ALAJERÓ - An Authentic Experience in Canary Islands Beaches

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ALAJERÓ
An Authentic Experience in Canary Islands Beaches
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La Gomera is known as the Quiet Canary due to
its calm and pristine natural state. It doesnt
mean theres no action happening though. In fact,
there are lots. Most especially in Alajeró, one
of the islands six municipalities. It is a
mind-blowing hiking destination with an
exceptional network of trails and vistas. There
are also plenty of enthralling places to visit
and leisure activities to enjoy.
A Look Back in Time
The municipality of Alajeró is part of the
ancient Guanche territories of Hipalán and Orone.
Although there is not much written about its
history, its colorful heritage is evident with
the old churches and festivities still held to
this very day. Playa de Santiago, on its coast,
is a town that has been fascinating people for a
long time. It continues to captivate tourists the
way it did with the fishermen who founded it
centuries ago. Blessed by gorgeous weather and
natural beauties, the once idyllic village became
a hub for canneries and ship repair facilities in
early 20th century. And, in more recent years, it
has become La Gomeras top tourist
attraction alongside the Garajonay National Park.
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Things to Do in Alajeró
Located on the south coast of La Gomera, Alajeró
is a serene municipality with lush palm trees and
all-year-round sun. Footpaths in its mountains
and hills lead to untouched spectacles and quaint
villages. Although it has fewer tourists
compared to other islands in the Canaries, it is
in no way less marvelous. In fact, the cliffs
surrounding its coastline, Antilados de Alajeró,
is both a national park and a site of scientific
interest.
Hiking Trails
Alajeró has a chain of well-marked trails
crisscrossing its diverse landscape. These routes
introduce tourists to the many facets of a
pristine Canarian island. Some tracks go through
rainforests and grassy slopes. Others pass by
goats and herds of sheep grazing the terraced
fields. There are also paths to quaint villages
with stone houses where time seemed to have
stopped. Whichever trail, every step taken
immerses one with nature and striking panoramas.
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Drago de Agalan
The most popular walking route in the
municipality of Alajeró takes guests to one of
the most astonishing sights in the world. A
leisurely 20-minute walk from the main road in
the outskirt of the town leads to the Drago de
Agalan. The dragon tree, standing tall and proud
even after 400 years, is the symbol of La Gomera.
It is not only the oldest but also the largest of
its kind in the island.
Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Buen Paso
Only a 3-kilometer hike along the mountainside,
the trail to Ermita del Buen Paso is anything but
ordinary. The small church houses the image of
Our Lady of Buen Paso. Each year, during
mid-September, it also holds one of the most
popular festivals on the island. Visiting during
the festivities in honor of the patron saint is
the best way to get to know the people, culture,
and tradition. Apart from the festival, the
idyllic spot is also a mirador with a magnificent
view of the southern coast.
Ermita San Isidro
A stony path yet an easy trail to Tagaragunche
from Alajeró is another favorite of hikers. At
its peak is the hermitage of San Isidro. Small
and unassuming, the church houses the image of
San Isidro Labrador and one of the Virgin of the
Carmen. It also offers an exquisite panorama of
the southern coast of La Gomera.
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Iglesia del Salvador del Mundo
Nestled in the heart of the town is the parish
church of Salvador del Mundo. The remarkable
church, built in 1512, has a stone brick facade
and whitewashed sides surrounded by Laurel trees.
It also houses a 17th-century statue of Jesus
Christ.
Playa de Santiago
Playa de Santiago is one of the most popular
tourist attractions of La Gomera. Sun-loving
globetrotters love the touristy yet still
slow-paced, small-town vibe. Also, the plethora
of restaurants and accommodations available makes
for a convenient and comfortable stay. Protected
from the surf by the jetty, calm water
surrounding the shore is clean and safe for
dipping and swimming. On its coast, visitors take
a leisurely walk as well as soak in the sights on
the promenade. Playa de Santiago is the epitome
of a laid-back oceanfront paradise with endless
fun and amusement. Dolphin and whale-watching,
kayaking, snorkeling, and diving are among the
favorite activities here. There are other beaches
nearby. For instance, Playa del Medio is only an
hour walk away and popular with nudists and
naturists.
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A Home for Everyone
Alajeró is a magnificent municipality with so
much to offer. Spending only a day is not enough.
Hence, the best way to see and experience its
beauty is to stay for a few days. Feel at home
and basked in the warmth and hospitality that is
unique to this magnificent town and municipality.
Hotel Jardin Tecina
A world-class property right on the beachfront,
Hotel Jardin Tecina is only a minute walk from
the clear waters of the Atlantic. Adding to the
vibrant environment of the hotel are its colorful
and lush gardens. Besides having a private
terrace and hot tub in each room, there is also
an outdoor pool. The hotel also has a fitness
center for guests to keep in shape. Other
amenities include squash, mini golf, and tennis
in the property.
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El Drago Rural House
A holiday rental with an impressive view of the
Atlantic and the mountains is irresistible. El
Drago Rural House, situated in the highlands, is
a two-bedroom house with traditional Canarian
architecture. The fully air-conditioned unit
comes with a kitchen and other amenities. Because
of its location and the scenic landscape, this
country house is the perfect home for couples.
Pensión La Gaviota
People visit Alajeró because of the natural
wonders. Hence, some prefer to stay in a simple
bed and breakfast hotel. Pensión La Gaviota
stands out because of its amenities and
convenient access to several bars and restaurants
in its vicinity. All rooms in the pension house
come with free WiFi. Furthermore, there are
different types of rooms to choose from such as
having a balcony and private shower.
Villas Parque Mirador
Feel at home in one of the villas in the
exclusive residential village of Santa Ana.
Villas Parque Mirador offers modern living while
preserving the traditions of the island. Each
unit comes with a terrace, a fully-equipped
kitchen with dishwasher, and a full bath. A few
of the more spacious homes also have a seating
and dining area. For convenience getting around,
car hire is also available.
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The Flavors of Alajeró
There are many restaurants in Alajeró, of which
the most diverse, and a good number of them, are
in Playa de Santiago. Some serve international
cuisines, but the most commonly offered dishes
are Canarian, Spanish, and Mediterranean. When it
comes to food choices, seafood dishes reign
supreme and are always fresh.
El Meson de Clemente Restaurant
All the food served at El Meson de Clemente is
divine. The charcoal grilled steak, though, is
the clear favorite. Other must-tries include
barbecued lamb cutlets, prawns or steak in
Roquefort sauce, grilled goat, local cheese, and
pumpkin chutney. They also have a good list of
wines for pairing with the grilled dishes. For
the finale, try their chocolate mousse pudding.
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Lelo Restaurant
For bread, pastries, and sweet delights, Lelo
Restaurant is the place to go. Its so popular
with both locals and tourists that people start
lining up before it opens so they can have
breakfast. Recently too, they added a couple of
seats outside. All their cakes and pastries are
to die for, but the most popular ones are
portugusi tart, pastel de nata, lemon meringue
pies, and pasteis de belem. The coffee they serve
is also excellent.
Restaurante Club Laurel
The menu and wine list in this open-air roofed
veranda restaurant are extensive. Thus, diners
are sure to find something that suits their
taste. Furthermore, guests can have their orders
cooked to preference to guarantee satisfaction.
Some of their famous dishes are the langoustine
salad, foie gras on bread, chicken soup with
mushroom ravioli, local pork tenderloin, steaks,
and pizzas. For dessert, try any of their ice
creams, gateaux, and parfaits.
Junonia Restaurant
The best seafood restaurant in the whole of La
Gomera is in Alajeró. Junonia in Playa de
Santiago serves the fresh catches of the day
cooked to perfection. Any dish they have on the
menu is a must try, that is how good the food is
here. For a little variety, they also have a few
sumptuous meat alternatives.
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How to Get There
Most guests arrive at the island through the port
in San Sebastián de La Gomera. From the capital,
take bus line 3 to Playa de Santiago then Alajeró
(the town). During weekdays, the bus departs at
07.00, 10.30, 12.00, 15.30, 17.45, and 20.30. On
Saturdays, it is 07.00, 10.30, 12.00, 15.30,
17.45, and 21.30. And, on Sundays and holidays,
10.30 and 21.45. For tourists flying in, the La
Gomera Airport is very close to Playa de
Santiago. Visitors can ride a taxi or hire a car.
Bus line 7 takes travelers from the airport to
San Sebastián de La Gomera.
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Authentic Canary Experience in Alajeró
Ever wondered what brought the first waves of
tourists to the Canary Islands? It wouldnt have
been the palatial hotels, artificial white sand
beaches, or the whole avenue of bars and
restaurants. No. Those were but additions to what
was an untouched paradise. Many crave for the
real Canaries. Towering massifs with softly
curved slopes, instead of massive resort
complexes. Stone houses and clay roofs in valleys
and hamlets, not modern apartments and villas.
Black volcanic sand beaches, rather than imported
crushed white coral sands. Where others may feel
touristy and artificial, Alajeró remains
authentic. Hence, the little municipality is
still the best place for an authentic Canary
experience.
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