Inside little-known island with stunning beaches that visitors say is better than Tenerife… and far less crowded

A RELATIVELY unknown “paradise” island in a British holiday hotspot promises an escape from the hustle and bustle and even more stunning beaches.

La Gomera in the Canary Islands is said to be better than its neighbour Tenerife – smaller, lesser-known, more affordable, and possibly more beautiful that its popular counterpart.

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One of Canary’s seven islands, La Gomera is a less busy and less known alternative[/caption]

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Less night life is swapped for more nature activities[/caption]

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It has miles of volcanic beaches sheltered by spectacular mountains[/caption]

A lot of people have heard of Lanazarote, Tenerife and Gran Canaria, but far fewer have been to the Atlantic island chain’s dreamy La Gomera, which offers a different kind of experience.

The Canaries’ secret isle is only a short ferry ride from Tenerife and still features its black sand volcanic beaches, stunning scenery, wonderfully warm temperatures, but without its high-rises blocks, rampant nightlife and busyness.

In a blog entitled “Go here, not there” expert traveller, Loria Zaino, writes: “a natural paradise offering incredible hikes and gorgeous scenery…

“The island is ideal for anyone looking to trade the busy city for lush greenery.”

The second smallest Canary Island hosts 150km of hiking trails, a national park, miles of dramatic sun-drenched coastline, mountains and plenty of local cuisine and wines.

For the intrepid explorers and active holidaymakers, the isle features mist-covered forests, deep ravines, quaint mountain villages and bumpy roads leading to secret beaches.

It’s also easy to check out the other six islands on the Spanish archipelago by boat or a short flight.

What you miss in nightlife seems to be made up for in spectacular scenery and plenty of activities, according to those who visit.

A TripAdvisor reviewer this May wrote: “A perfect place for an active vacation. Forget the crowded beaches, this is the softest place I have ever visited. Hiking is the name of the game.”

Another added: “Really spectacular volcanic vistas and scenery”.

“I found it to be wonderfully quiet, but enough places open to be very enjoyable…I recommend it as a place to relax,” said a third.

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Its misty forests and ravines coat the protected island[/caption]

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It’s known as a ‘natural paradise’[/caption]

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Recent travellers to the isle have admired its scenery and hiking trails[/caption]