The archipelago is home to some of the finest beaches and seafront resorts accessible to Europe - but the islands also contain expanses of unique, breathtaking scenery that you are unlikely to see anywhere else on earth. Lunar-looking stretches of volcanic terrain suddenly merge into lush, green forests, giving some parts of the Canaries the feel of a prehistoric paradise just waiting to be explored.
2. The archipelago is home to some of the finest beaches and
seafront resorts accessible to Europe - but the islands also contain
expanses of unique, breathtaking scenery that you are unlikely to
see anywhere else on earth. Lunar-looking stretches of volcanic
terrain suddenly merge into lush, green forests, giving some parts
of the Canaries the feel of a prehistoric paradise just waiting to be
explored. Add to this the fact that the weather stays warm all year
roundandyouhavethe makingsoftheperfectholidayall in one.
4. Take a leisurely stroll through El Hierro’s rich history one
lava-rock house at a time at Guinea Ecomuseum. The most
significant of its kind in Europe, this aborigine settlement
features traditional houses with thatched roofs. Meanwhile,
Risco de Tibataje cliff in El Golfo Valley dominates the
backdrop, making for a more rustic feel.
Welcoming each visitor are twenty dwellings, some are
well-preserved and furnished, while others are ghostly
ruins. These houses provided shelter for the early
inhabitants of the island, the Bimbaches, in the 16th to
the 20th centuries. Underneath is a fascinating lava
tunnel that is as captivating as the sights above the
ground.
5. Moreover, the area is shared with an organization that is
undertaking a captive breeding program for El Hierro’s giant
lizards. These elusive endangered species that were
previously thought to be extinct are engrossing and a sure
hit with kids. Indeed, Guinea Ecomuseum and the
underlying area has something in store for visitors of all
ages.
Unlike the gray and black exterior of the houses, the story
of the establishment and survival of the village is full of
colors. Known as one of the oldest Aborigine settlements
in El Hierro, Guinea was built long before the pre-
Hispanic period.
7. Although smallest of the Canaries, El Hierro remains
blessed. It has some of the most beautiful landscape not
only in the archipelago but also the world. The island,
featuring several protected natural and rural parks, has a
majestic yet diverse terrain. From ancient Laurel forests to
arid terrains and volcanic peaks, it is also home to the
Frontera RuralPark.
Located in the western part of El Hierro, the park covers
an impressive area of 120 km2. Frontera Rural Park is
proof that man and nature can co-exist. It’s unique
mosaic of landscapes and pockets of small residential
areas neverfail to surprise visitors.
8. So, gear up and prepare for a day out with nature.
Experience first-hand the most diverse and magical natural
wonders that are nothing short of awe-inspiring in El
Hierro’s largest natural park.
Everything an adventure-seeker asks for, Frontera Rural
Park can provide. This protected park has dense forests,
arid areas and a plethora of activities for its guests. In a
day, visitors can see the majestic wind-twisted juniper
trees, bath near a marine reserve and stroll down
pathways that offer a peek into bygone times.
10. Along the northern coast of La Gomera sits the charming
and sleepy town of Agulo. Perched on a dramatic jagged cliff
that halts abruptly to the Atlantic Ocean, this town is a
natural balcony. From almost every angle, the magnificent
view of the vast ocean and the majestic Mount Teide
dominate the scene.
Known as the Bonbon of La Gomera, the charm of Agulo
lies in its surrounding greenery and story-tale buildings.
Delightful white-washed colonial houses with ochre
roofs create a stark contrast with the lovely patchwork of
banana plantations. Winding cobbled streets pave the
way to quiet plazas and other interesting off-the-beaten
spots.
11. Meanwhile, the laid-back way of life and friendly locals are
the kinds that warm the soul and lighten up any gloomy
day. Indeed, this piece of paradise is the perfect place to be
for those looking for a break from thefast-paced life.
Agulo, as if custom-made for the ultimate rest and
relaxation, lacks holiday resorts and theme parks. What
awaits visitors instead are lovely small-town strolls, awe-
inspiring views and interesting landmarks and buildings.
13. Playa del Faro is the perfect brew of sun, sea and natural
beauty. Clinging on the southernmost municipality of La
Palma, the beach comes with pebbles and the island’s
signature volcanic black sand. Watching over it is a stunning
landscape featuring rocky surfaces topped off with a lot of
hike-friendlyvolcanoes.
Soaring sea cliffs cradle the beach giving a more isolated
feel to Playa del Faro. It also features two interesting
lighthouses, one of them dating back to the early 20th
century. As serene as it can be, the waters are particularly
warm and calm on most days. Beneath the surface, scuba
divers feast in the interesting underwater sights and
ochre-colored seabed.
14. In addition, the beach is not only convenient for cars and
buses, it can also accommodate disabled visitors. Despite its
popularity, El Faro has maintained itself blissfully secluded
from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
Playa del Faro is a part of the Volcanoes of Teneguia
National Monument for many good reasons. One is the
spectacular beauty of its 75-meter-long beach which
mesmerizes visitors the momenttheyarrive.
16. Perched on the slope of an evergreen valley overlooking the
Atlantic Ocean is Valverde, the town capital of El Hierro. As
with many unique things about the pristine island, Valverde
is the only landlocked capital in the Canary Islands. At an
altitude of almost 600 meters above sea level, the town can
be foggy. Hence, Valverde is also fondly called the Village
Above the Clouds.
On a clear day, a view of the low white houses with ochre
roofs contrasting the surrounding greenery is as
picturesque as it can be. The town is also a stunning
natural balcony, with views over Tenerife and La Gomera.
Even as it portrays the role of the island’s center of
commerce and services, Valverde has preserved its
tranquility and delightful simple way of living.
17. Located in the north east of El Hierro, Valverde is the
religious, social and administrative center of the island. This
ancient settlement was founded during the initial stages of
the conquest of the Canaries at the end of the 15th century.
Originally belonging to the Counts of the bigger island of La
Gomera, it has gained political independence four eventful
centuries later.
A stroll through the quiet streets of Valverde offers
visitors a peek into the island’s past. Age old churches dot
the town as well as buildings with traditional Canarian
architecture. Those who have a penchant for old,
historical places will surely find this township a jewel in
the crownof El Hierro.
19. Unlike other capitals on the larger Canary Islands, San
Sebastian de La Gomera doesn’t have a busy feel to it. A
short ferry ride from Tenerife, this city and municipality
feature stunning natural, cultural and historical sights. Like
the rest of the island, it has also remained tranquil and
unspoiled.
Wander the streets that are dotted with traditional
buildings and enjoy the views of colorful boats bobbing
in the harbor. Furthermore, explore the rest of the city
and discover why more and more tourists are attracted to
this gem inthe Atlantic Ocean.
20. San Sebastian de La Gomera is a peaceful city and
municipality steeped in history. During the time of the
Guanches, it started as a settlement with a protected bay for
sailing ships. By the mid-15th century, the city was officially
founded and developed by Hernan Peraza which would
become thecapital that it is today.
Visitors who have a penchant for historic spots will surely
have the time of their lives at San Sebastian. Although it
has undergone ongoing growth and changes throughout
its history, the city has left behind interesting remnants of
its eventful past. As such, these monuments are sure to
bring the experiences of a bygone era closer to the hearts
of the island visitors.