Information
Landmark: El Cedro ForestCity: La Gomera
Country: Canary Islands
Continent: Europe
El Cedro Forest, La Gomera, Canary Islands, Europe
Overview
Tucked inside Garajonay National Park, El Cedro Forest is one of La Gomera’s most striking sights, with cool mist drifting between ancient laurel trees, besides this ancient forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, ranks among the last surviving laurel forests on Earth, where damp leaves still release a sweet, earthy scent.El Cedro draws hikers and nature lovers with its dense, mist-draped trees, rich wildlife, and a quiet, otherworldly beauty that feels like stepping into the island’s wild heart, also here’s what stands out about El Cedro Forest: 1.El Cedro sits in the northeast of La Gomera, tucked deep inside Garajonay National Park, where damp, moss-covered laurel trees and rare wildlife thrive, moreover perched between 800 and 1,200 meters (about 2,600 to 3,900 feet) above sea level, the forest stays cool and damp, perfect for laurel trees and other rare native plants; El Cedro belongs to this laurel forest, a subtropical woodland that once blanketed the Mediterranean but now survives only in a few secluded places like La Gomera.Thick tangles of laurel twist overhead, their trunks slick with moss, while green undergrowth crowds the forest floor in the damp, high-altitude air, in turn most mornings-or just after rain-a cool mist drifts in, softening the edges of every shape.The mist curls between the trees, softening their edges and deepening the forest’s mystery, also el Cedro shelters rare plants found nowhere else but La Gomera.Alongside the laurel trees, the forest shelters Canary Island pines, heather, ferns, and other plants that flourish in the cool, damp shade, at the same time it’s also alive with wildlife, from the rustle of the laurel pigeon’s wings to the bright flash of a Canary Island chaffinch darting between branches.You’ll also find reptiles, such as the Canary Island lizard basking on warm rocks, along with all sorts of insects, likewise in El Cedro, birdwatching draws many visitors, since the forest shelters the island’s rare bird species.As it turns out, Thanks to the constant humidity, moss clings to tree trunks and lichens spread like soft green lace, covering the woods in a rich, leafy glow, in turn these organisms flourish in the laurel forest’s cool, damp shade, a defining feature of the ecosystem, for the most part It appears, El Cedro Forest’s winding trails cut through moss-covered paths, inviting hikers to wander and take in its quiet beauty, equally important the trails range from gentle strolls to demanding hikes, winding through some of the forest’s most breathtaking spots.One favorite is the Sendero de El Cedro, a moderate path that cuts through the forest’s heart and opens onto sweeping views of the El Cedro valley and the rugged mountains beyond, also the trail stretches about 6 km (3.7 miles) and usually takes 2–3 hours, depending on how fast you walk.You can also follow a circular route linking El Cedro to other parts of Garajonay National Park, winding through forest and into the dramatic Barranco de Guarimiar, therefore along the way, you’ll cross cool, mossy paths and climb rocky outcrops where the valleys and mountains spread out below you.Some stretches of the trail climb sharply, so it’s best suited for seasoned hikers who don’t mind a challenge, to boot the El Cedro area also holds deep roots in the island’s rural history, once serving as a gathering destination for local communities.The cedar trees-namesake of the forest-once supplied sturdy beams for houses and smooth-grained wood for hand-carved tools, likewise for centuries, locals farmed and grazed their animals in the forest, the sound of goat bells carrying through the trees.Just beyond its edge sits El Cedro, a small village tucked close to the green canopy, likewise a handful of houses cluster in the village, and there’s a small restaurant where hikers can sit down, rest, and savor steaming plates of traditional Canarian food.The village makes a perfect starting point for wandering the forest’s winding trails, where pine needles crunch underfoot, at the same time el Cedro and the land around it hold deep cultural and spiritual meaning for the people of La Gomera.For generations, the forest’s wild beauty has fed local myths-stories of ghostly lights between the trees-and remains a cornerstone of the island’s folklore, simultaneously today, El Cedro’s lush trails and teeming wildlife draw eco-tourists from around the world.You can wander the trails, watch bright-winged birds flit through the canopy, snap photos, or just breathe in the quiet of the ancient forest, in addition spring and autumn are ideal, when cool air drifts through and the trees glow their deepest green.Frankly, Mist drifts through the forest in every season, wrapping the trees in a soft, silver haze that feels almost otherworldly, likewise if you’re curious about its plants, wildlife, or past, you can join one of the guided tours.Local guides can share rich insights into the ecosystem, from how the laurel trees scent the damp air to the traditional ways locals use the plants, and you can reach El Cedro by car via the main roads in La Gomera, especially from the town of Agulo, somewhat The road to the forest twists through sharp bends, narrowing between tall pines, yet the pavement stays smooth and clean, equally important you’ll find parking close to where the trails begin, with a few spots shaded by tall pines.Honestly, Public transport to El Cedro is scarce, though buses and taxis run from the island’s larger towns, meanwhile the easiest way to get to El Cedro-and wander through the hills and nearby villages-is often to rent a car.El Cedro Forest, with its cool mist and centuries-vintage laurel trees, is one of La Gomera’s most magical treasures, offering a glimpse of nature in its purest state, as a result el Cedro’s thick green canopy, alive with birdsong and wrapped in soft mist, offers a peaceful retreat deep in the heart of nature.If you hike, snap photos, or just love the smell of pine in the air, you can’t miss El Cedro when you’re out exploring the island’s stunning landscapes, furthermore on La Gomera, the forest blends breathtaking views with layers of history and vibrant culture-you can smell the damp earth as you walk its winding trails.
