Sunday, 14 January 2024

Discovering the Enchanting Charm of LA GOMERA

Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, the Canary Islands boast a stunning array of landscapes and hidden treasures waiting to be explored. Among these jewels, the island of La Gomera stands out for its rugged beauty, lush landscapes, and unique culture. At Christmas, I had the pleasure of immersing myself in the allure of this captivating island, staying at the exquisite Jardín Tecina resort in the south and embarking on a thrilling day trip in a jeep around La Gomera.

San Sebastian de La Gomera and our hotel: the Jardín Tecina - A Haven of Tranquility: My adventure began by flying to the nearby island of Tenerife. From there, you can take a 40-minute ferry across to the island of La Gomera. There is a small airport on the island and you can fly here from Tenerife North or the island of Gran Canaria. Once off the ferry, you arrive to the capital "San Sebastian de La Gomera" which exudes a charming blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty. This picturesque town, with its harbour, colorful buildings and cobbled streets, invites visitors to explore its rich maritime heritage and immerse themselves in the relaxed atmosphere of island life. The town has a very authentic charm and so this compact capital is an ideal starting point for exploring La Gomera, providing a delightful mix of history, culture, and seaside tranquility. We didn't actually stay here and instead, headed off in a taxi to the south of the island: to luxurious Jardín Tecina resort in " Playa Santiago". This hidden oasis is perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Surrounded by lush gardens, this tropical paradise offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional Canarian architecture. The resort's commitment to sustainability and preserving the island's natural beauty was evident in every detail.


From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by breathtaking views of the ocean and the neighboring island of Tenerife. Exploring the island from Jardín Tecina was a treat in itself with all its flowers and trees, amazing views and large golf course. We spent a few days, including Christmas day relaxing by the pool which was such a treat to have in winter time! LOOK at these morning sunset views from our room!



Our trip to Garajonay National Park

On Boxing day, the weather was a little off so we walked around Playa Santiago and did a local tour by a german man who has lived on the island for many years. The day after, we took a taxi to the Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the same taxi driver who took us from the port. The park boasts ancient laurel forests, mist-shrouded hiking trails, and breathtaking viewpoints. Standing at La Degollada de Peraza, I marveled at the panoramic views, a testament to the island's natural beauty and ecological significance. For lunch, I tried the typical La Gomeran soup: "Potaje de Berros" made of watercress which is served with "Gofio" - a kind of grain that some Canarians eat with bananas. I also had the famous Canarian potatoes "Papas Arrugadas" with the famous mojo red and green sauces. It was delicious! Before our hike through the forest and our lunch, the driver showed us different viewpoints along the way and some local hotspots around the park. He even invited us to a hot drink! He was so kind to go the extra mile, which shows the hospitality of the La Gomeran people.


Jeep Adventure Across La Gomera. To truly appreciate the island's diverse landscapes, I opted for a jeep tour that promised an off-road exploration of La Gomera's hidden gems. It was funny because I selected an English tour but also stated I did not mind if it was Spanish, as I speak Spanish too. Well... I was on a german tour and I don't speak German. So the guy translated into Spanish for me!

I saw the rugged terrain and winding roads revealed the island's dramatic scenery, from dense laurel forests to towering cliffs and secluded valleys.The tour also took me through charming villages like Agulo and Hermigua, where I experienced the authentic Canarian way of life. The centre of the island is a microclimate which holds a lot of moisture. I was on the jeep tour with 12 degrees and clouds...my mum was sunbathing by the pool with 26 degrees and sunshine!


In my week in La Gomera, I basically visited all the main points on the island albeit a visit to Valle Gran Rey, a picturesque valley with black sand beaches and vibrant communities. I still need to go there so I will do that when I return! Overall, La Gomera, with its enchanting landscapes and cultural richness, left an indelible mark on my heart. From the luxurious haven of Jardín Tecina to the exhilarating jeep adventure around the island, every moment was a celebration of La Gomera's unique charm. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, La Gomera offers an unparalleled experience that beckons travelers to uncover its hidden wonders!!

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