> El Balcón de Santa Ana, Playa de Santiago, La Gomera
> Things to do
El Balcón de Santa Ana
Playa de Santiago, La Gomera
Because the island's only around 15 miles in diameter, you can be sure that all attractions are near by! We offer a number of excursions, including walking tours and coach trips.
We can arrange scuba diving for both the experienced and novices alike. Bicycles are also available for hire at the village of Playa Santiago, and there is a sailing school at San Sebastián.
There is spectacular walking to be found all over La Gomera, and the central Parque Nacional de Garajonay is no exception. Protected since 1982, it achieved UNESCO recognition in 1986.
It's home to one of the world's largest continuous areas of laurel forest (a habitat that has almost disappeared from Southern Europe and North Africa). The tranquil 3,984-hectare park also contains a multitude of other plant life, freshwater springs and stunning rock formations.
The bright lights of San Sebastián
Take a boat trip to San Sebastián, the port town and capital that Christopher Columbus visited in 1492 before setting out on the voyage for which he is best known. (A notice at the local well records how the explorer drew its water to 'baptise America'.)
The Museo Casa Colón charts the last five centuries of the Canary Islands and their relationship with America. Visitors can learn about this rich history through maps, the permanent exhibition, a library and a centre for special studies.
San Sebastián itself is quiet, friendly and well kept. With a population of 7,000 or so, it is the island's largest municipality. Its handful of shops, restaurants and bars are all within easy walking distance, making it an ideal destination for a light lunch, a reviving glass of wine and people watching in the central square.
Other attractions include La Galería de Arte Luna, located in a restored 17th-century building in the old town, the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, and the Torre del Conde. The Castilian-style tower was built in 1447 as part of the town's defences and is now a museum.
Whale watching and exploring the island's past
On clear days, Valle Gran Rey to the west offers a panoramic view of the neighbouring island of El Hierro. As well as its popular beaches, shops and restaurants, the region holds many reminders of La Gomera's fascinating past. These include the San Nicolás de Tolentino and La Adoración de los Reyes hermitages, which date back to the early 16th century.
For something completely different, head for the sea and some whale watching. OCEANO, based in Valle Gran Rey, provides tours to spot whales and dolphins in a way that respects the animals and their environment.
Or head to Mirador de Abrante is a glass bay window overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with exceptional views of Agulo and Mount Teide in Tenerife.
Hidden in Agulo, it is an architectural masterpiece, a projection of glass, designed by the architect José Luis Bermejo, 625 metres above the sea level. It offers a great view of the town of Agulo and the island of Tenerife, a spectacle for the senses.
El Mirador de Abrante has a tourist information service and a restaurant. Enjoy the magnificent views while tasting local tapas and creative international cuisine with Canarian flavour at the Gastrobar - Abrante.
If you are staying with us, it is a must not to be missed, just 50 minutes drive to the best views of Agulo and Tenerife.
Open every day from 11 to 19 hours.