La Gomera is becoming more and more popular as a top walking holiday destination. Fantastic, historic walking paths and a stunning, otherworldly landscape that is simultaneously rich laurel forest and high volcanic mountains, make the island a haven for hikers.
The smallest of the Canary Islands, La Gomera is only 15 miles wide and completely crisscrossed with a network of mountain paths and jungle trails. One of the most beautiful areas to discover is the misty Garajonay National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site (find out all about Garjonay here). If you want an outdoor adventure, this one is for you!
El Balcón de Santa Ana, located to the south of the island, makes for an incredible base from which to get out there and discover the island’s wonderful footpaths and forgotten landscapes. We have a list of recommended walks at reception with a range of distances and difficulties to get you started.
Recent visitors to Santa Ana, Keith and Di MacBrayne, set off from site on an excursion to the Barranco de Santiago, a ravine along the south coast. Not only did they enjoy the spectacular scenery but they also got a taste of local culture along the way – stopping to meet some of the locals and hearing an excellent demonstration of the islanders’ Silbo Gomero whistled language (find out more here). They paid a visit to a local goat farm where they were able to lend a helping hand and then sample the final product of smoked goats’ cheese.
The island is becoming such a popular destination that we were really excited to see Lonely Planet had featured La Gomera in its July edition. We couldn’t be prouder to be located on such a fabulous little island. The Lonely Planet spread is a spotlight on walking routes and features a collection of four walks that really allow hikers to explore the best of the ancient trails.
The great thing about La Gomera is that hundreds of walks wind their way across a really changeable landscape and each one offers something different allowing you to really absorb the island’s heritage. Make sure to ask for a walks pack at reception so you can choose which areas you’d like to explore.
Find out how to stay at Santa Ana and discover the walking trails for yourself by entering your details at the bottom of the page for more info.
