Mirador de la Curva del Queso, a 5 stars road in the Canary Islands

Mirador de la Curva del Queso, a 5 stars road in the Canary Islands

Spain, europe

Length

N/A

Elevation

609 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

# Mirador de la Curva del Queso: A Scenic Drive Through La Gomera

If you're looking for a road trip that'll make your jaw drop, head to La Gomera in the Canary Islands and tackle the GM-1. This stunning route winds through the western side of the island, connecting the capital to the charming northern town of Hermiga, and it's an absolute game-changer.

What makes the GM-1 so special? Those incredible hairpin turns. Seriously, every single curve reveals a fresh perspective of the sprawling valley below. You'll drive past dramatic cliff faces, pass through quaint little settlements, and feel genuinely immersed in nature. The scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.

The road itself sits beautifully on the west side of Valle Gran Rey (the Valley of the Great King)鈥攁 region that was once treasured for its remote, untouched character. Nowadays, you can experience that same sense of adventure on expertly maintained pavement as the road gracefully curves down into the valley, hugging the island's rugged coastline while climbing deep into the mountains.

The Mirador de la Curva del Queso observation deck marks the perfect spot to pause and soak it all in. It's the kind of drive where every kilometer gives you something new to marvel at, making it an unforgettable adventure through one of Spain's most captivating islands.

Where is it?

Mirador de la Curva del Queso, a 5 stars road in the Canary Islands is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 39.1065, -2.8497

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Road Details

Country
Spain
Continent
europe
Max Elevation
609 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
39.1065, -2.8497

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