Vallehermoso - Tamargada - Playa de Vallehermoso - Vallehermoso

This stage of the GR-131 leaves the town of Vallehermoso and heads south towards the village of El Cercado, crossing some of the most rugged and scenic landscapes of western La Gomera. From the very beginning, the trail climbs steadily along traditional paths that quickly gain altitude, offering increasingly wide views over the Vallehermoso valley, the surrounding ravines and the Atlantic Ocean in the distance. The route runs through areas where agriculture and nature coexist, with terraced fields, stone walls and patches of native vegetation shaping the landscape. As the trail progresses, it enters more remote areas characterised by steep slopes and deep ravines, particularly the Barranco de Arure, one of the most dramatic gorges on the island. The path follows ancient communication routes used for centuries by local inhabitants, revealing the island’s strong rural character. Along the way, Canary Island palms, tabaibas and balos dominate the vegetation, while panoramic viewpoints provide impressive perspectives over the island’s western sector. The route then approaches the rural settlement of El Cercado, internationally known for its traditional pottery made without the use of a potter’s wheel. This cultural heritage is closely linked to the landscape and the availability of natural resources such as clay and water. Walking through the surrounding paths allows hikers to understand the intimate relationship between local communities and their environment, shaped by isolation and adaptation to the terrain. The final stretch descends gently towards El Cercado, passing cultivated plots, palm groves and small ravines before reaching the village centre. This stage combines physical effort with cultural discovery and offers a deeper insight into the traditional lifestyles that have defined La Gomera for generations. It is a demanding but highly rewarding route, especially for those interested in both natural scenery and ethnographic heritage.