La Gomera is one of the most beautiful and at the same time least touristy Canary Islands. If you are looking for authentic nature, wild mountains, misty forests, and quiet villages, La Gomera is the ideal destination. This island is known for its historical connections to Christopher Columbus, incredible viewpoints, and the unique language silbo gomero. It is an absolutely perfect escape from the crowds of tourists on Tenerife.
If you are escaping from Tenerife, you might also find my article about it useful: 30 tips on what to see and do. I have also prepared interesting places to see and things to experience on La Gomera! If those aren’t enough, I have more locations in my map along with plenty of spots on Tenerife.
How to get to La Gomera?
Ferry: The best way to get to the island is by ferry from Tenerife (Los Cristianos).
Boat transport between the islands is provided by two ferry companies. I recommend searching on Direct Ferries, which will give you all the available options.
- Fred Olsen Express – the journey takes 50 minutes.
- Naviera Armas – a slightly slower but cheaper option.
Car: If you want to explore the island well, I recommend renting a car directly at the port of San Sebastián. Compare the cheapest options here.
You can fly to Tenerife from Prague, but also from Vienna for a good price. Round-trip ticket prices start at around 2,000 CZK if you buy in advance. I prefer searching on Skyscanner and Pelikán because they often have better prices than the carriers themselves. You can find out how to get cheap flights in this article.
Cheapest dates for 2026
If you enter flexible dates on Skyscanner, you’ll get the best prices. These change constantly, so don’t wait to buy.
- 28.2. – 6.3.
- 9.3. – 17.3.
- 19.5 – 26.5.
- 17.6. – 24.6.
- 13.9. – 24.9.
- 13.10. – 22.10.
- 3.11. – 10.11
- 1.12. – 9.12.
Where to stay on La Gomera
We mostly camped, but in San Sebastian we used the quiet Hotel Villa Gomera. On the other side of the island, I recommend Casa La Alameda.
What to see and do on La Gomera?
Kanárské ostrovy: Mapa 200+ míst na Tenerife a La Gomeře
Objevte krásy Kanárských ostrovů – Tenerife a La Gomery s mojí podrobnou digitální mapou, která obsahuje 180+ míst na těchto rozmanitých ostrovech. Prozkoumejte devět kategorií mapy. Perfektní pomocník pro plánování dovolené!
Garajonay – a magical misty forest and the island’s highest peak
The heart of the island is Garajonay National Park, which is among the best-preserved laurel forests in the world. Thanks to the constant humidity and mists, ancient moss-covered trees grow here, creating a magical atmosphere. I recommend going early in the morning; otherwise, the viewpoints are often shrouded in fog.
What to see and do here?
- Pico de Garajonay (1,487 m) – the island’s highest peak with a fantastic view of Tenerife, La Palma, and El Hierro.
- Sendero El Cedro – one of the most beautiful hiking trails leading through forests, waterfalls, and mountain streams.
- Mirador El Rejo – a viewpoint with a breathtaking panorama of the island.
Several marked hiking trails lead through the park – most are easy to moderate and ideal for hiking trips. You can find the best ones in my map of Tenerife and La Gomera.
Roque de Agando – the island’s iconic rock
This monumental volcanic monolith is one of the most famous symbols of La Gomera. It is located in the middle of a mountainous landscape and offers amazing views of the entire island.
The best view of Roque de Agando is from Mirador de los Roques. An ideal spot for sunrise photography!
San Sebastián de La Gomera – the town where Columbus anchored
San Sebastián is the capital of La Gomera and the place where Christopher Columbus stopped on his voyage to America in 1492.
Most interesting sights
- Torre del Conde – a 15th-century fortress, the oldest building on the island.
- Iglesia de la Asunción – the church where Columbus allegedly attended the last mass before setting sail.
- Columbus House (Casa de Colón) – a museum dedicated to Columbus’s voyages and the history of the island.
The port in San Sebastián is the main entry point to the island – this is where the ferries from Tenerife arrive.
Mirador de Abrante – a glass viewpoint over the ocean
This glass platform literally hangs over the cliff. It makes you feel like you are floating above the ocean. The viewpoint is a short distance from the village of Agulo, which is one of the most beautiful on the island.
Valle Gran Rey – allegedly the most beautiful valley in La Gomera
Valle Gran Rey is the best place on the island for relaxation and swimming. This valley was previously popular with hippies and still maintains a laid-back atmosphere today.
What to experience here?
Playa del Inglés – a beautiful volcanic beach with a wild atmosphere.
Unforgettable sunsets – the best view is from the coastal promenade.
Dolphin and whale watching – local boats offer eco-friendly trips to see marine mammals.
Hermigua – forgotten plantations and natural pools
Hermigua is an agricultural area where bananas, avocados, and sugar cane are grown. In addition, you will find beautiful natural pools here.
Piscina Natural de Hermigua – a natural pool protected from the Atlantic waves.
Pescante de Hermigua natural bridge – a historical structure that once served for loading bananas onto ships.
Fortaleza de Chipude – the mystical mountain of the ancient Guanches
This table mountain was once a sacred site for the Guanches, the original inhabitants of the Canary Islands. Today, it is a popular hiking trail with a beautiful view. The hike starts in the village of Chipude and takes about 2 hours. An ideal spot for stargazing, as there is no light pollution here!
Vallehermoso – the north of La Gomera without tourists
Vallehermoso (translated as “Beautiful Valley”) is a traditional agricultural area with largely untouched nature. An ideal place for those who want to escape the crowds.
- Roque Cano – a monumental basalt rock, the dominant symbol of the valley.
- Vallehermoso – Ermita de Santa Clara – Playa de Vallehermoso route (approx. 10 km) – a beautiful trek over the mountains down to the sea.
- Monumento Natural de Los Órganos – This monumental formation resembles organ pipes carved into the rock – it is a columnar basalt formation created by volcanic activity and is accessible only from the sea, though the view of it is also great.
Conclusion – why visit La Gomera?
La Gomera is one of the most beautiful and authentic Canary Islands. Unlike busy Tenerife, here you will find peace, amazing nature, and a traditional atmosphere.
If you are looking for adventure, hiking, and unspoiled nature, you will love this island! If the selection wasn’t enough, get my map.
Kanárské ostrovy: Mapa 200+ míst na Tenerife a La Gomeře
Objevte krásy Kanárských ostrovů – Tenerife a La Gomery s mojí podrobnou digitální mapou, která obsahuje 180+ míst na těchto rozmanitých ostrovech. Prozkoumejte devět kategorií mapy. Perfektní pomocník pro plánování dovolené!
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about La Gomera
How to get to La Gomera from Tenerife?
The best way to get to the island is by ferry from Tenerife (Los Cristianos). Boat transport between the islands is provided by two ferry companies. I recommend searching on Direct Ferries, which will give you all the available options. Naviera Armas – a slightly slower but cheaper option. Fred Olsen Express – the journey takes 50 minutes.
Do I need a car on La Gomera?
It depends on your needs; if you really want to get to know the island and don’t want to cross it on foot, I recommend renting a car. While public transport exists, connections are sparse in some places and many beautiful spots are not accessible by bus. We walked and used the bus or hitchhiked and really enjoyed it.
How difficult is hiking on La Gomera?
Hiking here is very diverse – from easy walks through Garajonay to demanding mountain treks with elevation gain. The trails are well-marked and suitable for various fitness levels.
When is the best time to visit?
La Gomera is ideal year-round, but the most pleasant conditions are from October to May. Summer can be hot in the lowlands, but the climate remains mild at higher altitudes.
Can you camp on the island?
Yes, there are designated campsites and free camping zones, for example in Garajonay National Park, but you need to obtain a permit. Wild camping outside these zones is prohibited.
Is La Gomera suitable for families with children?
Yes, but rather for families looking for nature and peace than a resort-type holiday. Hiking trails, natural pools, and cultural experiences are suitable for children who enjoy exploring.
Planning a holiday? These articles will come in handy
You can find what food to pack for treks here.
What about cheap travel insurance? You can find out about 50% off AXA insurance here.
You can read about which food supplements I take on treks here.
For a pro tip on how to get cheap flights, click here.
