El Hierro is an island in the Atlantic Ocean that is unlikely to be found in well-known travel guides or on the list of the most popular tourist resorts. However, this place deserves our attention due to its unique natural beauty and mild climate.
General information
El Hierro is the smallest and least known land island in the Canary Islands archipelago. It has a population of just over 10,000 and a total area of less than 268.71 km². The largest city on El Hierro is Valverde, which is home to the majority of the population. It is also the cultural and commercial center of the island.
It is extremely difficult to call El Hierro a popular tourist destination, so those who prefer peace and quiet will find a comfortable place to relax here. Since the island is of volcanic origin, there are many picturesque mountains and cliffs that will be of interest to hiking enthusiasts.
Interestingly, the westernmost and southernmost points of Spain are located in El Hierro. In ancient times, the island was considered the edge of the world.
Geography and climate
El Hierro is a volcanic island, so almost all of its territory is covered with mountains and hills, and in the central part there is a mountain plateau with the highest point known as Malpaso (1,501 meters).
One of the main natural attractions of the island is El Golfo Bay, which is known for its futuristic nature and stunning views. There are also many beaches on El Hierro, both small and large, with both sandy and pebbly surfaces. These beaches are mostly deserted, so you can choose to stay wherever you like.
Climate
Since El Hierro is located near Africa, the climate here is subtropical, but due to the cold currents, it rarely experiences hot and muggy weather. Throughout the year, the air temperature rarely drops below +10°C, and the water temperature never drops below +20°C.
Spring
In spring, El Hierro is warm, but it is not the best time for a beach vacation. The air temperature ranges from +20°C to +24°C, and the water temperature is +19°C. Prices are lower in spring, making it an ideal time for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Summer
During the summer, the temperature does not exceed +28°C, and the water temperature does not exceed +22°C, making it the most comfortable time to visit Yerro.
Autumn
The beginning of autumn is the peak of the high season, so the maximum number of tourists visit the island in September and early October. The air temperature rises to +30°C, and the water becomes even hotter than in summer – up to +25°C.
Winter
Winters in Yerro are mild, with temperatures not exceeding +21°C, and the water remains warm at +22°C. The number of sunny days is high, with at least 26 in December and 25 in January.
When to visit Tenerife – Weather by Month
Attractions
There are very few attractions on the island, and it is a great place for nature lovers and those who want to relax in peace. However, there are a few interesting places to visit on El Hierro to learn about the local traditions and way of life.
La Pena Observation Deck
La Pena is the most famous viewpoint on the island, located near the small village of Guarasoc, 650 meters above sea level. This part of El Hierro is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and beautiful views of the ocean.
Since the attraction was created by a human (its author is a famous Canarian architect), the design is completely safe and all the details are well thought out. Not far from the observation deck, you will find a cozy restaurant with panoramic windows and original flower beds that seem to be hanging over the abyss.
Location: Mirador de La Crucita, Hierro Island, Canary Islands, Spain.
Hinama Observation Deck
Hinama’s observation deck is located at an altitude of 1,230 meters (which is twice as high as the previous one), allowing tourists to see not only the picturesque surroundings but also the clouds beneath their feet. Locals believe that this is the place where the earth meets the sky, and it is especially beautiful on summer mornings when the sun is just rising.
Unlike La Pena, the Hinama viewpoint was completely created by nature, and it is important to remember the safety rules: do not approach the edge too close and do not attempt to climb the neighboring cliffs.
If you want to invite your significant other for a romantic dinner, you won’t find a better place than this attraction.
Location: Mirador de Jinama, El Hierro, Canary Islands, Spain
.Ethnographic Museum and Lagartarium
The main cultural attraction of El Hierro Island is the Ethnographic Museum (or Ecological Museum), which houses the most interesting exhibits related to the history of the first settlements and local traditions.
It is important to note that this is not a standard museum in a tall glass building, but rather an open-air complex consisting of numerous small stone houses that were once inhabited by the local residents. Each building features exhibits dedicated to a specific theme.
In one of the buildings, tourists can see a recreated 14th-century peasant’s dwelling, which includes tools, interior details, and furniture. The second house provides insight into the living conditions of ordinary people in the 18th century.
One of the most visited attractions is a small volcanic cave that can be visited with a guide.
It is also worth paying attention to the Lagartario Gigante de El Hierro lizard nursery, which houses unique reptiles. One of the most valuable species is a lizard that is over 1.5 meters long.
- Location: Gral de Las Puntas s/n, 38911 Frontera, El Hierro, Spain.
- Working hours: 10.30-14.30, 17.00-19.00.
- Price: 8 euros.
Natural pools of Charko Azul
The natural pools of Charko Azul are the most popular tourist attraction on the island. The reason for its popularity is the beauty of the place and the unique opportunity to swim in a natural pool on the ocean shore.
The natural pools of Charko Azul are the most popular tourist attraction on the island. It is best to visit during the winter, when the water is warm and the pools are filled to the brim. However, it can be extremely hot during the summer. Always pay attention to the weather, and if it is cloudy and windy, it is advisable to postpone your visit.
The attraction is popular, so it’s best to visit it either in the morning or in the afternoon, when most tourists have left.
Location: QX66+Q3, 38913 Los Llanillos, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
Takoron Beach
Takoron is a cozy stone beach in the southern part of the island. There are no places for sun loungers or beach umbrellas, and the only way to get to the water is through a narrow stone path lined with several benches and chairs. However, there are not many people here, so everyone can find a comfortable spot.
The ocean entrance is rocky, so it’s better to take flip-flops with you. The water is very clean, and there are almost no seaweed. During high tide, small lagoons (known as jacuzzis by locals) appear near the beach, offering a comfortable temperature.
As for the infrastructure, there is a parking lot near the beach, and there are benches and several tables for visitors on the beach. There are also small shops with affordable prices.
Positive:
- beautiful nature;
- there is a parking lot;
- few people;
- low prices.
Minuses:
- There is no opportunity to relax on a sun lounger.
Entertainments
If you don’t already know what to do in El Hierro, here are some interesting tips from travelers:
- Diving. This is probably one of the best places in the world for this sport. The underwater world in this part of the Canary Islands is incredibly vibrant and diverse, and even beginners can try their hand at diving. Head to La Restinga, a small village where you can easily find a qualified instructor and rent all the necessary equipment for diving.
- Mirador de la Peña is located in the northern part of the island, and is known throughout Spain as the restaurant “on the edge of the universe”. The attraction is located on a high cliff, which offers an impressive view of the surrounding area.
- Hiking is one of the most popular activities on the island. The nature of El Hierro is incredibly beautiful, so don’t miss the opportunity to explore the most spectacular hiking trails.
- A paragliding flight is an ideal opportunity to look at the island from a bird’s-eye view and to see the local nature even better. Mountain peaks, the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and picturesque villages will be presented to your eye.
How to get
Hierro is part of the Canary Islands, and the nearest island, La Gomera, is 110 km away. Tenerife and El Hierro are separated by 130 km. The distance to Africa (the city of Boujdour in Western Sahara) is just under 260 km.
There is a small airport in El Hierro that receives flights from northern Tenerife. Flights are operated three times a day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The flight takes 40 minutes, and ticket prices range from 36 to 90 euros. It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, as there are usually seats available on all flights.
If the plane option is not suitable, consider the ferry that departs daily (except on Saturdays) from Los Cristianos to Valverde. The departure time of the ferry is subject to change, so it is important to check the schedule before traveling. The ferry ticket costs 49 euros. The journey takes approximately 4.5 hours.
There is only one ferry company that operates on this route, Naviera Armas, so tickets must be purchased in advance. This can be done on the carrier’s official website or at the port’s ticket office: https://secure.navieraarmas.com/inicio.
Interesting facts
- Until the 20th century, a number of scientists and cartographers believed that the Ferro Meridian (or the Prime Meridian) was located on the island of El Hierro.
- There are no factories or plants on the island, and the only significant technical structure is a wind-hydraulic power plant.
- There are occasional underwater volcanic eruptions near El Hierro Island. The last one occurred in 2011.
- Yerro Island was added to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves list.
El Hierro is an island for those who love peace and beautiful nature.
