The best traffic-free bike rides in La Gomera

There are 5 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in La Gomera featured in this guide, ranging from easy to difficult. These routes are carefully selected to offer a serene cycling experience away from heavy vehicle traffic.

La Gomera's volcanic origins mean you'll encounter a mountainous interior with significant elevation gains, winding roads, and deep ravines. Expect demanding ascents and exhilarating descents, traversing diverse ecosystems from arid stretches to lush forests, often with breathtaking ocean views. The island's roads are generally well-maintained, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience.

La Gomera enjoys a mild, year-round subtropical oceanic climate, with average temperatures ranging from 19-28°C (66-82°F). This makes it suitable for road cycling in any season. However, the cooler months from autumn to spring might be more comfortable for longer, more strenuous rides, avoiding the peak summer heat.

Yes, there is one easy route perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. The Bar La Curva – Fred Olsen Ferry to Tenerife loop from San Sebastián de la Gomera is a shorter, less demanding option to get a taste of La Gomera's quiet roads.

Absolutely. The majority of the no traffic routes in La Gomera are classified as difficult, offering significant climbs and descents. Routes like the Viewpoint of La Cumbrecita – El Contadero Parking loop from Las Creces or the Chipude Village – View of El Hierro loop from Lomo Morriña provide substantial elevation gains and distances for seasoned cyclists.

Many routes pass through or near La Gomera's stunning natural features. You can cycle through the unique laurisilva forest of Garajonay National Park, encounter the striking Roque de Agando, or even spot the Arure Waterfall. The island is dotted with numerous viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the dramatic landscape.

Yes, all the no traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are circular loops. This allows you to start and finish at the same point, making logistics simpler. Examples include the Viewpoint of La Cumbrecita loop from Alto de Garajonay and the Alojera Beach – Descent to Vallehermoso loop from Tamargada.

While direct car-free routes *within* the deepest parts of the park are limited for road bikes, routes like the Viewpoint of La Cumbrecita – El Contadero Parking loop from Las Creces take you along the edges and through areas bordering the UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll experience the unique misty atmosphere and lush greenery characteristic of the laurisilva forest, often with stunning views of the park's interior and the island's highest point, Alto de Garajonay.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in La Gomera, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the island's incredibly quiet roads, the challenging climbs rewarded with spectacular panoramic views, and the dramatic, ever-changing scenery from lush forests to arid coastal stretches. The minimal traffic allows for a truly immersive and peaceful cycling experience.

Yes, several routes offer a glimpse into La Gomera's traditional life and stunning valleys. The Chipude Village – View of El Hierro loop from Lomo Morriña, for instance, takes you through the charming Chipude village. Another route, the Alojera Beach – Descent to Vallehermoso loop from Tamargada, descends towards the picturesque Vallehermoso, allowing you to experience the island's characteristic terraced farmland and palm groves.

For most routes, you can typically find parking in the nearby towns or villages that serve as starting points. For example, routes starting near San Sebastián de La Gomera or other larger settlements will have designated parking areas. For routes deeper in the interior, look for parking near significant viewpoints or small hamlets mentioned in the route descriptions.

La Gomera has a public bus network (GuaguaGomera) that connects many of the island's towns and villages. While not all starting points may be directly accessible, you can often reach a nearby town by bus and cycle a short distance to the route's beginning. It's advisable to check the current bus schedules and routes in advance, especially if you plan to transport your bike.