Just 30 kilometers off the coast of Tenerife, we find La Gomera, a rugged and wild island, sixth in size and population of the Canary Islands.
It is the only island of the archipelago without active volcanoes and here the wind has carved deep ravines, which descend rapidly from the 1,487 meters of Mount Garajonay to the sea. Within them and along the slopes, the inhabitants of La Gomera have adapted their lifestyle and built the first settlements, which over the centuries have become picturesque and cozy villages.
Every year more and more visitors decide to set sail to visit this unspoiled paradise and get to know the incredible traditions of the Gomeros.
How to get to La Gomera by ferry
It must be said that the sea is an important resource for travel on the island, as the rugged terrain makes traveling by road very difficult. In fact, La Gomera is the only island in the Canary Islands that has an inland ferry line, which connects the three ports of San Sebastian, Playa de Santiago and Valle Gran Rey.
There are no direct departures from the mainland to La Gomera. Therefore, it is necessary to make a stopover in Tenerife. You can arrive in Santa Cruz de Tenerife from Huelva or from Cadiz and then take a ferry from Los Cristianos to San Sebastian de La Gomera, which runs 6 times a day.
What to do in La Gomera
This remote corner of Europe is clearly known for its natural beauty, but that's not all you can enjoy in La Gomera. Between small old villages and charming resorts, designed to be sustainable, you'll find that this island can easily fill an entire vacation! Here are some areas and attractions not to be missed during your stay in La Gomera.
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Take a trip to Garajonay National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, this green heart in the center of La Gomera is home to numerous endemic species and the largest laurel forest in the Canary Islands. Delve into this lush prehistoric jungle and enjoy the magic of a place out of time.
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Visit San Sebastián de La Gomera. The capital of the island offers many points of historical and cultural interest that you should not miss, even if you are just passing through. Here you will find more information about the city and its historic port.
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Take a boat trip to the columns of Los Órganos. These basalt columns, the result of the rapid cooling of lava from ancient eruptions, are a natural spectacle that can only be admired by sea. Boats leave from Valle Gran Rey or Playa Santiago, and during the trip it is also possible to see whales and dolphins.
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Spend a relaxing day at Playa Santiago. It is the most touristic locality of the island, but it is nothing like the big and crowded centers of the other Canary Islands. You'll find small typical restaurants, bars and family-run stores along wonderful beaches. It also has a port used for local ferry and cruise traffic, which we tell you more about here.
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Explore Valle Gran Rey. Whether you want to relax on its fine black sand beaches, plumb the depths of its crystal clear waters, admire the views from the steep cliffs or venture along the many hiking trails in the surrounding area, this place will leave indelible memories in your mind. On this page we tell you about it in detail.
Want to know what awaits you on board the ferries to La Gomera? Keep reading to get all the information!
