The best mountain hikes in Parc National De Garajonay

Small rural hermitage located in one of the high and quiet areas of La Gomera, surrounded by mountains, terraces, and narrow roads frequented by cyclists. Although simple, it has something very authentic: it seems more like a resting point lost on the island than a tourist spot. San Isidro is the patron saint of farmers, and that fits perfectly with the environment: damp earth, cultivated terraces, and a life tied to the Gomera countryside for generations. The curious thing about these hermitages in La Gomera is that many function almost as route references. For years they were meeting points, rest stops, and orientation points for people crossing the island on foot or with animals long before modern roads existed. Cycling through here has that air of the "old Gomera" that still survives in the highlands.

El Roque de Agando is probably the most iconic and photographed rock formation on La Gomera. It is a huge volcanic plug formed by very resistant rock that was exposed after millions of years of erosion. While the rest of the volcanic terrain gradually disappeared, this gigantic needle remained standing, dominating the entire landscape in the center of the island. It rises to an altitude of about 1,250 meters and is part of a group of volcanic rocks visible from much of Garajonay. Its vertical and isolated silhouette, especially when it appears shrouded in mist or illuminated by the low sun, gives it an almost unreal appearance. The road that passes by the roque is considered one of the most spectacular on La Gomera and is a classic spot to stop and contemplate the landscape. For the ancient inhabitants of La Gomera, it also had symbolic and territorial importance, and even today it remains one of the island's great natural emblems. The contrast between the dark rock, the green ravines, and the low clouds creates one of the most recognizable images of the Canary Islands.

Laguna Grande is probably one of the best starting points on all of La Gomera to explore the upper part of the island by bike. Many people arrive here by van or car precisely to start their routes from this point and avoid some of the toughest climbs from the coast. From the recreational area, you can easily link up with routes towards San Sebastián, Valle Gran Rey, Alajeró, or the entire central ridge across the humid forest. The advantage is enormous: you start already at over 1,200 meters altitude, within the laurisilva, surrounded by practically traffic-free tracks and roads. This allows you to enjoy the long, scenic descents and high mountain routes much more without draining all the battery or your legs on endless ascents from sea level. Of course, the climate here changes radically compared to the coast. Fog is very common almost all year round and humidity is constantly present, even when it's sunny down below. It is essential to bring a good rain jacket, a serious windbreaker, and some light thermal clothing, because the feeling of cold increases considerably when you enter the more humid areas of the forest. It is also advisable to bring lights or reflective elements if you are going to ride for many hours in fog and shade. For e-bike tours, Laguna Grande is simply a spectacular base.

The Laguna Grande Recreational Area is one of the most important and visited points in the interior of La Gomera. It is located in the high zone of the island, within the Garajonay National Park, at an altitude of over 1,200 meters and surrounded by the famous laurisilva forest, considered a UNESCO World Heritage site. More than just a picnic area, Laguna Grande functions as a meeting point for hikers, cyclists, and visitors exploring the island's humid heart. Several well-known routes begin here, and it is also one of the best places to stop to rest, eat, or simply contemplate the forest amidst the fog. The climatic difference compared to the coast is enormous: while it can be hot and sunny below, here it is common to find humidity, cold, fine rain, and fog even in summer. The place also has a significant symbolic and popular charge in La Gomera. There are ancient legends related to witches and nocturnal gatherings in the central clearing of the forest, stories that are still part of the local imagination and fit perfectly with the mysterious atmosphere of the place when the fog rolls in among the trees. Today, it is one of the great nerve centers of Garajonay and a practically essential stop to understand the landscape, climate, and the more humid and green personality of La Gomera.

In the heart of the Garajonay National Park, this recreational area is one of the most magical corners of La Gomera. Surrounded by laurel forest, mist, and moss-covered trees, it feels like a scene frozen in time. Ideal for taking a break on the route, having a snack, or simply listening to the silence of the forest as the light shifts through the mist. A classic for cyclists and hikers seeking the island's most humid, green, and mysterious side.

quiet routes on comfortable paths 2 on the "roof" of La Gomera - never difficult, rather relaxing, as not much concentration needs to be placed on the trail condition - also suitable for children!

anyone looking for quite comfortable and joint-friendly paths - amidst all the steep trails of La Gomera - will find them here - and "incidentally" there is also the island's "roof"... an area for relaxation...

Definitely not suitable for mountain biking!