The stopover in La Gomera was an opportunity for participants to discover the spectacular scenery and tranquil atmosphere of this island, one of the smallest in the Canarian archipelago, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2012.
San Sebastian de la Gomera and its marina – Photo: Christian Sprogoe
In order not to overcrowd the marina at San Sebastian de la Gomera, the fleet of boats were divided in two, and each benefited from a warm and professional welcome.
The arrival of the first fleet coincided with the feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe, patron of the island of la Gomera, which meant the sailors were able to enjoy a music of traditional folk music, and the procession of the Virgin around the chapel of Puntallana.
Folk music concert
Procession of the Virgin around the chapel of Puntallana – Photo: Isabelle Meyer-Peter
The sailors also enjoyed a bus excursion organised by the Tourism Office of La Gomera in order to discover the delights of the island.
The sailors on their excursion
The valley of la Hermigua, a great producer of bananas – Photo: Christian Sprogoe
The lofty Mirador de Abrante normally has views of the Mount Tiede, on the day unfortunately covered in clouds – Photo: Christian Sprogoe
At the visitors centre, the sailors listened to the guide’s explanations next to a model of the island – Photo: Christian Sprogoe
A walk in the ancient forest of the Garajonay national park, a UNESCO world heritage site – Photo: Christian Sprogoe
Typical volcanic scenery, the lava cone of the Roque de Agando looms out of the mist – Photo: Christian Sprogoe
The valleys in La Gomera with their distinctive steep slopes – Photo: Christian Sprogoe
Photo: Christian Sprogoe
The two fleets have now continued on to La Palma, a little to the north, where they will be reunited for an evening social before continuing on their way through the Canaries to El Hierro.
Barbados 50 is sponsored by Barbados Tourism Marketing and Tenerife Port Authority.
