Published on
January 3, 2026
La Gomera in Spain stands out as the perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and authentic experience in the Canary Islands. Unlike its bustling neighbors, La Gomera offers lush landscapes, tranquil towns, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those wanting to escape crowded resorts. Its unique charm and unspoiled beauty provide a refreshing alternative to the commercialized islands, ensuring a serene and enriching holiday.
The Canary Islands are a prime destination for many travelers, especially Brits seeking a winter escape under the sun. Yet, amidst the crowded hotspots, there’s a lesser-known gem that offers a more tranquil retreat: La Gomera.
Despite being one of the most sought-after locations for tourists, the Canary Islands have recently found themselves on the “No List” for 2026 by Fodor’s Travel. This list highlights destinations that are struggling with the pressures of tourism, where the influx of visitors is proving unsustainable for the local communities and environment. Fodor’s Travel notes that while tourism is crucial for the islands’ economy, it can also be a burden for residents, many of whom rarely benefit from the financial windfall tourism brings.
Among the islands, La Gomera stands out as a quieter alternative, drawing fewer than one percent of the visitors that flock to Tenerife, its bustling neighbor. This stark difference in tourism numbers offers a sense of peace and authenticity that many other destinations in the Canary Islands can no longer provide.
La Gomera is often overlooked by tourists who are drawn to the more commercialized Tenerife. However, those who seek a more authentic experience in a serene setting find La Gomera to be a breath of fresh air. The island’s volcanic landscape is both lush and green, providing an environment that is rich in natural beauty, with 21°C temperatures in January—a perfect escape from the chill of the UK.
A recent travel feature highlighted the charm and unique character of La Gomera, suggesting that this tranquil island offers a refreshing alternative to the more crowded Tenerife. It was noted that La Gomera possesses “a unique character all of its own” along with some delightful surprises that set it apart from the bustling resorts of its neighboring islands.
After spending a week on the island, the relaxed and laid-back atmosphere of La Gomera left a lasting impression. The island’s distinctive, authentic vibe stood in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of tourist-heavy resorts. Its lush, green interior was a refreshing change from the busy, commercialized areas of larger islands, with the peace and quiet permeating the entire town. Walking through one of the sun-soaked towns, it was strikingly evident how different La Gomera felt compared to the crowded, tourist-filled locales on other islands.
For those considering La Gomera as a holiday destination, having a car is essential. The island’s winding roads offer some of the most breathtaking views, and a car gives travelers the freedom to explore at their own pace. With a vehicle, visitors can discover the charming fishing village of Playa de Santiago, where they can enjoy mild temperatures, water sports, and savor local seafood at its best. Another must-see is Alto de Garajonay, the highest peak on the island, situated within Garajonay National Park, which offers incredible hiking opportunities through rich, dense forests.
The capital, San Sebastián, also deserves attention for being one of Spain’s most underrated towns. With its historic charm and laid-back ambiance, it offers a refreshing change from the bustling tourism hubs. La Gomera, in essence, is perfect for those seeking a quiet, nature-filled retreat far from the crowded beaches and resorts typical of the Canary Islands.
For travelers who long for a change of pace, La Gomera provides the ideal getaway. It’s an oasis for those tired of the typical tourist experience. Instead of large crowds and commercialized attractions, visitors to La Gomera are welcomed by stunning landscapes, quiet towns, and a much-needed break from the tourism-driven chaos found elsewhere in the Canary Islands. La Gomera offers the perfect balance for those seeking peace, authenticity, and natural beauty—truly a hidden gem in the Canary Islands.
