Trek La Gomera Over the Tops

1 | Arrival in San Sebastián
Upon landing at Tenerife Airport, you’ll be transferred to the port of Los Cristianos. From there, a ferry takes you across the Atlantic to La Gomera. The charming town of San Sebastián marks the starting point of your trekking adventure.

2 | From Degollada to Playa de Santiago – A Descent to Sun and Sea
Today’s stage is a stunning one: you’ll descend from the mountainous interior to the sun-drenched southern coast of La Gomera. The trail from Degollada to Playa de Santiago winds down through a lush valley, passing palm trees and traditional terraced farmland. As you get closer to the coast, the air becomes warmer, drier, and filled with sunlight.
Playa de Santiago is a relaxed coastal village where you can kick off your hiking shoes, stretch out on the black lava beach, or grab a bite at a seaside terrace while gazing out over the Atlantic.

🌊 But the day isn’t over yet – a special treat awaits: From Santiago, you’ll board a boat for a scenic cruise back to San Sebastián. As you sail along the southern coast of La Gomera, keep your eyes peeled – you might just spot dolphins or even whales swimming alongside the boat.

Distance: 14.5 km
Elevation: +230 m / –1130 m

3 | A Special Trek Through Valleys and Peaks
The hike from Degollada de Peraza to Chipude showcases La Gomera’s natural beauty in full glory. Starting at Degollada de Peraza, you follow the trail towards Alto de Garajonay, passing lush green valleys along the way. The path continues to Chipude, offering breathtaking views over the island’s rugged mountains.

You might pass small hamlets and traditional irrigation channels called “acequias”, remnants of La Gomera’s agricultural past. After several hours, you arrive in the peaceful village of Chipude, tucked away in a scenic mountain valley.

Distance: 13.5 km
Elevation: +670 m / –500 m

4 | A Day Full of Adventure
This beautiful circular walk starts in the quiet mountain village of Chipude. From here, you explore the highlands of La Gomera – where time stands still and nature reigns supreme.
Your first stop is El Cercado, known for its traditional pottery. You can explore the village or take a short break at a local eatery. The route then continues towards the Presa de la Cabezita, a small reservoir nestled among pine trees. From here, you climb gradually into the heart of Laguna Grande, a clearing in the mystical laurel forest of Garajonay National Park.
Here you’ll find a family-friendly picnic area and a restaurant, perfect for a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature. After your break, continue toward Mirador de Cherelepín, where sweeping views await – on clear days, you can even spot Tenerife. The route loops back through the quieter paths of Laguna Alto, ending in Chipude.

Distance: 12 km
Elevation: +400 m / –380 m

5 | From Highland to Valley
The walk from Chipude to Vallehermoso is one of the most scenic trails on La Gomera. Covering around 12 km in 4 to 5 hours, this route is full of contrasts and dramatic changes in landscape.
You start by entering the Garajonay National Park, a lush laurel forest shrouded in mist and ancient silence. The forest gradually gives way to a sunlit valley filled with palm trees, fruit orchards, and terraced farmland. One of the highlights along the way is Roque Cano, a towering volcanic rock that rises dramatically from the earth.
As the path descends, panoramic views open up of the surrounding hills, the Vallehermoso valley, and the shimmering ocean in the distance. The climate becomes milder as you approach sea level, and the landscape turns almost tropical.
The walk ends in Vallehermoso, where you can treat yourself to a well-earned local meal or drink on a sunny terrace.

Distance: 14 km
Elevation: +240 m / –1140 m

6 | Through the Red Earth
The walk from Vallehermoso to Agulo is one of the most colorful and captivating hikes on La Gomera. The trail leads from the lush northern valleys through stark, red-toned landscapes to the picturesque coastal village of Agulo.
You start on an old shepherd’s path that gradually climbs out of the valley. As you gain elevation, the surroundings shift to iron-rich volcanic soil in vivid shades of red and orange, contrasting sharply with the green foliage. You’ll walk among cacti, agaves, and shrubs, with ever-expanding views across the island.
The descent into Agulo is just as scenic: the town appears like a green jewel among banana plantations and terraced hillsides. Once in Agulo, it’s time to relax – sip a glass of local wine, enjoy some fresh fish, and soak in the Atlantic views.

You’ll spend two nights here – plenty of time to explore and unwind.

Distance: 14 km
Elevation: +770 m / –760 m

7 | Mirador de Abrante – Floating Above La Gomera
High above the cliffs near Agulo, the Mirador de Abrante offers one of the most exhilarating views on the island. This daring architectural feat literally juts out over the cliff edge, with a glass walkway that’s not for the faint of heart – but the views are well worth it.
From here, you can see the colorful rooftops of Agulo far below, and on clear days, the majestic Teide volcano on Tenerife in the distance. You’ll also get a great view of Roque Agando, one of La Gomera’s most iconic volcanic formations.
The viewpoint also houses a restaurant, where you can enjoy local specialties like goat cheese, mojo rojo, or grilled fish – all while seemingly suspended in the air.
Dare to walk the glass floor? The reward: a thrilling experience and an unforgettable view.

Distance: 6 km
Elevation: +490 m / –500 m

8 | Departure
From Agulo, you’ll be transferred back to San Sebastián to catch your ferry to Tenerife. Upon arrival, a transfer will take you to the airport for your flight home – filled with memories of wild landscapes, red earth, and starry ocean skies.