La Gomera holidays

How to reach La Gomera

• Flight time: There are no direct flights to La Gomera from Ireland. The closest airport is Tenerife South. Flights from Dublin to Tenerife typically take around 4.5 to 5 hours, depending on the route.

• Transfer time: From Tenerife South Airport, it’s about 20–30 minutes by taxi to the ferry port at Los Cristianos. The ferry to San Sebastián de La Gomera takes roughly 50 minutes and offers lovely sea views along the way.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to Los Cristianos port costs around €25–€30. Public buses are also available and are more budget-friendly, though they take longer. Ferry tickets to La Gomera cost around €40 return.

Best time to visit La Gomera

When you decide to go will depend on your idea of the perfect break – whether that’s warm days on quiet beaches or hiking in cooler conditions.

• April to June: Pleasant weather, with temperatures from 18°C to 22°C and hardly any rain. Great for exploring or relaxing in peace before the busy season kicks in.

• July and August: Hot and sunny, with highs often reaching above 25°C and up to 9 hours of sunshine a day. It’s peak season, so expect more visitors and slightly higher prices.

• September to November: Temperatures drop slightly (23°C in September down to 20°C in November). Rainfall starts to pick up, but you’ll still get 7 to 8 hours of sunshine most days. A quieter time to visit, ideal for walking and nature trips.

• December to March: Mild weather (16°C to 20°C) and increased rain, especially in December and January. Still, with 6 to 7 hours of sunshine a day, it’s a peaceful winter escape.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language, but English is spoken in most tourist areas, so getting by is easy enough for Irish visitors.

• Local habits and customs: Things move at a slower pace here. Siestas are common in the afternoon, and locals tend to dine later – often from 9pm onwards.

• Currency: The euro is used, and cash machines are easy to find. Card payments are accepted in most places, but it’s handy to keep some cash on you, especially in smaller towns.

• Getting around: Hiring a car is the easiest way to explore the island, with well-maintained roads and scenic drives. The bus network is limited, and taxis are fine for short distances.

• Electricity and plug types: La Gomera uses the standard European 220V, with two-pin plugs. You’ll need a travel adaptor if you’re bringing plugs from Ireland.

• Time zone: La Gomera is on the same time zone as Ireland (GMT in winter, GMT+1 in summer), so there’s no time difference to worry about.

Best things to do in La Gomera

With lush mountainous landscapes, natural wonders and stunning viewpoints, La Gomera appeals to nature lovers. Add to that beaches, family-friendly activities and a unique culture, this tiny island has something for everyone.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mirador de Abrante: The glass floor at this viewing point provides a unique view of the Atlantic Ocean and Agulo valley. On the clearest days, you can see as far as Mount Teide in Tenerife.

• Mirador de Igualero: In the centre of the island, this elevated lookout offers views in all directions taking in the Garajonay National Park.

The best districts

• San Sebastián: San Sebastián is a lovely town with its fair share of historical sites, shops and restaurants. Noteworthy attractions include the Torre del Conde, the oldest fortress in the Canary Islands, and the Church of the Assumption.

• Valle Gran Rey: Located on the west coast is one of the island's main tourist areas, renowned for its beautiful beaches, extensive palm groves and laid-back atmosphere.

Parks and gardens

• Garajonay National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park has ancient laurel forests and rich flora and fauna. Numerous hiking trails give breathtaking views and an opportunity to discover the island's unique ecosystem.

• Majona Natural Park: This mountainous park with deep ravines and coastal cliffs is less visited than Garajonay National Park but just as beautiful. It's great for solitude and adventure.

Historical monuments

• Torre del Conde: Dating back to the 15th century, this Gothic-style square tower in San Sebastián is the oldest military building in the Canary Islands.

• Church of the Assumption: San Sebastián's church is a beautiful example of traditional Canarian architecture, built in the 15th century.

Regional highlights

• Vallehermoso: Vallehermoso is the perfect place for a leisurely day excursion. This delightful village nestled in a lush valley is known for its pretty traditional houses and friendly locals.

• Hermigua: Hermigua, another picturesque hamlet in beautiful surroundings, is known for its banana plantations, natural swimming pools and El Cedro forest.

Activities for families in La Gomera

La Gomera is great for a laid-back family holiday, where every member can reconnect with nature and explore the surroundings via natural attractions.

• Beaches: Enjoy a day with the family at one of La Gomera's many black-sand beaches, such as Playa de Santiago or Playa de Valle Gran Rey. Both provide safe bathing and plenty of room to play beach games and build sandcastles.

• Outdoor recreation: Within Garajonay National Park there are many hiking trails that are suitable for families; the trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.

• Boat tours: For an unforgettable experience, take the kids on a boat tour from Valle Gran Rey or Playa de Santiago to see whales and dolphins in the wild.

• Educational attractions: The Archaeological Museum in San Sebastián provides children with an educational and fascinating insight into the island's history and archaeology.

Free things to do in La Gomera

It doesn't have to be expensive to holiday in La Gomera. There are lots of free things to do, so your trip can be both memorable and reasonably priced.

• Beach days: The rugged coastline of La Gomera is dotted with dramatic sandy coves that are free to access and are a wonderful place to spend the day just enjoying the sunshine.

• Miradores: Visit the island's viewpoints to truly appreciate how beautiful La Gomera is. They're all free to use and brilliant locations for taking photos.

• Natural therapies: La Gomera's beautiful natural landscapes attract outdoor wellness activities that don't require having to pay. Have a go at forest bathing in Garajonay National Park to feel the therapeutic powers of the island.

Nature and outdoor activities in La Gomera

• Hiking: Whether hiking through the laurel forests of Garajonay National Park or climbing to the island's highest point, Alto de Garajonay, La Gomera is a hiker's paradise with numerous trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks.

• Cycling: The island's scenic roads around Valle Gran Rey and the Garajonay National Park trails are popular with cyclists. Bike rentals are available.

• Water sports: For an exhilarating time spent in the ocean, participate in one of the water sports La Gomera has to offer. For activities such as diving, snorkelling, paddleboarding and surfing, local companies offer guided tours and equipment rentals.

• Birdwatching: La Gomera is a favoured location for birdwatching enthusiasts. A wide variety of native and migratory bird species can be spotted in the coastal regions and Garajonay National Park.

Best beaches in La Gomera

La Gomera's rugged coastline is dotted with stunning beaches, offering a mix of black sand shores, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs. Though many of the beaches are more secluded than on the other Canary Islands, they provide an idyllic setting for those looking to relax and connect with nature. Here are some of the best beaches to explore during your La Gomera holiday:

Playa de Santiago

Located on the southern coast of the island, Playa de Santiago is one of La Gomera's most popular beaches. Its black volcanic sand and calm waters make it ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is lined with small cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while taking in views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Playa de Valle Gran Rey

Situated in the west of the island, Playa de Valle Gran Rey offers a wide stretch of black sand and is surrounded by striking cliffs. It's a favourite among both locals and visitors for its relaxed atmosphere. The beach is perfect for families, and the gentle waves make it a great spot for swimming. Don't miss the beautiful sunset views from this beach, which are considered some of the best on the island.

Playa de La Calera

Also located in the Valle Gran Rey area, Playa de La Calera is a quieter option for those looking for a more peaceful setting. This beach is perfect for relaxing, taking leisurely walks, and soaking up the sun. Its calm, shallow waters make it a safe choice for families with children.

Playa de Alojera

For those looking for a more secluded beach, Playa de Alojera on the northwest coast offers a tranquil retreat. Surrounded by cliffs and palm trees, this hidden gem is less visited, giving you plenty of space to unwind. The beach is also known for its dramatic waves, making it popular with surfers.

Playa de Hermigua

Located in the northeast of the island, Playa de Hermigua is known for its natural beauty and stunning views of Mount Teide on neighbouring Tenerife. While the strong currents make it less suitable for swimming, it's a fantastic spot for a peaceful beach walk, fishing, or simply admiring the rugged coastline.

Playa del Inglés

One of the island's most iconic beaches, Playa del Inglés in Valle Gran Rey is a more secluded and untouched beach. Its natural, wild beauty is framed by dramatic cliffs, creating a truly unique setting. While the beach isn't ideal for swimming due to strong currents, it's perfect for those seeking a quiet, scenic spot for sunbathing or a picnic.

Whether you're looking for a beach with amenities or a secluded spot for some peace and quiet, La Gomera offers a variety of coastal options perfect for every traveller.

Local dishes in La Gomera

One of the many pleasures of La Gomera holidays is indulging in the local cuisine, which offers an array of dishes reflecting the Canary Islands' regional flavours.

Some typical dishes

• Potaje de Berros: Filling and tasty, this watercress soup is traditionally made with potatoes, corn and pork.

• Almogrote: Paired best with bread or potatoes, ingredients for this spicy cheese paste include cured goat's cheese, peppers, garlic and olive oil.

Tapas dishes

• Papas Arrugadas: Small potatoes, boiled in salted water until wrinkled and served with a spicy red or green mojo sauce, are a local staple.

• Gambas al Ajillo: This dish involves prawns sautéed in garlic and olive oil, with a touch of chilli for a bit of heat.

Meat dishes

• Conejo en Salmorejo: Rabbit marinated in a blend of spices and herbs, slow-cooked until tender, delivers a rich, deep flavour.

• Carne Fiesta: For a hearty meal, marinated pork chunks are fried and served with garlic, white wine and a variety of spices.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Cherne: This local white fish, grilled or baked, has a mild and delicious flavour; it's traditionally served with a side of papas arrugadas and mojo sauce.

• Calamares a la Romana: Fried squid rings are a popular dish, enjoyed as a starter or a tapa.

Sweets and desserts

• Bienmesabe: Often served with ice cream or layered in cakes, this rich, almond-based dessert is made with eggs, sugar and lemon.

• Leche Asada: This baked milk pudding with a caramelised top is similar to flan but with a firmer texture.

Local drinks

• Ron Miel: Perfect for sipping as a digestif, this local honey rum is smooth and sweet.

• Barraquito: A coffee drink layered with condensed milk, espresso and Licor 43, barraquito is a sweet and delicious way to enjoy your caffeine fix.