Blog home / Walking the Canaries: Tenerife, La Palma, and La Gomera

The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, are renowned for their diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures.

Among these islands, Tenerife, La Palma, and La Gomera stand out as must-visit destinations, each offering its own unique charm and unforgettable walking holidays.

Tenerife: A Symphony of City and Nature

From the moment you glimpse Mt. Teide, Spain's highest peak, through your plane window, you’ll sense the allure of Tenerife. This island seamlessly blends its cosmopolitan vibe with breathtaking natural beauty.

In its bustling cities, you'll encounter a rich tapestry of Spanish, South American, and African influences, reflected in its vibrant culture, cuisine, and architecture.
But Tenerife isn’t just about city life. The island boasts stunning natural attractions like the Anaga Massif, a verdant haven where you can explore ancient laurisilva forests—rare relics of a bygone era.

Whether you're hiking through lush landscapes or taking in the panoramic views from a cable car ride up Mt. Teide, Tenerife promises a wealth of experiences that will leave you in awe.

How do I get to Tenerife?

Start your adventure in Tenerife, the largest and most cosmopolitan of the Canary Islands. With its well-connected international airport in Santa Cruz and a range of domestic flights and ferry services, Tenerife serves as a convenient gateway to the other islands.

From here, you can easily embark on your island-hopping journey.

Use the cable car roundtrip up Mount Teide

Punta Canarios, overlooking Tenerife and Mt. Teide | <i>John Millen</i>

Good Morning on Mt Teide | <i>John Millen</i>

La Palma: A Hidden Gem of Timeless Beauty

Often referred to as "La Isla Bonita" (the Beautiful Island), La Palma is a haven for those seeking a more tranquil escape.

This island has been cherished by explorers and pirates alike, and its unspoiled landscapes offer a window into a different era.

La Palma’s lush terrain, with its iconic black sand beaches and dramatic volcanic craters, provides a striking contrast to its vibrant green forests.

A visit to La Palma is incomplete without witnessing its volcanic wonders. The island’s volcanic activity is concentrated in the Cumbre Vieja area, but don't miss the opportunity to see the newest addition to its volcanic landscape, Cabeza de Vaca, which emerged in 2021.

The island’s preserved laurel forests, such as those in Cubo de la Galga, are perfect for nature enthusiasts and offer serene hiking opportunities.

How do I get to La Palma?

The island’s well-served airport makes it easy to transition from the bustling energy of Tenerife to the serene landscapes of La Palma.

Once you arrive, you'll find that the island’s relatively compact size makes it simple to explore its volcanic craters, lush forests, and picturesque beaches.

La Gomera: A Trailblazer’s Paradise

La Gomera, with its rugged terrain and plunging ravines, is a paradise for adventurers and hikers. The island’s challenging landscapes mean that driving can be tricky, but this only adds to its allure.

With over 650 kilometres of trails crisscrossing its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, La Gomera is a haven for those who love to explore on foot.

The island’s rich cultural heritage is equally fascinating. One of its most unique aspects is 'Silbo Gomero,' an ancient whistled language used by locals to communicate across the island’s deep valleys. This intriguing tradition, along with the island’s stunning natural beauty and excellent year-round weather, makes La Gomera a truly distinctive destination.

How do I get to La Gomera?

La Gomera is just a short ferry ride away from Tenerife or La Palma. Despite its rugged terrain and dramatic landscapes, La Gomera is well-connected with regular ferry services, ensuring that getting here is as straightforward as the other islands.

Once on La Gomera, you can immerse yourself in its hiking trails and unique cultural heritage with ease.

A walker on the trail below Imada, La Gomera | <i>John Millen</i>

Traditional Gomeran dancers | <i>John Millen</i>

Colourful pine woods above La Laja | <i>John Millen</i>

Embrace the Canary Islands

The efficient transport links between these islands mean that you can seamlessly combine visits to Tenerife, La Palma, and La Gomera in one trip.

This allows you to experience the full range of what the Canary Islands have to offer, from vibrant city life and volcanic wonders to tranquil natural landscapes and rich cultural traditions.

Whether you're embarking on a multi-island walking holiday or focusing on one island at a time, the Canary Islands’ excellent connectivity ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey. Pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready to explore these stunning islands with ease - take a look at all our Canary Island Walking holidays, or for something more bespoke, get in contact with our team today.