It’s not hard to see why so many people flock to the Canary Islands. Enjoying year-round sunny weather, diverse volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and a rich blend of Spanish and island culture, visitors can enjoy a wide array of activities, from hiking and stargazing to enjoying world-class wine, a lively Carnival, and a laid-back, welcoming lifestyle.
The Canary Islands welcomed nearly 18 million tourists in 2024, a record number that was two million people more than the previous year. This figure was driven by a substantial increase in international travelers, with the UK accounting for the largest portion of these foreign visitors.
Most tourists flock to destinations such as Tenerife and Lanzarote, however one island has been praised as an excellent alternative.
La Gomera stands as the third smallest isle in the Canaries yet provides an arguably more affordable and tranquil choice than the most popular island, Tenerife.
The island boasts renowned black sandy coastlines, dramatic, craggy volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches and balmy temperatures. In October, the mercury falls to 26C, making it perfect for an escape from the cold British weather.
It also houses San Sebastian, acclaimed as one of Spain’s most overlooked towns, with travel platform Cosa Crusies describing the town as a destination where “time seems to have stopped a hundred years ago”.
Constructed upon volcanic stone, the settlement maintains links to renowned explorer Christopher Columbus, with numerous monuments honouring him. Amongst these stands Columbus’ House, where the explorer conducted “amorous” meetings.
A stunning Catholic chapel called Church of the Assumption provides a romantic and stunning backdrop due to quaint stone archways and a bell tower, while a compact stone watchtower — one of the few medieval fortifications which subsists in the Canary Islands — called Torre del Conde is a ‘must visit’.
For those looking for a break from the well-trodden Canary Island destinations, La Gomera provides tranquility and the opportunity to take part in various immersive activities, from hiking to diving.
Popular coastal town Valle Gren Rey is a perfect place to visit the black sand beaches, with stunning canyons surrounding the coastline and a popular diving spot off the beach of Hautacuperche.
Hiking fans will be delighted to visit Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO-listed prehistoric forest that’s dramatically misty and humid. The park boasts over 3,900 of the best-preserved Laurel forests in the Canary Islands as well as many subtropical plant species.
Visitors may also relish the chance to learn about the fascinating Silbo Gomero, a whistled language native to the island. Allowing for communication over long distances, particularly across the island’s mountainous terrain, the language is a unique way of communicating where spoken Spanish is converted into whistled sounds.
Although La Gomera has an airport, it is only for flights between the islands. Flights or a ferry to La Gomera are available from Tenerife, with the ferry providing a pleasant route in just under an hour.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
