Chipude - Arguayoda - La Dama

Route 17 descends from the central-western highlands of La Gomera to the coast of La Dama, crossing one of the island’s most isolated, arid and authentic areas. It is a linear and demanding route, ideal for experienced hikers who wish to explore ancient mule tracks, historic hamlets and terraced agricultural landscapes that survive under extreme conditions. The trail begins in the hamlet of Chipude, known for its aboriginal history, its centuries-old church and its proximity to the Fortaleza de Chipude, a geological landmark of the island’s interior. From there, the route follows traditional paths towards Igualero, the highest inhabited settlement on La Gomera, offering panoramic views of the southern coast, the Fortaleza, and, on clear days, even El Hierro. After Igualero, the route begins a steady descent towards Erquito and Arguayoda, two nearly abandoned hamlets that still preserve valuable examples of traditional Canarian rural architecture, old cultivated terraces and water channels. Along this section, it is common to encounter palm trees, tabaibas, cardones and vegetation adapted to dry climates. The trail continues to the La Rajita ravine, an area that once housed an important fishing and industrial complex and now lies quietly facing the sea, offering a solitary place rich in history. From there, the route follows the coastline until it finally reaches La Dama, an active agricultural settlement surrounded by greenhouses, cultivated plains and palm groves. This trail is a journey of great landscape and ethnographic interest, allowing hikers to understand the connection between summit and coast in one of the least frequented and most authentic areas of the island. Ideal for those seeking a long-distance route with a strong cultural component, expansive views and a gradual change of scenery.