La Gomera, "Isla Mágica" the magical island

Travel Talk with Ed Finn

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Saturday, 31 January 2026 - 10 minutes

Today on Travel Talk Ed takes us to a little-known jewel of the Canaries – La Gomera.  Ed uncovers why this green, mountainous island just off Tenerife feels like its own world: wild landscapes, UNESCO heritage misty laurel forests, ancient whistling language and dramatic Atlantic coastlines.  The third-smallest of the Canary Islands, La Gomera is an understated land rich in verdant natural beauty. Perfect for those dreaming of a more laid-back beach break or hiking holiday, many of the best places to stay on La Gomera promise beautiful views of the ancient forests and gorges which frame the island’s volcanic heart — as well as some striking ocean panoramas.   Ed stayed at Hotel Jardín Tecina, a cliff-top classic in Playa de Santiago with its own golf course, multiple pools, spa and sports activities — perfect for unwinding or even playing a round of golf with ocean views. Other wonderful options include the sea-facing charm of Parador de La Gomera in San Sebastián, ideal for exploring local culture and beaches, or the tranquil luxury of Bancal Hotel & Spa, surrounded by native vegetation with panoramic views. Whether it’s hiking Garajonay, learning Silbo Gomero, or simply soaking up the quiet, La Gomera proves there’s more to the Canaries than meets the eye. 

Where to Stay

For accommodation, La Gomera has a wonderfully relaxed and scenic range of places to stay that suit nature lovers, walkers and anyone after peace and quality. Ed has stayed twice at the Hotel Jardín Tecina (pictured above) perched above Playa de Santiago with stunning sea views, beautifully landscaped gardens and its own 18-hole golf course, making it perfect for combining exploration with a few rounds against an Atlantic backdrop. Other excellent choices include the Parador de La Gomera in San Sebastián — a stylish, centrally located hotel with easy access to the town’s historic quarter and nearby beaches — and the boutique charm of Bancal Hotel & Spa, set amid lush vegetation with panoramic island views. If you’re keen on golf, Jardín Tecina remains the standout option on the island, but plenty of lovely walking, pools, spa facilities and restaurants at these hotels mean there’s great comfort and character wherever you choose to stay.

Getting there

Reaching La Gomera is easy and very straightforward. There are regular flights from Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Belfast to Tenerife and Gran Canaria with Aer Lingus and Ryanair.  From there, Binter operates short inter-island flights from both Tenerife and Gran Canaria to La Gomera, taking around 30 minutes.  Alternatively, the Fred. Olsen Express ferry from Tenerife is a lovely way to travel — just under an hour from Los Cristianos to San Sebastián de La Gomera, with the option to bring a car or travel as a foot passenger. It feels relaxed, scenic and very much part of the holiday experience.

Silbo Gomero - The Whistling language

La Gomera is famous for Silbo Gomero, one of the most extraordinary forms of communication in the world. This unique whistling language was developed centuries ago so people could communicate across the island’s deep ravines and valleys, where voices simply wouldn’t carry. Using whistles that mimic the rhythm and pitch of spoken Spanish, messages can travel up to three kilometres in the open air.  What makes Silbo Gomero even more remarkable is that it’s still alive today. It’s taught in schools across La Gomera, recognised by UNESCO as an important part of world cultural heritage, and occasionally demonstrated in villages and restaurants. It’s a perfect example of how the island’s culture evolved in harmony with its dramatic landscape — practical, ingenious, and deeply rooted in local life.

Video Courtesy of DW Euromaxx

For packages to La Gomera contact your Travel Agent - and there's lots of great info on the Tour Spain Website - La Gomera 

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