In Valle Gran Rey, deep ravines, historic trails and diverse coastal landscapes lie close together. Visitors who want to combine hiking with coastal excursions during their stay will find a range of options here, from terraced cultivation plots in Parque Rural de Valle Gran Rey to the natural pool of Charco del Conde. Conditions vary depending on the activity: trail conditions are important for hiking, while at the coast, factors include tides, surf and the services offered by operators.
Ravine Landscapes and Hiking Trails
Parque Rural de Valle Gran Rey encompasses deep ravines lined with palm trees, springs, steep cliffs and small hamlets. Terraced cultivation plots lie on the slopes of the Valle Gran Rey and Argaga ravines. They stand out from the nearly untouched surroundings and show how varied the landscape within the park is. Several hiking trails cross the area. Part of Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also near Valle Gran Rey; there are numerous hiking opportunities in the surrounding area.
One specific option is the “Entre mar y montaña” route. It connects Arure with the coast of Valle Gran Rey and La Calera via an old trail that descends from Mirador del Santo and Risco de La Mérica. The route is 11.72 kilometres long, takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes, and is of moderate difficulty. It is recommended year-round; however, the route and difficulty details are subject to trail conditions. The approximate duration makes it possible to factor the route into your day as a substantial block of time.
Along the way, the route passes former cultivation areas and agricultural terraces. Traces of the region’s pastoral past can be seen here. Visitors particularly interested in the interplay between the landscape and its former uses can consider this route description alongside the park’s natural features: ravines, steep slopes and terraces are different aspects of the same landscape here.
Cultural Connections
The Ermita de los Santos Reyes also has a long history: its origins date back to the 16th century, while the current building dates from the early 20th century. These two dates distinguish the history of the sanctuary from the construction period of the present-day building.
A recurring cultural event takes place on 6 January. On this day, the traditional Ramo is made and carried in a procession as an offering to Nuestra Señora de Los Santos Reyes, the patron saint of Valle Gran Rey. Visitors wishing to plan their trip around this custom should check the dates for their visit.
Coast and Water Activities
Charco del Conde is a natural pool in Valle Gran Rey that is usually sheltered from the open sea and offers calm waters. Tides and swell can change conditions. The pool is easily accessible from an adjacent road, where there is parking, showers, toilets and an area for children. As facilities may change, it is advisable to confirm conditions on site.
Kayaking, snorkelling and diving are available along the coast around Playa de Vueltas. Whether activities are offered depends on the operators, as well as the weather and sea conditions. Boat trips to see dolphins and whales, and to coastal locations such as Los Ă“rganos, also depart from Playa de Vueltas. Here too, operators and sea conditions determine whether a departure is possible.
Further beach descriptions offer different perspectives on the coast: A beach southwest of Valle Gran Rey offers impressive sunset views and clear turquoise water for swimming. At certain times of year, the surf should be monitored there. A 300-metre-long beach with black sand lies in a somewhat remote, rustic setting and offers a view of the cliffs of La MĂ©rica. These features complement the more sheltered characterisation of Charco del Conde; conditions at sea should be checked on site in each case.
Discover more destinations: La Calera, Tamargada, San Sebastián De La Gomera, Agulo, Hermigua, Erque, Taguluche, Arure.
Return to the main travel overview: La Gomera.
