Today, The Octopus invites you on an exceptional cruise around the island of El Hierro. According to our boaters, this is the jewel of the archipelago—a must-see destination! That’s why we’re highlighting the best anchorages on El Hierro, a paradise where nature has been carefully preserved. This dream destination is a true gem that will leave you speechless.
Get ready for a breathtaking journey as you discover the island’s most enchanting anchorages! Without further ado, here are three great reasons to visit El Hierro, followed by the top anchorages around the island.
3 reasons to visit El Hierro
- Ecology and Preserved Nature: As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a leader in sustainable development, environmental conservation is a top priority on El Hierro. The island is a pioneer in renewable energy and has achieved energy independence. El Hierro is deeply committed to preserving its biodiversity, home to many endemic plant and animal species. Measures are in place to protect these species and their natural habitats. Visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism by following marked trails, being mindful of waste, and supporting local businesses that embrace eco-friendly practices. The island’s wild landscapes, from lush forests and rugged cliffs to black sand beaches, offer a diverse and unspoiled environment to explore.
- La Restinga Marine Reserve: Established in 1996, La Restinga Marine Reserve is home to an extraordinary diversity of marine life, including a wide variety of fish, corals, mollusks, and other sea creatures. The reserve encompasses diverse marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, underwater cliffs, and volcanic seabeds. These habitats support rich biodiversity and offer incredible opportunities for diving and snorkeling. The reserve also features an underwater volcano, El Bajón, which can be explored through diving. It’s said that Jacques Cousteau was the first to dive in La Restinga, and since then, it has become a favorite spot for diving enthusiasts!
- Cuisine: The cuisine of El Hierro offers a delightful journey through the authentic flavors of the Canary Islands. Among the island’s culinary specialties is “queso herreño,” an artisanal cheese made from goat or sheep milk, known for its creamy texture and distinctive taste. Fresh seafood is also a highlight, with dishes like grilled vieja (a type of wrasse) and “papas arrugadas” (wrinkled potatoes) served with “mojo verde” or “mojo rojo,” herb and spice sauces. Meat lovers can enjoy “conejo en salmorejo” (rabbit in salmorejo sauce), a traditional dish slow-cooked in a flavorful blend of wine, garlic, and spices. For dessert, don’t miss “bienmesabe,” almond, honey, and sugar cakes, or “quesadillas herreñas,” sweet tarts made with eggs, sugar, and lemon. As you savor these culinary delights, you’ll experience the authenticity and richness of El Hierro’s gastronomy.
The best stopovers on El Hierro Island
Puerto de la Estaca
The first stop on our journey is Puerto de la Estaca, the perfect port of entry to the island! Located in the northeast, this marina comes highly recommended by our boaters for its five-star hospitality. With 80 berths, it’s relatively small, but according to our navigators, there’s always space since it’s never overcrowded! The waters here are so clear that you can often see fish swimming, almost inviting you to take a dip.
For those who want to fully enjoy the pristine waters, there’s also a beach next to the marina! Make sure to check your fuel, though, as refueling is not yet available at Puerto de la Estaca.
The sailors using the Navily app suggest renting a car from Cicar for more convenient travel and to explore the island’s many hidden gems. These include natural pools like El Pozo de Las Calcosas and La Maceta. The island’s hiking trails are exceptional. For instance, you can take the Camino de Jinama, which crosses the El Golfo Valley, offering breathtaking views of the cliffs and sea.
To experience El Hierro’s volcanic landscapes, follow the La Llanía trail, known for its contrasting colors and rugged terrain. The El Julán Nature Reserve, famous for its unique vegetation and volcanic scenery, is also a must-see. In short, El Hierro is full of stunning hiking paths that will leave you in awe.
Roque de la Bonanza
After your adventure at Puerto de la Estaca, we recommend a peaceful anchorage at Roque de la Bonanza. Sheltered from the northerlies, it offers excellent holding in rocky seabeds.
Once anchored, you can take in the surrounding landscape. This anchorage is right next to Roque de la Bonanza, one of the island’s iconic landmarks. For the people of El Hierro, Roque de la Bonanza holds cultural and symbolic significance. Often associated with local legends and stories, it’s considered one of the most symbolic sites on the island. Standing 237 meters tall, it majestically rises above the Atlantic Ocean, creating a striking silhouette.
You can also visit the Mirador Roque de la Bonanza for a panoramic view of the rest of the island. In short, Roque de la Bonanza offers a perfect setting for a serene anchorage!
Puerto de la Restinga
Continuing your exploration of the island, we head to Puerto de la Restinga, a small port where you’ll feel like you’ve reached the edge of the world. Located next to a fishing village, it’s a quiet spot with unbeatable prices, according to our sailors. It’s worth noting that this port doesn’t offer refueling either.
No visit to El Hierro is complete without diving into the underwater wonders of La Restinga Marine Reserve. This spot is renowned as a paradise for divers and snorkeling enthusiasts, offering an immersive experience in a rich and diverse marine ecosystem. Divers can marvel at the abundance of marine life, from colorful schools of fish to majestic turtles and graceful rays gliding through the crystal-clear waters. The underwater geological formations, such as caves, volcanic tunnels, and coral reefs, add a unique dimension to this experience, giving divers the chance to explore fascinating underwater landscapes.
Whether you’re snorkeling to observe marine life or diving deeper into the ocean’s depths, La Restinga Marine Reserve promises unforgettable adventures for ocean lovers.
Punta del Agujero
Our final anchorage is undoubtedly our favorite. First, because it offers an unreal view in a dreamlike setting, and second, because it’s the southernmost and westernmost anchorage in Spain! Located in the southwest of the island, it’s well-protected from the northern winds. You can drop anchor at around nine meters in sandy seabeds with good holding. We recommend visiting during calm weather, as its exposure to the sea can make the anchorage uncomfortable. It’s also advised to anchor in front of the house with yellow windows, as you might get your anchor stuck if you get too close to the rocks!
Once settled, you can enjoy the tranquility of the anchorage, with an incredible view of the hills and the deep blue sea. This spot is isolated from any human activity, completely disconnected from the world. From your boat, you can watch an absolutely stunning sunset. The anchorage is free from light pollution, allowing you to fully appreciate the stars at night without any obstructions. In sum, this anchorage offers an unforgettable experience for nature and tranquility lovers, with idyllic landscapes and a serene atmosphere that will let you truly unwind, far from the hustle and bustle.
We hope you enjoyed this article on the best anchorages around El Hierro. In conclusion, if you’re looking for the Canary Islands’ hidden gem, El Hierro is the place for you. Whether you come to relax or seek adventure, this underrated island will give you a unique and unforgettable experience!
If you are in need of more adventures in the Canary Islands, don’t hesitate to check out our articles on Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, and El Hierro!
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