La Gomera is part of the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is divided into six municipalities:

Agulo
Alajeró
San Sebastián de la Gomeranna
Hermigua
Valle Gran Rey
Vallehermoso
The island government (cabildo insular) is located in the capital, San Sebastián.

The island is of volcanic origin and roughly circular, about 15 miles in diameter and rising to nearly 5000 feet at the central peak of Garajonay. It is shaped rather like half of a peeled orange from which the segments have been parted, leaving deep ravines or barrancos which are coated, like icing, with laurisilva - or laurel rain forest.

The central mountains catch the moisture from the trade wind clouds and create a jungle climate rich in vegetation high in the cooler air, which contrasts with the warmer sun-baked cliffs near sea level.

Between these extremes is a fascinating range of vegetation, and the Gomerans have for centuries farmed the lower levels, channelling water for the irrigation of their vines, fruits and vegetables, such as bananas.

In 2003, some 19,580 people lived on La Gomera.

The local wine is distinctive, and complements a tapa (snack) of Gomerian cheese, roasted pork or goat meat.

The Gomerans have a unique way of communicating across the barrancos (valleys) by an amazing kind of whistled speech called the Silbo. Invented by the original inhabitants of the island, the Guanches, Silbo was adopted by the Spanish settlers in the 16th century and survived after the extinction of the Guanches. When this unique medium of communication was about to die out early in the 21st century, the local government required all children to learn it in school.

Christopher Columbus made La Gomera his last port of call before crossing the Atlantic in 1492. The house in San Sebastián in which he stayed is now a tourist attraction.

Click here to book a Day trip to La Gomera, the trip includes pick up and drop off from local Southern Tenerife resorts, guided tour of La Gomera, Free time in San Sebastian, Air Con coach transport, english speaking guide, and lunch.

Cross the sea and explore the tiny island of La Gomera, famous for her beautiful scenery and vibrant history including the historical remains of Christopher Columbus' island presence. Discover dramatic valleys, green mountains, oases of palm trees crystal clear waters and lush laurel forests.