Hiking Las Creces La Gomera 2023

Las Creces La Gomera is an enchanting, relatively easy hike through a beautiful, peaceful forest. April and May are great months to visit this area due to the blooming geraniums on the forest floor. However, it is a lovely walk at any time of year and in any weather.

Basic Information – Hiking Las Creces La Gomera

Introduction – Hiking On La Gomera

If you like hiking, you will love La Gomera. The island has the most incredible variety of landscapes, with steep cliffs overlooking rocky coastlines, and inland the coast gives way to volcanic peaks, dramatic rocks and staggeringly steep ravines.

In the heart of La Gomera is National Park Garajonay, with damp, dense forests of moss-coated trees. It seems a world away from the sunny and arid south coast. The variations in climate result in a vast range of plant life in La Gomera, where you will find cacti, lush green forests, palm trees and banana plantations.

Although the climate varies dramatically as you move around the island, the temperature is surprisingly constant. You are unlikely to experience temperatures much outside the 15-25 deg C range at any time of year. This means that the weather is almost always perfect for hiking.

However, the most significant advantage for us was the sheer volume and range of hikes on La Gomera. The Garajonay National Park has an incredible network of well-defined trails, many of which have been designated as “recommended routes.” These numbered routes, or “rutas,” are signposted and easy to follow.

The only downside of hiking on this wonderful island is that you won’t find a trail without some elevation gain. Also, many of the trails are high with steep drops and definitely not for the faint-hearted. If you dislike heights, check your routes carefully before setting out.

Overview – Hiking Las Creces La Gomera

My expectations for this trail weren’t high; the weather was cold and wet, and I knew that we were unlikely to see the spectacular views we had seen on other trails.

However, I did really enjoy this walk. The forest was incredibly peaceful (just the sounds of the birds) and surprisingly beautiful. There was a combination of gloomy, moss-covered trees and bright green plants/ferns on the forest floor.

We also experienced a strange swirling mist, somewhere between light horizontal rain and fog.

Prepare – Hiking Las Creces La Gomera

There are a few things to note before starting this hike:

1. Footwear – This is an easy hike, but some parts are a little steep, with exposed roots and some rocks. The path can get slippery when it is wet, which is often! We recommend wearing sturdy shoes with a good grip.
2. Weather – Be prepared for cold, wet weather. The temperature in the park is often significantly colder than the island’s coastal areas, and warm sunny weather can quickly change to cold and rain as you drive up to the forest.

Starting Point – Hiking Las Creces La Gomera

This trail starts at a small parking area on route GM-2, on the western side of the Garajonay National Park. The car park is on the south side of the road, and it is easy to spot thanks to a stone bus shelter on the opposite side of the road.

Route Description -Hiking Las Creces La Gomera

The trail starts with a wide downhill path, from the parking area to a small picnic area in a clearing (around 0.7km from the start). This first part of the hike was very muddy. After the picnic area, you start an anti-clockwise loop through the forest.

The trail then narrows, and there are some steeper sections with exposed roots, rocks and some steps. The second half of the loop has a wider, level path which is very easy to walk.

We found the second part of the walk to be the most attractive, with a contrast between bright green ferns along the side of the trail and the dark forest trees.

Route Variations – Hiking Las Creces La Gomera

This hike can easily be extended to include Ruta 12, another short walk taking in Raso Bruma and Riquillos Corgo.

Pros And Cons – Hiking Las Creces La Gomera

Conclusion: Why Las Creces in La Gomera Should Be on Your Hiking List

So, you’re considering a hike in La Gomera? Let’s wrap up why the Las Creces trail should be on your radar. This hike is a delightful escape into the heart of Garajonay National Park, offering a serene walk through moss-coated forests and vibrant plant life. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a family looking for a day out, Las Creces has something for everyone.

The Best Time to Visit

While April and May are particularly enchanting due to the blooming geraniums, the trail is a year-round destination. The climate in La Gomera stays relatively constant, making it almost always perfect for hiking.

What to Expect

Don’t let the lack of open vistas deter you. The forest itself is the star here, with its peaceful atmosphere and contrasting shades of green. You’ll also find well-defined trails, making it easy to navigate through the forest. And if you’re up for more, you can easily extend your hike to include Ruta 12.

Practical Tips

Remember, the weather can be unpredictable. So, pack accordingly and opt for sturdy shoes with a good grip. There’s also a picnic area, perfect for a mid-hike snack.

So, are you ready to explore the tranquil beauty of Las Creces in La Gomera? Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.