The Canary Islands have been firm favourites with Brits for years when it comes to holidays full of sun, sea and sand. But there’s one lesser-known gem with almost no tourists
The island has ‘crystal clear waters’ (Image: Getty Images)
For decades, the Canary Islands have remained firm favourites amongst British holidaymakers seeking sun, sea and sand getaways. The bigger islands such as Tenerife and Lanzarote are renowned for their lively resorts and stunning coastlines, though this popularity does result in significant tourist crowds during busy periods.
Yet there exists one hidden gem amongst the Canary Islands that not only offers spectacular scenery and pristine waters, but remains virtually tourist-free due to its remote location. El Hierro is so remarkable that UNESCO has declared the entire island a Biosphere Reserve, thanks to its dense woodlands, dramatic volcanic terrain, towering pine forests and rugged clifftops that create the landscape.
Diving enthusiasts flock to the island, attracted by its crystal-clear waters teeming with diverse marine species, with visibility so exceptional that on bright days you can see down to depths of 30 metres. Tourism officials for the Canaries describe it as “one of the best places on the planet for scuba diving”. It comes as
It should be noted that El Hierro lacks traditional sandy beaches, but wild swimming enthusiasts can indulge themselves in the island’s numerous natural rock pools with their picture-perfect azure waters. Charco Azul, fittingly known as the ‘blue pond’, consistently amazes visitors with its turquoise waters, nestled at the foot of a volcanic precipice, reports the Mirror.
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The compact size of the island makes it perfect for exploration on foot, with trails leading you through the best of its scenery, from pine forests to coastal views. A highlight is the Camino de Jinama, an ancient path used by locals, which, despite being only about three kilometres long and having a few steep sections, offers breathtaking views of El Hierro.
Don’t expect a bustling nightlife or a multitude of hotels here; the focus is more on eco-friendly accommodations and boutique options, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. There are a few hotels and places to stay that cater to a range of budgets.
If you’re looking for a mix of exploration and the classic beach and party atmosphere associated with the Canaries, regular flights from Tenerife and Gran Canaria make it easy to include El Hierro in a broader itinerary.
This is definitely a destination for adventurous travellers who prefer to venture off the beaten path, whether that’s diving in La Restinga Marine Reserve or spending a night stargazing at the stunning Roque de los Muchachos Observatory.
You won’t have to compete with hordes of tourists to enjoy the island’s beauty. According to a study by BookRetreats, El Hierro is one of Europe’s least crowded islands, with just 610 overnight stays per km2, a stark contrast to Tenerife’s 16,873.