El Hierro: a unique island of eternal springtime
El Hierro is the smallest and youngest island in the Canary Archipelago and is a treasure trove of natural and cultural attractions. The island has an area of 268.71 km², making it a compact but incredibly diverse destination for travellers.
Natural Heritage
The island has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its unique ecosystem. There are more than 1,000 volcanic craters that form a unique landscape. The Parque Nacional Frontera (Frontera National Park) covers a large part of the island, offering visitors trails of varying difficulty through relic laurel forests and volcanic formations.
Coasts and beaches
The north coast is characterised by the majestic cliffs of El Golfo, reaching heights of 1,000 metres. The natural pool of Charco Azul, created by solidified lava, is a popular swimming spot.
The south coast offers several secluded beaches:
- Playa de la Arena, a beach with black volcanic sand
- Playa del Tamaduste, a sheltered cove with crystal clear waters.
- Playa de La Restinga is an ideal place for diving.
Active holidays
El Hierro offers a variety of activities:
- Diving in the Mar de las Calmas Marine Reserve (Mar de las Calmas)
- Hiking along the ancient paths of the Camino de la Llania.
- Paragliding over the El Golfo valley
- Mountain biking on volcanic trails
Transport accessibility
The island is connected to mainland Spain and the other Canary Islands by regular flights via El Hierro Airport (Aeropuerto de El Hierro). Ferry services are available from the port of La Estaca to Tenerife and Gran Canaria. The ferry journey time to Tenerife is 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Cultural Heritage
The island’s history is reflected in the many archaeological sites. The Centro Cultural Guarazoca (Guarazoca Heritage Centre) has an exhibition on the ancient Bimbache people of the island. The ancient ritual complex El Julan with its rock paintings deserves special attention.
Gastronomic peculiarities
The cuisine of El Hierro is based on local products:
- Local cheeses made from goat’s milk with a protected appellation of origin
- Fresh seafood from Mar de las Calmas
- Traditional wine from the El Golfo wine region
- Organic fruit and vegetables from local farms
Accommodation and infrastructure
Accommodation on the island ranges from casas rurales (rural houses) to modern hotels. The main population centres are:
- Valverde (Valverde) – administrative centre
- La Restinga – a fishing village and diving centre.
- Frontera is an agricultural area.
Environmental sustainability
El Hierro is the first island in the world to completely switch to renewable energy. The Gorona del Viento hydroelectric power station provides 100% of the island’s electricity needs, making it an example of environmental sustainability on a global scale.