Garajonay National Park: La Gomera’s Ancient Forest Escape
People travel to Garajonay, known locally as Parque Nacional de Garajonay, to walk through a forest that time forgot. Around 450,000 to almost a million visitors arrive here each year, depending on the season, drawn by mist-covered laurel woodland found almost nowhere else on earth. Sitting at the heart of La Gomera in the Canary Islands, this UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves ancient forests that once covered southern Europe millions of years ago. Whether you love hiking, folklore or simply breathing fresh forest air, Garajonay feels like stepping into another world.
What to see and do
Firstly, head to the Juego de Bolas Visitor Centre near Agulo. It’s the perfect starting point, with exhibits explaining the park’s unique laurel forest and an on-site museum showing traditional Gomeran life.
Next, make your way to Laguna Grande, a peaceful clearing surrounded by towering laurel trees. It’s a popular picnic spot, and several waymarked trails begin right here, making it easy to head off exploring afterwards.
For sweeping views, don’t miss Roque de Agando, a dramatic volcanic plug that rises straight out of the forest canopy. Meanwhile, keen hikers should tackle the trail to Alto de Garajonay, the island’s highest point at 1,487 metres. On a clear day, you can see across to Tenerife’s Mount Teide from the summit.
Afterwards, explore Bosque del Cedro, one of the park’s oldest and most atmospheric stretches of forest. Twisted, moss-covered trees and dangling ferns create an almost prehistoric scene, especially when the mist rolls in.
Finally, learn about the island’s tragic legend at the rock formations linked to Gara and Jonay, star-crossed lovers said to have inspired the park’s name. It’s a lovely story to keep in mind as you wander beneath the ancient canopy.
Where to stay
Garajonay rewards a longer stay, especially since the winding mountain roads and many trails take more than a single day to enjoy properly. Base yourself in San Sebastián de La Gomera if you’d like easy ferry access and a good choice of restaurants. Stay near the harbour for the shortest walk to shops and evening tapas bars.
Alternatively, choose Valle Gran Rey on the island’s western coast for dramatic cliffs and black-sand beaches once you’ve finished exploring the forest. Pick accommodation in La Playa, the area closest to the beachfront, for stunning sunset views. For a quieter option, the village of Hermigua offers terraced banana plantations and a slower pace, ideal for unwinding after a day of hiking. Book Accommodation.
How to get to La Gomera
Since La Gomera has no direct international flights, most visitors fly into Tenerife South Airport first. From there, it’s a short taxi or bus ride to the port of Los Cristianos.
Next, take the ferry across to San Sebastián de La Gomera, the island’s capital and main gateway to the park. Crossings run several times daily and take around 50 minutes. Check connections.
Once you’re on the island, hiring a car makes exploring Garajonay’s winding mountain roads far easier. Hire a Car.
From San Sebastián, driving to the park takes around 30 minutes along the GM-1 and GM-2 roads. Get directions to La Gomera.
Final thoughts
Garajonay offers a rare glimpse into an ancient world, wrapped in mist and myth. Bring sturdy boots, plan a few unhurried days, and let this magical forest work its quiet charm on you.