Why Switzerland Is Europe's Adrenaline Capital
March 8, 2018
Whether you're a daredevil who lives for that adrenalin rush or you just love to challenge yourself, the beautiful island of La Gomera will be the perfect holiday spot for you. Here you can try out a multitude of extreme sports, from intense bike rides to jaw-dropping paragliding sessions.
We have recommended four different extreme sports you can experience when staying in La Gomera, at Hotel Jardin Tecina.
La Gomera is the perfect place for orienteering, due to its warm climate that lasts all year round. If you're an avid orienteer who's looking to improve your skills, why not explore the many different terrains andaltitudes on this stunning island? The map covers the narrow and windingstreets of San Sebastian, the capital of La Gomera.
When following this map, you'll have the chance to see military forts like the Torre Del Conde, buildings that showcase traditional architecture and even trace the steps taken by Christopher Columbus himself when he made his last port of call before discovering America. You'll get to experience history, sport and culture all at once. What more could you want?
Orienteers will notice the map is split into two sections. The first has a very flat terrain and concentrates on the discovery of remains that explain the history and culture of the island. The second section allows orienteers to immerse themselves in a maze of narrow alleys and winding streets, with steps located around the area to help overcome the different levels of terrain.
There are five different running trails in La Gomera, ranging from flat terrains in Tecina to steep inclines in Valley Gran Ray. The route in Tecina takes you on a slow incline up to Jerduñe, which is 1,000 metres above sea level. On your run, you'll pass many wide open spaces, red trails and forest areas that all provide the opportunity for a brief break.
The Valley Gran Ray trail starts in Las Hayas, an idyllic mountain village, and takes you down to La Calera through many winding roads. You'll then pass the Gran Rey ravines, which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding oceans. So be sure to stop for a quick photo.
El Cedro is in the east of La Gomera and has one of the most attractive, yet difficult, trail running routes on the island. You'll first travel from Hermigua to El Estanquillo, then through a lush green ravine to El Cedro, before descending down to Atajo and finishing in the busy city of San Sebastian.
If trail running and orienteering are too tame for you, why not try paragliding in Hermigua? When visiting this municipality, you'll notice many colourful wings floating around in the sky, as it's the main flying spot on the island. However, rather than watching it all, why not climb up to the top and join in the fun?
Hermigua is one of the busiest places in La Gomera for paragliding, due to its excellent weather conditions providing the perfect amount of breeze to keep you floating along. These climate conditions mean flights can last hours, so check you're comfy before setting off.
Paragliding enthusiasts are encouraged to attend the Skypar Paragliding Festival which occurs each year during September. Here visitors from all over the world can enjoy the breathtaking sight of the rainbow of wings, or join in and fly over the landscape themselves. Try not to look down when taking off if you're afraid of heights; you're 450 metres above sea level and on the face of a mountainside.
For the dedicated cyclists out there who love to travel across the world, trying out new cycling paths and unique terrains, La Gomera has exactly what you're looking for. Steep climbs, tunnels through to valleys and winding roads are just a few of the landscape features to expect.
It's recommended you begin in San Sebastian and start your climb, but don't worry, you'll be rewarded with a tunnel that descends you down to the valley of Hermigua. You'll then get to dart through the laurel forest, overflowing with lush green vegetation including broadleaf trees, before descending again towards the coast.
The Garajonay National Park should also be on your list of places to pass through, as you'll climb to the highest peak in La Gomera, 1,340 metres high, as well as see the symbol of the island, Roque Agando. Cycling around this circular route is a great way to discover all of the highlights of the island in a short space of time.
If you wish to book your stay at Hotel Jardin Tecina and experience these amazing, extreme sports, then contact us via our website or give us a call.
