PM, this service is a game-changer for travelers seeking convenience. Additionally, Jet2 has adopted contactless payment methods for onboard transactions and customer help desks, aligning with modern preferences for fast, hygienic interactions.
A Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
Jet2’s expansion to La Palma also reflects a commitment to sustainable tourism. By promoting a less touristy destination, the airline helps distribute visitor traffic across the Canary Islands, reducing pressure on overcrowded hotspots like Tenerife, which welcomed seven million visitors in 2024 compared to La Palma’s modest 120,000. Jet2holidays’ partnerships with local businesses ensure that tourism benefits the island’s economy, from small-scale tour operators to family-run hotels, fostering a travel experience that respects La Palma’s natural and cultural heritage.
Tech Spotlight: Booking Your La Palma Adventure
Seamless Online Platforms
Jet2’s user-friendly website (www.jet2.com) and mobile app make planning your La Palma getaway effortless. The platforms allow you to browse flight schedules, compare holiday packages, and book excursions with just a few clicks. Real-time availability and transparent pricing ensure you can secure the best deals, while the app’s digital boarding passes and flight status updates keep you informed on the go. For tech-savvy travelers, Jet2’s integration of contactless payments extends to online bookings, offering a secure and streamlined checkout process.
Social Media Engagement
Jet2 leverages social media to keep travelers inspired and informed. Their X account (@jet2tweets) regularly shares updates on new routes, destination highlights, and promotional offers, as seen in their La Palma announcement post that garnered significant engagement. By following Jet2 on X or Instagram, you can stay ahead of flash sales and exclusive deals, ensuring your 2026 trip to La Palma is both affordable and unforgettable.
Why This Matters for Your Next Holiday
The launch of Jet2’s La Palma routes is more than just a new flight schedule—it’s an invitation to discover a destination that offers a refreshing alternative to the Canary Islands’ more commercialized spots. Whether you’re hiking through volcanic craters, stargazing under pristine skies, or unwinding on a black-sand beach, La Palma promises a holiday that feels both adventurous and restorative. With Jet2’s reliable service, affordable packages, and commitment to customer satisfaction, planning your trip is as exciting as the journey itself. As 2026 approaches, La Palma is poised to step into the spotlight, and Jet2 is your ticket to experiencing its magic firsthand.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Jet2’s flights to La Palma start?
Jet2.com will begin year-round flights to La Palma from Manchester Airport on April 3, 2026, with two weekly services on Mondays and Fridays. Flights from London Stansted Airport will commence on October 26, 2026, also operating twice weekly on the same days.
What types of holiday packages are available for La Palma?
Jet2holidays offers a range of ATOL-protected packages, including 2- to 4-star hotels in Los Cancajos, Puerto Naos, and Tazacorte. Options range from budget-friendly self-catering apartments to luxurious stays like the 4-star Melia La Palma, with prices starting at £60 per person deposit.
Why is La Palma a unique destination?
La Palma, known as La Isla Bonita, is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve with 19 protected natural areas, offering hiking, stargazing, and black-sand beaches. Its tranquil atmosphere and lower tourist numbers (120,000 visitors in 2024 compared to Tenerife’s seven million) make it ideal for authentic, nature-focused holidays.
How does Jet2 ensure a smooth travel experience?
Jet2 enhances travel with services like Twilight Check-In, allowing luggage drop-off the evening before early flights, and contactless payments for onboard and desk transactions. Their user-friendly website and app also simplify booking and trip management.
Can I book excursions through Jet2holidays?
Yes, Jet2holidays partners with local tour operators to offer excursions such as guided hikes in Caldera de Taburiente National Park, cultural tours in Santa Cruz de La Palma, and visits to local art galleries, ensuring a rich and immersive experience.