La Gomera
La Gomera is one of the seven islands of volcanic origin that compose the Canarian Archipelago, a group of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean.
It is a round island and is characterised by its singular geographical features: it presents valleys and ravines and many groves.
La Gomera is about twelve million years old and it is the only island of the archipelago with no current volcanic activity. It has a surface area of 370 square kilometres. Its highest point is the Garajonay at an altitude of 1,487 metres.
Nowadays, the island is divided in 6 municipalities: Valle Gran Rey, Vallehermoso, Alajeró, San Sebastián de La Gomera, Agulo y Hermigua; the population reaches 23,000 inhabitants.
The climate does not vary much on this island, therefore you can enjoy spring-like weather all year round. You will feel a slight change between the coastal areas which are quite warm and the higher lands where the air is cooler.
Food-wise, you cannot miss the “Potaje de Berros” (watercress soup), “Miel de Palma” (palm honey) and “Almogrote” (a soft paste made with hard cheese, peppers, garlic and other ingredients) which are typical from La Gomera.
The main income of the island has always been based on agriculture but these last few years tourism is also boosting the insular economy.
PARQUE NACIONAL DE GARAJONAY
La Gomera boasts of the National Park of Garajonay; it was declared as such in 1981 and later classified as a World Heritage Site by Unesco. A precious remnant of the terciary period, the laurel forest known as laurisilva, is protected within this park.
This subtropical vegetation is composed of a great variety of trees which maintains its foliage throughout the year thanks to high humidity of the place and mild temperatures.
In the Garajonay park, you can find faya (Myrica faya), heather, laurels, fern, etc. The area is embedded in the phenomenon known as sea of clouds so the condensation of steam on the tree leaves (horizontal rain) considerably increases the amount of water on these grounds. The many trails that cross the park makes it easy to walk around.
All in all, La Gomera offers alternative tourism with the possibility to go whale watching on a boat, to be in direct contact with nature by taking the different trails and paths of the island, to relax on its black sandy beaches, to enjoy its culture and traditions, etc.
La Gomera is a glimpse of paradise you should treat yourself to at least once in a lifetime…
