The best hiking trails in El Hierro: natural exploration and adventure
El Hierro is an ideal destination for hiking lovers, offering routes that stand out for their natural beauty and diversity of landscapes. The island, part of the Canary Islands, has a favorable climate that allows you to enjoy these activities all year round. This article explores the best hiking routes in El Hierro, providing information on their characteristics and the necessary preparation. Emblematic and challenging routes will be addressed, as well as safety tips for those who wish to venture on its trails.
El Hierro is an island that invites you to get lost on its trails and reconnect with the purest nature. With an abrupt and surprising territory, this jewel of Macaronesia offers hiking trails through laurel forests, dormant volcanoes, towering cliffs and breathtaking viewpoints.
Far from mass tourism, walking in El Hierro is an authentic experience, where every step reveals the wild and silent soul of the island. In this guide we show you the best hiking trails in El Hierro for you to enjoy an unforgettable adventure among unique landscapes and unparalleled biodiversity.
El Hierro: Canary Islands. World Biosphere Reserve
1. Hiking Exploration in El Hierro
El Hierro stands out for its natural environment, ideal for hiking. The variety of landscapes and biodiversity make this island an exceptional place for lovers of outdoor activities.
Importance of El Hierro in the Canary Islands
El Hierro is the smallest of the Canary Islands, but its relevance lies in its impressive biodiversity and unique landscapes. The island offers trails that connect mountains, coasts and valleys, creating a diverse hiking experience. Its rugged geography provides not only challenges, but also incomparable views.
Biosphere Reserve and Geopark
El Hierro’s designation as a World Biosphere Reserve and Geopark highlights its ecological value. This status guarantees the conservation of its ecosystems and encourages sustainable tourism. Hikers can enjoy endemic flora and fauna, as well as unique geological formations. The hiking trails cross protected areas, where you can appreciate the richness of nature in its purest state.
Favorable Weather and Season
The climate in El Hierro is mild and temperate, which favors the practice of hiking throughout the year. Temperatures are rarely extreme, which allows both beginners and experts to enjoy the routes in any season. However, the most recommended months for hiking are spring and autumn, when the weather is more stable and temperatures are pleasant.
- Spring: Ideal to enjoy the flora in bloom.
- Autumn: Cool climates and autumn landscapes.
- Summer: Warm temperatures, early departure is recommended.
- Winter: Although there may be cold days, hiking is still viable.
2. Emblematic Routes of El Hierro
The Emblematic Routes of El Hierro offer a unique immersion in the nature and culture of the island. Each trail has its own charm and particularities, ideal to enjoy spectacular landscapes.
Jinama Road
This trail, although currently closed, is one of the most emblematic routes of the island. Its attraction lies in the panoramic views that offer extraordinary views. Made up of spectacular stretches, it is expected to reopen soon, attracting many hikers.
Camino de la Llanía
With a length of 6.85 km, this trail of moderate difficulty allows you to enjoy varied landscapes. It is suitable for all levels of ability, standing out for its natural beauty and accessibility.
Tour Characteristics
The route, which can be covered in about 1 hour and 50 minutes, crosses pine and juniper forests, making it an unforgettable experience for those seeking to connect with nature.
Flora and Fauna
The biodiversity on this route invites to observe endemic and diverse species, enriching it even more. The richness of the vegetation provides a unique setting during the hike.
PR-EH-3: Las Playas Natural Monument
This circular trail, with 16.53 km, is ideal for those looking for a greater challenge. With a positive elevation gain of 1,297 meters, the PR-EH-3 is known for its impressive viewpoints.
Challenges and Views
The route presents challenges such as steep inclines, but every effort is rewarded with spectacular views of the ocean and contrasting vegetation.
Outstanding Viewpoints
- Las Casas
- The Isora
- Isora Viewpoint
Path of the Virgin
This coastal trail is perfect for those who enjoy the sea and the scenery. The ease of the trail makes it a popular choice, offering exceptional views of the ocean.
PR-EH-9 Circular of Cres and La Dehesa
With a length of 7.48 km, this route is more oriented to hikers in good physical shape. Through the Dehesa, it allows to contemplate panoramic views and the local flora.
3. Challenging Routes and their Attractiveness
The challenging routes in El Hierro offer a unique experience for those seeking an adventure in the middle of nature. With breathtaking landscapes and a rich biodiversity, these routes are perfect for hikers with good physical preparation.
El Sabinar de La Dehesa
This circular trail is considered one of the most difficult on the island. With a length of 13.7 km, it crosses a unique natural environment, with the majestic juniper tree as the protagonist. This tree, emblematic of the Canary flora, provides an immersive experience in nature.
During the hike, hikers are immersed in a landscape of great beauty, where the combination of mountains and ocean offers unforgettable panoramic views. The route is ideal for those seeking a physical challenge while enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.
Los Ajos Cave - San Martín Hermitage
This circular route, covering 14.98 km, is a journey that combines both natural wonders and elements of the island’s cultural history. Along the way, hikers explore various geological formations, including the famous Los Ajos Cave.
This trail also passes by the emblematic San Martín Hermitage, which stands as a testimony of local history. As you go along, you can enjoy spectacular views from different strategic points.
Cultural and Natural History
Cueva Los Ajos, with its intricate rock formation, is not only a natural attraction, but also part of El Hierro’s rich geological heritage. The stories and legends surrounding the hermitage offer a glimpse into the island’s past and its connection to local traditions.
Isora Viewpoint
The Mirador de Isora becomes a highlight of this route, providing a breathtaking view of the ocean and surrounding valleys. This viewpoint is ideal to pause and enjoy the majesty of the Canarian landscape. It not only highlights the natural beauty, but also allows you to appreciate the contrast between the vegetation and the sea.