El Hierro was once considered the geographical end point of the Western World, though these days thanks to modern communication and transportation this end of the world image has changed a lot and the charming little island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is very much worth a trip
Spared by mass tourism the island paints a beautiful picture of traditional Canary life. Only 10,000 locals live on the smallest and westernmost of the Canary Islands, and they cater to the tourists with great care and hospitality.
Despite its size – the island covers an area of only 150 square miles – there is a great natural diversity to be discovered. This is owed to the volcanic origin which has decorated the island with rugged rocky areas in the south, green fields and dense forests in the north, and an almost 5000 ft peak in the middle. Should you find yourselves in the western part do not miss the old lighthouse, for centuries illuminating the westernmost point of the known world.
To link gorgeous scenery with culinary pleasures go to El Golfo valley where fruits and wine are grown on especially fertile ground. The local wineries offer samples of their sweet products and serve delicious traditional cuisine with it. You can reach El Golfo by taking the number 912 road from Valverde, the capital. The drive takes you past spectacular viewpoints and through mountainous areas until you will finally reach the valley which is framed by a half moon-shaped crater.
The underwater world matches the open-air one in beauty and diversity. The Mar de las Calmas off the southern coast with spectacular grottos and canyons is a perfect scuba diving destination, and equipment is available from local diving schools and agencies.
El Hierro was declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve due to its enormous biodiversity. Rare birds, reptiles, and insects are indigenous to the island, developed under the protection of hundreds of years of isolation at the end of the world.
