Things to Do in La Gomera
Known as the “Columbus Island”, in honour of Cristóbal Colón, as this was his last stop before setting sail for the New World, La Gomera enjoys a mild climate all year round. Visiting the island means soaking up its sunsets from the many viewpoints scattered across the landscape.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its beautiful laurel forest is home to some of the most stunning hiking trails in the Canary Islands and offers plenty of things to do in La Gomera. The silbo gomero, a unique whistled language used by locals to communicate over long distances, is another of the island’s highlights and something you really shouldn’t miss.
If you’re staying in Tenerife, I usually recommend booking this excursion and spending at least a day here, as taking a car from one island to another is often much more expensive. If you’re thinking of staying longer, my advice is to allow at least three days to explore the island at a relaxed pace.
1. Parque Nacional de Garajonay
The Parque Nacional de Garajonay is the island’s greatest natural treasure and a must on any list of things to do in La Gomera. Declared a World Heritage Site, it protects one of the finest laurel forests in the world, a prehistoric ecosystem that survives thanks to constant humidity and the mist that shrouds its trails for much of the year.
Do you enjoy hiking? Then you really shouldn’t leave the island without visiting this area. The network of trails is very well signposted and, although there are routes for all levels, I recommend one of the easiest: the trail that starts at the visitor centre, is around 3 km long and is perfect for the whole family.
Legend has it that a princess called Gara and a prince named Jonay chose to flee and die together rather than live apart. Other theories suggest the name comes from a Guanche word meaning “tall rock”. Which version do you prefer?
If you don’t want to miss any of the best corners of this park, the easiest option is to book this excursion.
2. Viewpoints of La Gomera (Abrante, Los Roques, Hermigua…)
Known as the island of viewpoints, La Gomera offers unforgettable landscapes from its many natural balconies. Its rugged terrain, filled with deep ravines and steep slopes, lets you enjoy spectacular views of both the island’s interior and the Atlantic Ocean.
Here are three essential viewpoints to visit in La Gomera:
- Mirador de Abrante, the most popular on social media, with its glass walkway suspended over the Agulo valley.
- Mirador de Igualero, closely linked to the silbo gomero.
- Mirador de Los Roques, where you can see ancient volcanic formations set within the landscape of Garajonay National Park.
You can find a complete list of more than 30 viewpoints on the island’s official website. Including a few of them in your itinerary will help you understand La Gomera’s geography better and enjoy postcard-perfect sunsets that are hard to forget.
3. Valle Gran Rey
Valle Gran Rey is the island’s best-known tourist area and one of the top places to visit in La Gomera. This valley stretches from the mountains down to the sea and combines volcanic sand beaches with a laid-back atmosphere.
Its beaches, such as La Calera, La Puntilla and Playa del Inglés, are perfect for a refreshing dip while watching some of the most beautiful sunsets on the island. You’ll also find a good selection of restaurants and accommodation here, all while keeping a calm, unspoilt feel.
Valle Gran Rey is also the best starting point for hiking routes that head into Garajonay National Park. I recommend stopping at one of its viewpoints, such as the Mirador de la Curva del Queso, for exceptional views of the area.
4. San Sebastián de La Gomera
The gateway to the island, San Sebastián de La Gomera is the capital. This small town combines the friendliness of its locals with a relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect introduction to the island’s character.
The town is closely linked to Cristóbal Colón, who made his final stop here before sailing to America in 1492. Visit places such as the Torre del Conde, the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción or the harbour to discover this important historical legacy.
As well as its cultural appeal, San Sebastián offers urban beaches, a seafront promenade, and plenty of bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat. It’s an ideal place to spend at least a morning.
5. Monumento Natural de Los Órganos
Los Órganos are one of the most impressive geological formations to see in La Gomera, and I’d even say in the whole Canary Islands. Made up of basalt columns, this enormous cliff resembles the pipes of a church organ, which is where its name comes from.
Located on the island’s north coast, they can only be admired from the sea, so I recommend booking a boat trip. This way, you’ll really appreciate their scale and understand the volcanic processes that created them.
6. Hermigua
Hermigua is one of the greenest and most fertile valleys in La Gomera, characterised by its terraced fields that run from the mountains down to the sea. This traditional agricultural landscape is another highlight to visit in La Gomera.
In the valley, you’ll find the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación and the iconic pescante de Hermigua, a structure once used for loading and unloading goods. If you’ve got time and fancy a swim, there are also natural pools near the coast.
As well as strolling around and enjoying the island’s most rural and authentic side, in Hermigua you can book this ticket to visit the Parque Etnográfico de La Gomera – Los Telares and learn more about local traditions.
7. Roque de Agando
Standing over 1,250 metres above sea level, Roque de Agando is one of the most striking natural landmarks to see in La Gomera. This impressive volcanic needle rises sharply from the landscape and forms part of the group known as Los Roques, ancient volcanic conduits that have withstood erosion for millions of years.
Its silhouette, visible from many points around the island, has become one of the most iconic images of La Gomera’s interior. The best way to admire Roque de Agando is from the nearby viewpoints, especially the Mirador del Morro de Agando, which offers spectacular views of the rock and Garajonay National Park.
Local tradition has long linked it to aboriginal legends, considering it a place full of spirituality. Although it’s not possible to climb to the summit, I recommend booking this excursion if you’re visiting the island from Tenerife, as an expert guide will explain all the history behind this fascinating spot.
8. Bosque del Cedro
Within Garajonay National Park lies the Bosque del Cedro, another essential stop to visit in La Gomera and one of the best ways to experience the laurel forest. Constant humidity, mist and lush vegetation create an almost magical setting here.
The most popular route is a short circular trail, well signposted and easy to follow, taking you through a dense forest of moss-covered trees, ferns, lichens and small streams. It’s a perfect walk to understand how this ecosystem works while enjoying a cool, peaceful environment.
The mix of vegetation, mist and changing light means every visit feels different, making this forest an unmissable stop to explore Garajonay beyond its viewpoints.
9. Agulo
Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful villages in the Canary Islands, Agulo is another must to visit in La Gomera. Its perfectly preserved historic centre sits on a natural platform that acts like a balcony overlooking the ocean, with privileged views of Mount Teide on the neighbouring island of Tenerife.
Stroll through its historic centre and visit places like the Iglesia de San Marcos or the town hall. From the viewpoints around Agulo, you can also enjoy some of the most beautiful sunsets on the island, as golden light bathes the valley and the sea.
10. Vallehermoso
Vallehermoso is one of the largest municipalities on the island and a great example of the landscape diversity to see in La Gomera. Its territory stretches from the highlands down to the north coast, passing through green valleys, scattered hamlets and traditional farming areas.
The historic centre of Vallehermoso stands out for its peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved traditional Canarian architecture. Wander along its cobbled streets and visit the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista, one of the prettiest churches on the island.
Vallehermoso is an ideal stop to experience local life, enjoy the scenery and sample Gomeran cuisine. Just a few kilometres away, you’ll also find the La Encantadora dam, which collects water from the ravine and is used for irrigation.
Map of places to visit in La Gomera
In conclusion
As you’ve seen in this top 10 of things to do in La Gomera, its pleasant climate and laurel forest make this island a real must-visit in the Canary Islands.
Whether you spend just one day on an excursion or three because you’re staying longer, its dreamy sunsets and natural pools are sure to win you over.
If you’re planning a trip around the Canary Islands, combining La Gomera with Tenerife or Gran Canaria is one of the best ways to discover very different landscapes within the same archipelago.
