La Gomera - The Marvellous Mystic Isle

La Gomera is the second smallest of the seven main Canary Islands. The island is of volcanic origin and roughly circular; it is about 22 km (15 miles) in diameter and rises to 1,487 m (nearly 5,000 feet) at the island‘s highest peak, Garajonay. Its shape is rather like an orange that has been cut in half and then split into segments, which has left deep ravines or barrancos between them.

La Gomera is the second smallest Canary Island and one of the most unspoiled. The upper reaches of this densely wooded region are La Gomera is blessed with an incredible diversity and natural beauty, and still one of the most unspoiled. The upper reaches of this densely wooded region are covered in lush and diverse vegetation. The central mountains catch the moisture from the trade wind clouds and yield a dense jungle climate in the cooler air, which contrasts with the warmer, sun-baked cliffs near sea level. Between these extremes one finds a fascinating gamut of microclimates.

La Gomera’s biggest asset is undoubtedly its stunning scenery. El Cedro, the biggest laurel forest in the world around Mount Garajonay has been acknowledged by UNESCO as particularly precious and has been listed World Heritage.

A spectacular sight is the Valle Gran Rey (great king’s village) with its black sandy beaches. All over La Gomera a variety of paths and roads take you through picturesque landscapes along the sea and to the best viewing platforms like 3,000 ft high Degollada de Peraza between Vallehermoso and San Sebastián.

Los Organos are spectacular rock formations on the northern shore resembling organ pipes rising up to 260 feet above the water. The volcanic origin gives the island a slightly rugged look and an exciting, rough coastline, but there are altogether 9 miles of beach line the shores.

La Gomera has charming little villages like Playa de Santiago, Chipude, El Cercado, and Las Hayas. The northern part of La Gomera has a pleasantly mild climate and resulting green landscapes. This is where you will find the supposedly most beautiful village: Agulo. Surrounded by a belt of banana plantations and situated in front of a red cliff this place has a stunning view over the Atlantic Ocean.

Climate

Located on the Canary Islands in the very south of Spain; La Gomera enjoys a subtropical climate with long, hot summers that can last for up to a period of eleven months. It is typically beautiful and warm throughout the year with little seasonal variation. La Gomera also has little variation in its hours of daylight; even in the shortest days of “winter”, the area is still light and warm until much later.

Climate Table