La Gomera in 31 pictures, from Garajonay to Valle Gran Rey
A ferry from Los Cristianos links Tenerife with San Sebastián de la Gomera, the gateway to the laurel forests of the Garajonay national park, the villages of the north and the palm-filled valley in the west.
Johannes Bornewasser is an author, journalist and editor-in-chief of Teneriffa News. He is regarded as a recognised expert on the Canary Islands. Bornewasser is also responsible for the editorial content of the website.
7 min read
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The ferry takes you from Los Cristianos on Tenerife to the neighbouring island of La Gomera, arriving at the harbour of the tranquil island capital, San Sebastián de la Gomera. With around 9,000 inhabitants, this town is home to almost half the island's population (approximately 21,500).
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The Benchi Express connects San Sebastián with Playa Santiago to the south and Valle Gran Rey to the west. When it is in service, the passenger ferry runs three times a day.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
Returning from San Sebastián on the Benchi-Express to the harbour at Vueltas - pictured here after sunset. It is a district of Valle Gran Rey. Thanks to the ferry service, holidaymakers wishing to visit the island's capital can leave their cars behind for a change.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
Vueltas in Valle Gran Rey by day. The area is mainly home to apartment blocks and guesthouses. Nevertheless, the small fishing village still retains its traditional character and even boasts a genuine pub culture.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The small seaside promenade at La Playa in Valle Gran Rey is perfect for a stroll. It offers views over the valley's coastal hamlets.
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Photo: Klaus Trenz
Most holidaymakers on La Gomera head for the sun-drenched, palm-fringed Valle Gran Rey in the west of the island. The 'Valley of the Great King' is considered one of the most beautiful valleys in the Canary Islands.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
In the upper valley of Valle Gran Rey, it's well worth stopping off at the Mirador César Manrique. The view down into the valley is breathtaking. It also offers a clear view of the terraced fields.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
Although there's rarely much going on in the little square in La Playa in Valle Gran Rey, there's always a bit of a buzz. There are several restaurants near the square.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The cardboard sardine on the small lorry is needed for the carnival on La Gomera. After a 'funeral procession', it is set adrift at sea and set alight there. The 'burial of the sardine' marks the end of the carnival on the island.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
Fishing is permitted in a small area of Vueltas harbour. You should, however, have a fishing licence. It can be obtained from the town hall for a few euros and is valid for three years. It is not, however, a guarantee of a catch.
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Photo: Klaus Trenz
A hike or a walk through Garajonay National Park with its cloud forests is a must-do on La Gomera.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The cloud forest in the centre of La Gomera is the island's green lung, its heart and its water reservoir. Numerous well-signposted walking trails guide visitors.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The moss-covered trees in Garajonay National Park spark the imagination. They are reminiscent of fantasy novels.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
When it gets too hot on the coast, the cool, shady cloud forest beckons. For example, on the short circular walk near the village of Las Hayas.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
A view from the Mirador near the village of Arure into the Barranco Taguluche. From here, you can set off on one of the most beautiful walks across a plateau and down into the Valle Gran Rey.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The little town of Agulo, in the north of La Gomera, is set on a plateau overlooking the sea, framed by steep cliffs, and makes for a very picturesque sight.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
A stroll through the narrow streets of Agulo, past the little houses, is always well worth it.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The wild north of La Gomera has a charm all of its own. Here we find ourselves between Agulo and the centre of the north, Vallehermoso.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The little town of Vallehermoso («The Heavenly Valley») certainly lives up to its name. It is surrounded by lush greenery.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The earth is red at the Mirador de Abrante. This viewpoint, which has a restaurant, is a popular destination for many day-trippers and cruise passengers. On a clear day, the view stretches as far as Mount Teide on Tenerife.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
On the northern coastlines and rocky beaches, swimming is often not possible due to the swell. It is considered dangerous. However, the view of Mount Teide on Tenerife in the background more than makes up for it.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
Playa de Alojera is certainly not what you'd call a crowded beach. The journey there is an adventure in itself, and you'll be rewarded with a truly idyllic setting.
When the tide goes out along the coast at La Puntilla (Valle Gran Rey), visitors can find small fish and crabs in the pools - and, with a bit of luck or experience, the occasional squid.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
As on every Canary Island, the south of La Gomera is more barren than the rest of the island. Here, too, the barrancos are deep and characteristic of the island.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The Valle Gran Rey once again: in the foreground lies the mountain village of El Guro. It is one of the most extraordinary places on La Gomera - and in the Canary Islands as a whole.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
El Guro can only be reached on foot. Around 140 steps lead down to the village, where there are no cars. Those who rent a cottage or flat there can expect complete tranquillity.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
Because it's so beautiful: El Guro is still regarded as an artists' village today. It's an experience you'll never forget.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
Old farmhouses with typical Canary Islands wooden balconies in El Guro have been restored and converted into holiday apartments, without detracting from the original charm of this mountain village.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
A local from El Guro said: «The only thing that might bother you here is the occasional goat.» This particular one, however, prefers to climb around on the rocks rather than startle tourists.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
No holiday in the Canary Islands is complete without a sunset. The one in Valle Gran Rey is said to be the most beautiful. It has achieved cult status as a result.
Photo: Klaus Trenz
The Roque Agando in the morning light: this volcanic vent, exposed by erosion, is one of the most photographed sights on La Gomera. It can be described as one of the island's landmarks.
Photo: Johannes Bornewasser
Take a look now:
Stunning photos: 31 new highlights from La Gomera
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Photo: Johannes Bornewasser
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