GR 131 Cumbres de La Gomera

The GR 131 crosses La Gomera along the island’s central ridge, forming one of its most complete and demanding long-distance routes. Over several stages, the trail reveals the island’s landscape, ecological and cultural essence, linking summits, valleys and traditional settlements in a true mountain traverse. The route follows terrain deeply carved by ravines, making it an intense hiking experience marked by continuous ascents and descents that require good physical fitness. In its central section, it reaches Alto de Garajonay (1,487 m), the island’s highest point and the summit of the National Park, where wide-ranging views open across La Gomera and, on clear days, towards other islands of the archipelago. One of the great highlights of the GR 131 is the succession of striking volcanic formations that punctuate the landscape. Monumental volcanic plugs and domes, such as La Fortaleza de Chipude, Roque Agando and Roque Cano, rise as geological landmarks that visually structure the territory and reflect La Gomera’s complex volcanic history. Environmental diversity is another defining feature of the route. The trail passes through laurisilva forest — an ancient subtropical laurel forest of high ecological value — as well as extensive areas of regenerating fayal-brezal woodland. At lower elevations, cardonal-tabaibal shrublands appear alongside stands of Canary Island palm and enclaves of sabinar (juniper woodland), creating a varied plant mosaic shaped by altitude, orientation and the influence of the trade winds. Beyond its natural heritage, the route connects places of significant historical and ethnographic interest. Along the way lie settlements with a strong rural identity, where agricultural terraces, traditional architecture and enduring cultural expressions reflect the close relationship between local communities and a landscape that is both rugged and fertile. The island’s capital, San Sebastián de La Gomera, together with towns such as Vallehermoso, Chipude and El Cercado, form part of this journey that weaves together nature and collective memory. The GR 131 in La Gomera is not simply a mountain trail, but a comprehensive crossing through the island’s identity. Each stage combines sweeping panoramas, ecological contrasts and cultural traces, turning the route into a profound and lasting experience for those who seek to understand the island through its landscapes.