The best traffic-free bike rides around San Sebastián De La Gomera

There are a few dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around San Sebastián De La Gomera, offering a unique experience away from vehicles. Currently, you can find 3 such routes, ranging from easy to difficult, providing options for various skill levels.

La Gomera's volcanic origins mean that road cycling routes, even those with no traffic, feature significant elevation gains and challenging ascents. There are hardly any flat areas, so expect rewarding descents and demanding climbs. Routes like the Viewpoint of La Cumbrecita – El Contadero Parking loop from Las Creces and the Chipude Village – View of El Hierro loop from Lomo Morriña are classified as difficult, requiring good fitness. However, there is also an easy option, the Bar La Curva – Fred Olsen Ferry to Tenerife loop from San Sebastián de la Gomera, which is shorter and has less elevation.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in La Gomera offer breathtaking panoramic vistas. You can expect distant views of Mount Teide on Tenerife, stunning coastal views, and dramatic volcanic formations. Routes often pass through areas with expansive views across deep barrancos and the island's unique landscapes. The Viewpoint of La Cumbrecita loop from Alto de Garajonay is specifically named for its scenic outlooks.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes listed are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This includes routes like the Bar La Curva – Fred Olsen Ferry to Tenerife loop from San Sebastián de la Gomera and the more challenging Chipude Village – View of El Hierro loop from Lomo Morriña.

The routes often traverse areas of significant natural beauty. You might cycle through sections of the ancient laurisilva forest, characteristic of Garajonay National Park, or past striking volcanic rock formations like Roque de Ojila. Some routes offer views of the coast and access to picturesque beaches. While not directly on the road cycling routes, nearby attractions include the White Caves and the Chinguarime Beach.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience in this region, with an average score of 4.18 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic volcanic landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the unique experience of cycling through ancient laurisilva forests and along quiet, scenic roads with minimal traffic.

While La Gomera is known for its challenging terrain, there is an easy no-traffic road cycling option available: the Bar La Curva – Fred Olsen Ferry to Tenerife loop from San Sebastián de la Gomera. This route is shorter and features less elevation, making it more accessible for beginners or families looking for a gentler ride. For more challenging rides, electric bikes are also a popular option to help navigate the inclines.

La Gomera generally offers pleasant cycling conditions year-round due to its mild climate. However, the best time is typically during the cooler, drier months from autumn through spring (October to May). Summers can be warm, especially at lower altitudes, but the higher elevations offer cooler temperatures. Winter cycling is also very popular, as the island provides a warm escape from colder climates elsewhere.

San Sebastián de La Gomera, as the capital, offers various parking facilities. Many routes can be accessed directly from the town, where you can find public parking. For routes starting further afield, such as the Viewpoint of La Cumbrecita – El Contadero Parking loop from Las Creces, there are often designated parking areas at trailheads or viewpoints, making it convenient to start your ride.

While the routes themselves are designed to be traffic-free, they often pass near or through small villages and towns where you can find local cafes and restaurants. It's always a good idea to check the route details on komoot for specific points of interest and services along your chosen path. San Sebastián de La Gomera itself has numerous options for food and drink before or after your ride.

While the listed routes are well-regarded, La Gomera's extensive network of quiet roads and paths means there are always opportunities to discover less-traveled sections. Exploring the interior, particularly around areas like Majona Nature Reserve, can reveal stunning, solitary landscapes and quiet roads with expansive views, offering a true hidden gem experience for those willing to venture off the most popular paths.