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La Gomera may not be as large as most of the other Canary Islands, but it's still a great destination for all kinds of holidays - especially walking breaks. The landscape of the so-called Magical Island varies from mountains and deep ravines to black sand beaches and atmospheric forests, ensuring every hike you go on is different to the last. One popular route to take is a circular walk from Vallehermoso, which is situated in an agricultural region with the same name. You'll hike up a spectacular ravine filled with aromatic plants and flowers towards Santa Clara, where you can enjoy a picnic. Next, you'll loop back towards Vallehermoso, travelling downhill all the way. This section of the walk will put you in a prime position to take in amazing views of Roque Cano, a large, almost egg-shaped rock that rises up from the surrounding hills in awe-inspiring fashion. Another ravine you'll explore is Santiago Ravine, which you can trek to from Las Toscas. The walk will see you pass by dozens of species of plants and flowers, many of which are native to La Gomera. You'll then make a short climb up the ravine before exploring the village of El Cabezo and relaxing on the beach at Playa de Santiago. You'll have some time to swim in the sea before it's time to head back to your starting point. One other popular area to explore on foot is Garajonay National Park. This diverse site is best known for Garajonay Mountain, which you can ascend on foot. The journey will see you pass through forests thick with laurels and enjoy unparalleled views of the surrounding Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife, from the summit. After this, you will head back down the mountain and onwards to Hermigua, a charming town that harbours an old church and a convent dating back to the 16th century, before going back to your hotel for a well-earned rest. Another walk worthy of note is an ascent to the oldest village on La Gomera. The hike begins with a journey past numerous pine and cedar trees in the direction of the tiny settlement of Manantiales, where you may be able to feast on goats' cheese and locally-grown fruit. Then you'll head through a valley and make a climb up to Chipude, which has been inhabited since long before the Spanish conquered the island. The village is perched above a ravine, around 1,000 m up, making for some amazing views. You'll have some time to have a look around Chipude before you travel on to the pottery town of Cercado, which is home to several workshops specialising in the production of all kinds of ceramics using traditional methods. The final trek you'll be able to go on during your Spanish walking break is a particularly scenic one. You set off from Las Hayas, a mountain village, and head downhill towards Arure and Ermita del Santo. You'll enjoy an unforgettable picnic lunch at the latter, from where you will have a great view of the ravine. Then you'll tackle a rather challenging ridge walk towards your final destination, Valle Gran Rey, passing eerie formations of volcanic rock and a number of palm groves along the way. Valle Gran Rey is home to a wide, long beach lined with banana trees - the perfect endpoint for your holiday. The Canary Islands are ideal for a Spanish walking break, particularly if you head to La Gomera. Find active getaways here and elsewhere in Spain with Headwater Holidays.
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