More than 600 km of hiking trails – from the coast to the mystical laurel forest
La Gomera is one of the best hiking islands in Europe. More than 600 km of waymarked trails are spread over a good 370 km² – from easy coastal walks through deep gorges to challenging climbs up to the plateau. The long-distance trails GR 131 and GR 132 cross the island from San Sebastián de La Gomera via Vallehermoso to Valle Gran Rey, plus numerous PR circular routes. Spectacular views can be reached almost everywhere on hikes on La Gomera – the terrain is steep and the differences in altitude are big.
The great advantage: thanks to the mild climate of the Canaries you can hike all year round. The most pleasant time is between October and May, when it is not too warm and the vegetation shines in many colours after the winter rains – while the laurel forests in the north stay evergreen anyway. We have written down month by month how the best time to visit La Gomera spreads over the year.
Starts right at our apartments – through the gorge to the small but lovely waterfall in the barranco. The classic on the doorstep.
One of the classics: steeply up to the plateau with a magnificent view of the valley, then on through terraced fields to Arure and the Mirador del Santo viewpoint.
2 possible starting points.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site: a mystical cloud forest with moss-covered trees. Several circular routes from El Cercado or Laguna Grande; the table mountain La Fortaleza is nearby.
A relaxed walk through the districts of the valley down to the beach – ideal for settling in on your first day.
The route leads past the famous rock needles – La Gomera’s landmarks made of basalt volcanic rock.
Along the north coast with views of Tenerife, the Teide and, on a clear day, as far as La Palma. Greener and damper than the south.
Yes. With daytime temperatures between 20 and 29 °C, hiking is possible all year – most pleasantly from October to May, when there is no summer heat. Up in the national park it is noticeably cooler and damper than down in the valley, so a light jacket belongs in your rucksack even in winter.
Not for the main trails – they are well waymarked. Guided tours are offered in Valle Gran Rey and are worth it for more remote routes or if you would like to hear interesting stories about the island and its vegetation.
La Calera – El Guro – La Playa. Hardly any climbing, lovely views and you can stop at any time, because the path leads through inhabited areas. A good first walk to get a feel for the valley. A hiking guidebook lists more easy routes.
Yes – the waterfall hike starts at the foot of our house, so you do not have to drive anywhere first. The climb towards La Mérica also starts within walking distance. That is one of the reasons why many hikers stay with us: set off in the morning without getting into the car first.
Our apartments are right at the start of the waterfall hike.
