Things to Do in El Hierro

Known as the second smallest island in the Canary Islands, just behind La Graciosa, El Hierro is actually the youngest of the Canaries. Despite its small size, I can promise you’ll discover incredible viewpoints, turquoise natural pools and beautiful sunsets by the sea.

Declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, El Hierro is also home to lush walking trails perfect for hiking. It’s one of the best destinations if you love diving too, thanks to its spectacular seabed, where it’s common to spot manta rays, giant groupers and huge shoals of fish.

For many years, this island was considered the edge of the known world, until Christopher Columbus reached America. Today, all eyes are on El Hierro because it’s able to supply itself for long periods using only renewable energy. If you’d like to discover this and many more fascinating facts, welcome to this list of the ten best places to visit in El Hierro.

1. Mirador del Pozo de las Calcosas

From Mirador del Pozo de las Calcosas you’ll enjoy spectacular views over a small coastal village with traditional houses topped with thatched roofs. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most photogenic spots to see in El Hierro.

As well as admiring the village, from up here you can clearly see the natural swimming pool protected from the waves — so take the chance to go for a refreshing dip.

Other top viewpoints to visit in El Hierro include:

• Mirador de la Peña, designed by César Manrique, with views over the El Golfo valley and a restaurant on site.
• Mirador de Bascos, near El Sabinar, ideal if you fancy a short walk from there.
• Mirador de Lomo Negro, offering views over the island’s most volcanic landscape.

2. Playa y Piscinas Naturales de La Maceta

Located on the coast of the El Golfo valley, the natural pools of La Maceta are volcanic rock pools sheltered from the open sea. Looking for the best place to swim in El Hierro? Make a note of this one.

Very close to the pools, at Playa de La Maceta, you’ll find showers, resting areas, parking and a restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat. With its crystal-clear waters, this is the perfect place to spend the day — whether you’re travelling with children, as a couple or solo.

I’d even say you’ll find some of the best sunsets in El Hierro right here. Watching the sun dip below the horizon and paint the sky in shades of orange is a real treat. Easily one of the must-see places in El Hierro.

3. Charco Azul

Formed between ancient lava flows, another must-see in El Hierro is Charco Azul. This natural pool stands out for its intense turquoise-blue colour, especially when the tide is high and the sunlight hits the volcanic seabed.

To reach it, you’ll walk along a wooden boardwalk while taking in the sea views and the dramatic volcanic rock that shapes the island. After heading down a set of steps, you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear waters and that magical feeling of being somewhere almost secret.

Extra tip: as it’s one of the best things to do in El Hierro, I recommend arriving early so you can grab a good spot, lay down your towel and relax in the sun.

4. Playa de Tacorón

Playa de Tacorón is one of the most beautiful spots in El Hierro. Surrounded by old lava flows and reddish-toned volcanoes, this small cove offers a completely different landscape from other beaches in the Canary Islands.

Just so you know — and to avoid any false expectations — Tacorón isn’t a golden sandy beach, but rather a collection of natural rock pools and volcanic swimming areas where you can bathe when conditions allow.

To get there, you’ll drive along a narrow road and park at the top. Then it’s a short walk down a dirt path to reach the crystal-clear waters waiting at the end. A perfect place to switch off and enjoy the peaceful Mar de Las Calmas.

5. Faro de Orchilla

Located at the westernmost tip of the island, Faro de Orchilla is another of the key places to visit in El Hierro. For centuries, this spot was considered the end of the known world and marked the old prime meridian, before it was moved to Greenwich.

Reaching this part of the island feels truly magical. The sunsets, the stillness and the sense of discovering somewhere new make it an unforgettable experience. It’s a visit I highly recommend if you’re travelling to El Hierro.

Extra tip: very close by, you’ll find a lava tube that few people know about. After parking, follow the path on your left. Just a few metres along, you’ll see some steps. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a torch.

6. El Sabinar

If you’ve been looking up information about El Hierro, you’ve probably seen this image. El Sabinar is one of the island’s most iconic natural symbols. Located in La Dehesa, this forest of twisted juniper trees has been shaped for centuries by the constant trade winds.

Recognised as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, walking among these trees is a unique experience. Each one has a different shape, and many people see human or animal figures in their leaning branches.

Beyond its beauty, El Sabinar holds great cultural and ecological value, as locals have used its wood for years to build homes and tools. It’s a perfect example of nature adapting to extreme conditions — and another must-see in El Hierro.

7. La Restinga

La Restinga is a small fishing village at the southern tip of El Hierro, internationally known as one of the best diving destinations in Europe. If you’re wondering where to go diving in El Hierro, its crystal-clear waters and extraordinary marine biodiversity will win you over.

After the underwater volcanic eruption in 2011, the seabed here regenerated spectacularly, turning the area into a true natural laboratory.

If you love underwater photography, this is your place. The prestigious Open Fotosub competition is held here, where photographers capture manta rays, huge shoals of fish and a wide variety of marine species.

Beyond diving, La Restinga has a peaceful, authentic feel. A stroll around its small harbour, enjoying the local cuisine or simply gazing out at the sea makes this a must-stop on any El Hierro road trip.

8. Playa del Verodal

Another of the best beaches in El Hierro is Playa del Verodal. With its striking reddish and orange tones, shaped by volcanic erosion, it sits on the island’s northwest coast. Surrounded by cliffs and lava flows, the scenery here is simply spectacular.

To reach it, you’ll walk along a path built from volcanic rock. The beach is usually almost empty, making it perfect for a peaceful stroll or to watch the sunset.

Extra tip: always check the sea conditions carefully, as swimming isn’t always allowed. It’s also a great spot to bring a sandwich and enjoy a relaxed picnic, as there’s a shaded area with tables and benches.

9. Ecomuseo de Guinea

The Ecomuseo de Guinea is another must-visit in El Hierro if you’d like to understand the island’s history and traditional culture. Here, you’ll explore an old Herreño settlement with traditional houses, animal pens and ethnographic displays showing what life was like on the island centuries ago.

One of the main highlights is its impressive volcanic lava tube, which lets you see up close the volcanic origins of El Hierro. During the visit, a guide will explain the natural processes that shaped the island.

You’ll also find the Centro de Recuperación del Lagarto Gigante de El Hierro here, dedicated to protecting this emblematic species that was once on the brink of extinction. You can buy tickets on the official website.

10. La Llanía

If you enjoy hiking, you can’t miss La Llanía, one of the most beautiful and accessible walking routes in El Hierro. This circular trail takes you through lush laurel forests, heather and ferns — a green, misty landscape very different from other parts of the island.

One of the highlights is the Mirador de La Llanía, offering spectacular views over the El Golfo valley and the north coast of El Hierro. It’s the perfect place to pause and soak up nature at its purest.

Even if you’re not used to long walks, this route is easy and suitable for all types of travellers. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, water and plenty of enthusiasm to enjoy one of the best hikes in El Hierro.

Map of Places to Visit in El Hierro

In Conclusion

If you enjoyed this top 10 of places to visit in El Hierro, don’t forget to check out my other guides, such as Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura or La Gomera.

It’s always a brilliant idea to visit more than one island and discover different corners of the Canary Islands. While many share similar dishes, I’m sure you’ll still come across new flavours to try.

With its exceptional year-round climate, El Hierro, though small, truly has it all: laurel forests, stunning viewpoints and countless natural pools.