The PR LP 16 connects two of the island’s most strategic points for very different reasons. It starts at the El Pilar Refuge, a natural crossroads between Cumbre Nueva and Cumbre Vieja, and ends in La Bajita, next to the island’s airport. The route begins with a section shared with the PR LP 17. In Hoya del Rehielo, the two paths separate, and the PR LP 16 skirts the southern side of Montaña de El Caldero (1,624 meters). One kilometer later, after crossing the SL VM 125, it changes direction and turns slightly north. Below Montaña de Las Toscas, El Pueblo awaits, the main urban center of the municipality, marking the end of two-thirds of the route. The yellow markings guide you downhill through its cobbled streets, which serve as the setting for the famous Corpus Christi festival.
Halfway along the route, we find the turnoff to Roque Niquiomo, whose silhouette is visible from all over the region. However, access to its summit is off the trail and can be dangerous. At its base, we find a deep natural chasm, caused by the violent expulsion of gases of volcanic origin. Immediately afterwards, the trail divides again at the intersection of the PR LP 16.1 (towards La Salemera). We pass to the left of the Church of San Blas and end up next to a traditional mill, converted into a craft workshop. From here to La Bajita, the trail runs through an area with abundant dry stone wineries, among which some cereal orchards can still be distinguished.
A landscape of fences and pastures indicates the livestock importance of the area immediately before El Pueblo. You will most likely find peaceful examples of rubia palmera, an indigenous breed of the island. These animals are especially appreciated for their strength, which makes them the protagonists of the hauling contests. In the lower areas of the route (collectively known as El Hoyo), the focus shifts to the vineyards, as the Mazo wineries produce wines of excellent quality.
