El Hierro is the second smallest Canary Island and the most westerly with a population of just 11,000 – and it’s a world away from the tourist hotspots of Tenerife and Lanzarote
A stunning overlooked Canary Island that tourists frequently bypass has successfully dodged mass tourism unlike Tenerife and Lanzarote.
Tenerife has remained a favourite destination amongst Britons as holidaymakers rush to the island for its consistent pleasant climate, magnificent coastlines and vibrant nightlife.
However, if you’re seeking to dodge the masses and experience a more genuine getaway spot in the Canaries, then El Hierro is your answer. Celebrated for its untamed magnificence, El Hierro stands as the second tiniest Canary Island and the furthest west with merely 11,000 residents.
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Approximately 1.2 million years ago, El Hierro was formed when it rose from the Atlantic Ocean after centuries of fierce underwater volcanic activity, forging a dramatic terrain, reports the Express.
This heart-shaped isle remains absent from the tourist trail, welcoming just a fraction of visitors compared to neighbouring islands – roughly 20,300 guests in 2023, whilst Tenerife, the biggest Canary Island, attracted over 6.57 million.
Since 1997, El Hierro’s objective has been to increase tourist numbers steadily by adhering to a sustainable growth strategy that champions its heritage and customs, emphasising pursuits with minimal environmental consequences and enhancing the island’s facilities whilst protecting the natural environment.
Davinia Suárez Armas, island director of tourism and transport, explained the island chooses to “maintain our culture and share our quiet way of life with visitors.
“We want to increase tourism and continue to improve the island’s standard of living, but not to the detriment of the residents’ quality of life or the island’s natural resources.”
El Hierro, with only one set of traffic lights across the entire island, no towering hotels, and its first paved road only appearing in 1962, is a haven for those seeking a slower pace.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding El Hierro are a diver’s dream, teeming with an array of fish and rays. Punta Restinga, opposite the fishing harbour of La Restinga town, is a prime diving spot on the island.
During the day, divers can spot spiny puffer fish, whitebait, damselfish, lee fish, bream, and possibly even a manta ray. When night falls, stingrays and lobsters make their appearance.
On land, El Hierro is famed for its unique rock formations and deep black sand, offering ample opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Across the island, you’ll find a variety of restaurants serving traditional Canary Islands cuisine, minus the usual tourist crowds.
El Hierro boasts Designation of Origin wines, fresh fish caught using protected artisanal fishing techniques, unique cheeses, and typical dishes rooted in strong farming traditions.
Quesadillia, a traditional dessert from El Hierro, is a smooth-textured cake made from local cheese, sugar, lemon and anise, baked in a wood-fired oven.
While there’s no direct route from the UK to this unique airport, El Hierro boasts its own airport with daily direct flights to and from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Alternatively, a ferry service is available from the port of Los Cristianos in Tenerife, taking approximately two and a half hours.
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