Our Top 3 Independent Touring Holidays
June 1, 2026
0800 988 3369One of the loveliest ways to explore La Gomera is to venture beyond its towns and villages and discover the winding paths, traditional buildings and hidden landmarks scattered across the island. Among these are numerous charming chapels, often recognised by their simple whitewashed walls and beautiful natural surroundings.
Some are tucked away in peaceful forests, others overlook dramatic valleys, and many have fascinating stories connected to the island's history and religious traditions. These small places of worship remain an important part of local life, with celebrations and processions bringing communities together throughout the year.
Here are four fascinating examples you might discover while exploring La Gomera during your stay at Hotel Jardín Tecina.
Hidden within the beautiful surroundings of Garajonay National Park, the Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes is one of La Gomera's most picturesque little churches.
Situated near the hamlet of El Cedro, the chapel is surrounded by ancient laurel forest, with moss-covered trees, lush vegetation and peaceful walking trails creating an almost magical atmosphere.
The chapel was built thanks to the efforts of Florence Stephan Parry, an Englishwoman who settled on La Gomera and developed a close connection with the local community. With the help of residents, she helped establish a place of worship among the forests of El Cedro, and the chapel was inaugurated in August 1935.
Today, the little whitewashed building remains a much-loved landmark. Visitors can reach it on foot along a relatively gentle forest trail, enjoying the beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings along the way.
One of La Gomera's most important religious landmarks is the Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe, located at Puntallana, on the coast near San Sebastián de La Gomera.
The chapel is dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, the patron saint of the island, and has been a place of pilgrimage and devotion for centuries.
According to local legend, sailors travelling towards the Americas spotted a mysterious light shining from a coastal cave. When they investigated, they discovered an image of the Virgin Mary, which became the centre of an important religious tradition.
The sanctuary occupies a striking coastal setting and plays a central role in one of La Gomera's most significant celebrations, the Bajada de la Virgen de Guadalupe.
Every five years, the image of the Virgin is transported by sea from Puntallana to San Sebastián, followed by religious ceremonies, processions and celebrations across the island. This remarkable event brings together residents and visitors in a celebration of La Gomera's heritage.
Situated in the heart of San Sebastián de La Gomera, the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is one of the island's most important historic buildings.
Although considerably larger than the other chapels featured here, its history stretches back to a small place of worship established during the fifteenth century.
The church is closely associated with Christopher Columbus, who stopped in La Gomera before setting sail across the Atlantic in 1492. According to local tradition, Columbus prayed at the church before continuing his famous voyage.
Over the centuries, the building has been extended and restored, reflecting different periods of the island's history. Its attractive architecture and historic interior make it a fascinating place to visit while exploring the capital.
San Sebastián itself has plenty more to discover, including traditional streets, attractive plazas and other buildings connected to the island's maritime past.
Near the village of Alajeró, surrounded by La Gomera's beautiful mountainous countryside, stands the Chapel of Our Lady of Buen Paso.
This peaceful little chapel occupies a historically important location along traditional routes through the island's southern interior. Its surroundings provide lovely views of the rugged landscape and offer an interesting glimpse into the relationship between La Gomera's communities, their religious traditions and the natural environment.
The chapel is particularly important during the annual celebrations honouring the Virgin of El Paso, held around 14 and 15 September.
One of the highlights is the traditional procession from the chapel towards the Church of El Salvador in Alajeró. Accompanied by traditional drums, chácaras and singing, the celebration brings together local families and visitors in a colourful expression of the island's cultural heritage.
For those exploring this part of La Gomera, the chapel provides an interesting stop among the island's beautiful mountain scenery.
From hidden forest chapels to historic churches and coastal sanctuaries, La Gomera's religious landmarks offer a fascinating insight into its history, traditions and communities.
If you'd like to explore these charming locations and discover more of the island's cultural heritage, Hotel Jardín Tecina provides a wonderful base for your holiday. Contact our Fred. Holidays travel specialists to find out more about visiting this beautiful Canary Island.
