If you’re planning a visit to the Canary Islands, you won’t want to miss La Gomera. This beautiful island is known for its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and warm, welcoming people. One of the most fascinating aspects of La Gomera is its unique whistling language, known as Silbo Gomero. This language was developed by the island’s inhabitants as a way to communicate across long distances and over the island’s rugged terrain. The language is based on Spanish, but uses a series of whistles and pitches to convey words and phrases. The whistling can be heard for up to two miles, allowing people to communicate with each other even when they are out of sight. The Silbo Gomero was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. Today, the whistling language is still taught in schools on La Gomera, and you can hear it being used by locals in some parts of the island. Visitors to La Gomera can even take a class in Silbo Gomero, where they can learn to whistle basic words and phrases. Experiencing the whistling language is a truly unique and fascinating aspect of La Gomera’s culture and history, and is a must-see for anyone interested in the island’s rich heritage.
One of the best ways to explore the island is by car, as it allows you to visit the main sites at your own pace and take in the natural beauty of the island. After taking a ferry from Tenerife you can start your journey in the island’s capital, San Sebastian. Here you can explore the historic center of the city, with its charming colonial architecture and picturesque plazas. Visit the Casa Colón, the former home of Christopher Columbus, and the Torre del Conde, a 15th-century fortress that played a key role in the island’s history.
A must-visit site is the town of Hermigua, located in the north of the island. This historic town is known for its traditional architecture, narrow streets, and charming squares. Visit the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, a beautiful church that dates back to the 16th century, and the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the island’s history and culture.
One of the most spectacular sites to visit on La Gomera is the glass mirador, or viewpoint, located in the small town of Agulo. This modern structure offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the neighboring island of Tenerife and the towering cliffs of the nearby Garajonay National Park. The design of the mirador is unique, with a glass floor that extends out over the edge of the cliff, providing an exhilarating view of the valley below.
After the glass mirador we headed to the Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the island’s top attractions. The park is home to a stunning laurel forest, which is one of the last of its kind in the world. Hiking through the Enchanted Forest of La Gomera is a truly magical experience. This lush and verdant laurel forest is one of the last of its kind in the world, and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forest is home to a stunning array of flora and fauna, including endemic species that can only be found on the island.
As you hike through the forest, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees, verdant undergrowth, and the sound of bubbling streams and cascading waterfalls. The air is filled with the sweet scent of laurel, and the damp ground is home to a multitude of mushrooms and other fungi. The Enchanted Forest offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. No matter what your level of experience, you’ll find a trail that suits your abilities and interests. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the most spectacular natural sites on the island, including the Roque de Agando, one of La Gomera’s most iconic landmarks. Hiking through the Enchanted Forest is a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and connected to the natural world.
Hiking to the top of La Gomera is a challenging and rewarding experience for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors. The island’s highest point is Garajonay Peak, which stands at an elevation of 1,487 meters. The trail to the peak is steep and strenuous, but the stunning views at the summit are well worth the effort. As you climb higher, you’ll pass through a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to rocky outcroppings and open meadows. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of endemic plants and animals, including the Canary Island lizard and the laurisilva tree, which is unique to the island. The summit offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean, and on a clear day, you can even see neighboring islands like Tenerife and La Palma. The perfect last views to burn into our memory before leaving La Gomera for the next island!
