The best places to visit in La Gomera

As well as no-fly, all-inclusive convenience, you’ll enjoy small-ship luxury amongst like-minded guests. And that luxury begins with a complimentary private chauffeur to the port and home again.

From your spacious balcony cabin to fine dining in a choice of restaurants, there’s no better way to explore the beautiful Canary Islands, than with a cruise to La Gomera.

Top Things to do in La Gomera

La Gomera is the third-smallest of the eight main Canary Islands – a lovely, untouched island measuring just 20 kilometres from north to south. Its volcanic origin accounts for its dramatic mountainous landscape: split into many segments, with deep ravines or barrancos in between them.

On the very tops of these barrancos sits one of La Gomera’s main claims to fame: Garajonay National Park. Now protected by national park status, the primeval laurisilva forest is a survivor of the last Ice Age and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.

When you walk through this magical forest, remember that this is what most of the Mediterranean mountainscape was like, millions of years ago. You’re truly taking a walk back through time.

San Sebastián de la Gomera: Step straight into history

Our cruise port in La Gomera couldn’t be better situated for a tour of San Sebastián de la Gomera, the island’s capital. Head for nearby Torre del Conde Park, dominated by the unmistakable silhouette of the Torre del Conde. This tower, erected in the fifteenth century, was built as a Spanish fortress and is considered the Canary Island’s most important example of military architecture.

Conveniently nearby, you’ll find a link to the town’s other main claim to fame: Casa de Colón, built on the site where Columbus stayed when he made his three visits to the island.

Today, the building houses a spectacular display of ancient pottery from the South American Chimú tribes, and an upstairs gallery featuring art and photography exhibitions.

For more about Christopher Columbus, visit Casa de Aguada. Here you’ll find a permanent collection relating to his discovery of America.

The ancient and beautiful Iglesia de la Virgen del Asunción, too, is associated with the great explorer. He and his men are supposed to have prayed here before setting off on their voyage into the unknown.

Visit the town market on Avenida de Colón, open daily from 08.00 to 15.00, to discover local delicacies including the famous sweet, smoky ‘palm honey’ made from guarapo…the sap of the palm trees that line La Gomera’s lower slopes.

La Gomera Beaches

La Gomera offers a variety of beaches from the popular black sand Playa de Valle Gran Rey to the tranquil Playa de Alojera, surrounded by cliffside scenery. Playa de la Cueva is also a sought-after spot thanks to its sheltered space for swimming, along with Playa de San Sebastian with its calm waters.

For a little beach life, the Playa de San Sebastián lies directly opposite the port and boasts 500 metres of fine black sand and crystal-clear water.

Stopping for a drink and a snack? Why not try a glass of the delicious local white wine? 80% of its vines are the ‘forastera’ variety which is unique to the island.

Our La Gomera shore excursion: Walking in Garajonay National Park

Hike through the labyrinth of green forests and woodland of Garajonay National Park. With a local guide, this walk will take you up to El Alto de Garajonay, the highest point on La Gomera, nearly five thousand feet above sea level – ideal for views of Mount Teide and the surrounding Canary Islands. 

An additional short stop at Agando Rock will give you a chance to enjoy the views of Benchijigua Valley. Once you reach the National Park, your journey on foot will allow you to spot rare fauna species that grow here which have completely disappeared in other parts of the world: one example is Erica Arborea, a heather plant that can grow to a height of over fifty feet. 

After your walk, a drive through the National Park will reveal the typical Canarian villages of Agulo and Hermigua.

Can you walk around La Gomera?

La Gomera is a great place for hikes and walks, with well-preserved trails throughout the island’s dramatic landscapes. From coastal walks to routes through UNESCO-listed Garajonay National Park, La Gomera offers plenty of walking opportunities.

What is there to see on La Gomera?

La Gomera boasts natural wonders including the forests of Garajonay National Park, volcanic cliffs and local villages like Agulo and Hermigua. Don’t miss the view from Mirador de Abrante or the unique whistling language still practiced on the island.

How do you get around La Gomera without a car?

Getting around La Gomera without a car is easy with the island’s bus network connecting key towns and attractions. Alternatively, you can explore on foot, as many of the island’s highlights are accessible through its extensive network of walking trails.

Whether it’s the serene beaches of Tenerife or the rugged beauty of Lanzarote, the Canary Islands have something for everyone. Explore our range of cruises to the Canaries to find the perfect itinerary for your next adventure.