• Mirador de la Peña – Designed by César Manrique, this clifftop viewpoint offers jaw-dropping panoramas over El Golfo valley.
• Charco Azul – A stunning natural swimming pool formed in volcanic rock, one of the best places to take a dip.
• La Restinga Marine Reserve – A diver’s paradise filled with lava caves, marine life, and vibrant reefs.
• El Sabinar – Visit the island’s twisted, wind-shaped juniper trees, a true natural wonder.
• Roque de la Bonanza – A dramatic sea stack, great for photos and diving.
• El Pinar Forests – Gorgeous pine woodlands ideal for hiking, picnics, and spotting native birds.
• Valverde – The island’s tranquil capital with whitewashed buildings and scenic hillsides.
• Tacorón Beach – A peaceful cove with red lava cliffs and turquoise water, perfect for snorkeling.
• Garoé Tree – A sacred tree in local legend, believed by the indigenous Bimbache people to be a source of life-giving water.
• Centro de Interpretación Vulcanológico – Learn about the island’s volcanic origins and seismic history.

• Bajada de la Virgen de los Reyes (every 4 years, next in 2025) – The island’s biggest festival with dancing, traditional music, and a sacred pilgrimage.
• Fiestas de La Candelaria (February) – Held in Valverde, with processions and cultural events.
• Romería de San Isidro (May) – A countryside celebration with folk dress, music, and local food.
• Subida al Mirador de la Peña Rally (summer) – A thrilling car rally up the island’s most scenic road.
• La Restinga Fish Festival (October) – A celebration of fishing culture, seafood, and live music.

• El Hierro was once considered the "end of the world"—the prime meridian ran through it before Greenwich.
• It's the first island in the world to aim for 100% renewable energy using wind and hydro.
• The island has no traffic lights.
• The giant lizard of El Hierro was declared extinct—then rediscovered and reintroduced.
• It’s the least populated Canary Island.
• Locals are called herreños/herreñas.
• El Hierro has no large hotel chains—just local guesthouses and eco-lodges.
• The island was formed by massive underwater volcanic eruptions.
• It's a popular training ground for elite freedivers.
• Star Wars-like landscapes at El Julan and Malpaso make it feel like another planet.

What is the island known for?
El Hierro is known for its volcanic beauty, eco-sustainability, diving spots, and minimal tourism. It's often described as the most authentic and untouched of the Canary Islands, offering a retreat into wild nature and rural life.

Is the island a good destination for families?
Yes, El Hierro is safe and peaceful, making it great for families looking to unplug, explore nature, and enjoy beach coves and hiking trails. However, entertainment for young kids may be limited compared to larger islands.

Is the island safe for tourists?
Extremely safe. El Hierro has a very low crime rate, and locals are friendly and helpful. It’s a great choice for solo travelers or anyone seeking a tranquil escape.

Do you need a visa to visit the island?
As part of Spain and the EU, Schengen rules apply. EU/EEA citizens can enter freely. Others may need a Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days.

What is the best way to get to the island?
Fly from Tenerife North (TFN) or Gran Canaria (LPA) into El Hierro Airport (VDE), or take a ferry from Los Cristianos (Tenerife) to Puerto de La Estaca. Flying is faster; the ferry offers beautiful views.

Should I rent a car on the island?
Yes! Public transport is limited. Renting a car is the best way to explore remote beaches, villages, and hiking trails. Roads are safe and scenic.

Is the island wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility is improving, but many areas (especially natural sites) have steep or uneven terrain. Contact accommodations and tour operators in advance if accessibility is needed.

What are the island’s most famous landmarks?
Mirador de la Peña, Charco Azul, Sabinosa, El Golfo, and La Restinga Marine Reserve are iconic. Don’t miss the natural pools, volcanic fields, and highland pine forests.

What are the best beaches on the island?
Charco Azul and La Maceta are famous natural lava pools. Tacorón offers calm waters and great snorkeling. Most beaches are rocky or pebbled, not sandy—but the water is clean and beautiful.

What is unique about the island’s wildlife?
The island is home to the El Hierro Giant Lizard, once extinct in the wild, now protected. La Restinga Marine Reserve is teeming with tropical fish, barracuda, dolphins, and manta rays. Birdwatchers will love the cliffs and forests.

What traditional foods should you try?
Try queso herreño (smoked cheese), mojo sauces, papas arrugadas, fresh seafood, and puchero (Canarian stew). Local pineapple and banana wine, as well as gofio desserts, are also island favorites.

Can you drink tap water on the island?
Yes, the water is treated and generally safe to drink, although some prefer bottled water due to the taste or mineral content.

What is the nightlife like on the island?
Nightlife is quiet and local-focused. Think small taverns, seaside bars, and the occasional live folk music performance. It's all about tranquil evenings and stargazing, not nightclubs.

How can I stay connected to the internet on the island?
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and towns. Mobile coverage is solid. SIM cards from Spanish carriers (Movistar, Vodafone, Orange) work well here.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home?
Handmade pottery, woven crafts, mojo sauces, gofio, herreño cheese, local wines, and volcanic stone jewelry make for memorable gifts.