Sometimes, to feel like you’ve escaped from everything, you don’t need to go far. Right in the heart of La Gomera, where the clouds drift low enough to brush the treetops and the air smells like damp earth, lies Garajonay National Park – a forest that feels like another world, but is very much real. And it is waiting for you.

A living ecosystem from the distant past

Garajonay is more than just a park. It’s a journey back in time to the Tertiary period, when laurel forests —evergreen, misty and lush— covered much of Europe and North Africa. Today, these ancient forests survive in only a few places on Earth, and Garajonay is by far their finest example.

Thanks to the northeast trade winds and a phenomenon known as “horizontal rain” —where moisture in the mist is absorbed directly by the forest— a unique microclimate thrives here. The result? A green sanctuary where the air itself seems alive. Shiny laurel-like leaves, giant ferns, moss-covered trunks, and a thousand shades of green surround you at every turn.

Misty trails and timeless legends

Walking through Garajonay feels like stepping into a fairytale. Over 600 kilometres of trails link up viewpoints, streams, picnic areas and magical spots like El Cedro forest, one of the most ancient and untouched corners of the park. The sound of flowing water and the density of the canopy create an atmosphere that’s both grounding and emotional.

In the family-friendly area of Laguna Grande, you’ll find places to rest, easy trails, and a restaurant serving local specialities. And if you're curious to learn more, head to the Juego de Bolas Visitor Centre, where you’ll get a great introduction to the park’s history, geology, and biodiversity.

For those who love a good story, don’t miss the legend of Gara and Jonay. These young lovers, from rival island communities, chose to end their lives together at the highest point of the island when forbidden from being together. Their tale gives Garajonay its name – and some say their whispers still float through the mist.

A biodiversity foud nowhere else

Each part of the park has its own personality. Valley laurel forests with viñátigos and tiles; hillside zones with fayas and laurels; summit heaths where the fog clings tight... And the beauty is, they’re all within a short distance of one another — spread across just 4,000 hectares.

Across this compact area, Garajonay is home to over 480 species of flora, many of which are endemic. Its vibrant vegetation shelters around 1,000 animal species too: birds like the endemic Bolle’s pigeon and laurel pigeon, amphibians like the San Antonio tree frog, and countless insects and reptiles found nowhere else in the world.

But beyond its ecological value, the park also plays a vital role for the island. It acts as a giant sponge, capturing and storing water that feeds La Gomera’s ravines and underground reserves. It keeps the island alive. Still, what truly sets Garajonay apart is how it makes you feel. There’s no phone signal here, but you’ll reconnect — with nature, with peace, with yourself.

A place that protects and teaches

Garajonay is a conservation success story. For decades, human activities that could damage the ecosystem have been prohibited. Thanks to that, species like the fayal-brezal are giving way to the original laurel forest once more. And its trails are open to everyone — including those with reduced mobility, thanks to joëlette chairs and adapted routes.

The perfect spot to reconnect

And the best part? This ancient paradise is just around the corner when you stay with us. From Hotel Torre del Conde, located right in the centre of San Sebastián de La Gomera, you can easily reach the park and plan your routes — either independently or with trusted local guides we know well.

After a day walking among ancient trees, there’s nothing better than coming back to your room with park views or enjoying a relaxed dinner made with local ingredients at our restaurant. Because yes — we believe a place this magical deserves an equally special way to end the day.