El Hierro: How the youngest Canary Island escaped mass tourism

El Hierro is a remarkable island located approximately 500 kilometers off the west coast of Africa. It is the smallest and youngest of the Canary Islands, known for its stunning natural beauty and unique approach to tourism. While many neighboring islands are grappling with the challenges of mass tourism, El Hierro has chosen a different path, focusing on sustainability and preserving its natural environment. The island has a population of around 11,000 people, and its dramatic landscape features towering cliffs, lush forests, and volcanic formations. Unlike its more popular neighbors, El Hierro does not have large resorts or hotels, which helps maintain its peaceful atmosphere. In 2023, the island welcomed about 20,300 visitors, a stark contrast to Tenerife, which saw over 6. 57 million tourists. This difference highlights El Hierro's commitment to a more controlled and sustainable approach to tourism. During my visit, I embarked on a hiking adventure that took me through enchanting forests filled with ancient laurel trees, vibrant ferns, and moss-covered rocks. The trails led me to breathtaking views of the ocean, where I marveled at the turquoise waves crashing against the rocky coastline. I even had the chance to swim in a natural rock pool, surrounded by the island's stunning scenery, all while enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. El Hierro has been dedicated to sustainable development since 1997, with a comprehensive plan aimed at promoting its culture and traditions while minimizing environmental impact. The island has established seven different routes that encourage visitors to engage in activities that respect the local environment. Davinia Suárez Armas, the island's director of tourism and transport, emphasized the importance of balancing tourism growth with the well-being of residents and the preservation of natural resources. She stated, 'We want to increase tourism and continue to improve the island's standard of living, but not to the detriment of the residents' quality of life or the island's natural resources. ' This commitment to sustainability is evident in the island's diverse landscapes, which include over 100 endemic species of flora and fauna. Among these is the critically endangered El Hierro giant lizard, which has contributed to UNESCO designating the island as a biosphere reserve in 2000 and a World Heritage Site in 2014. El Hierro offers a variety of outdoor activities for those seeking adventure. With approximately 270 kilometers of hiking trails, visitors can explore the island's unique terrain, from volcanic badlands to sun-dappled forests. For water enthusiasts, the island boasts world-class diving opportunities and safe swimming spots in natural pools. The consistent trade winds make El Hierro an ideal location for paragliding, attracting thrill-seekers from around the world. After a day of hiking, visitors can delve into the island's rich history and culture by visiting its seven museums and visitor centers. One of the highlights of my trip was a thrilling drive up a winding road to La Dehesa, a high pasture known for its unique juniper trees shaped by the island's strong winds. These trees symbolize the resilience of the island's natural environment. The people of El Hierro have a long history of self-sufficiency, dating back to the first settlers who arrived from North Africa around 120 CE. They relied on farming, fishing, and foraging for their survival, developing innovative methods to collect fresh water in an area with limited natural resources. The story of the Árbol Garoé, a sacred tree that provided water for the Bimbaches, the island's first inhabitants, is an essential part of El Hierro's cultural heritage. I learned about the significance of water while walking along the Water Route, a 16-kilometer circular trail that showcases the island's water management systems. The island has faced challenges, including droughts that led to mass emigration, particularly in the mid-20th century. The Virgen de los Reyes, the island's patron saint, is celebrated every four years during a month-long fiesta, highlighting the community's resilience and connection to their cultural roots. As I hiked through misty pastures, I discovered a fascinating weather phenomenon known as 'horizontal rain. ' This occurs when moisture-laden trade winds collide with the mountains, creating mist that leaves tiny droplets on the vegetation and hikers alike. The Bimbaches ingeniously built water tanks beneath trees and bushes to collect this precious resource. To reach El Hierro, travelers can take a ferry from Tenerife or a flight from Gran Canaria. For accommodations, eco-friendly options like small family-run hotels provide a comfortable base for exploring the island. The local cuisine is a treat, featuring grilled meats, island cheeses, and local wines. The best times to visit for hiking are in spring and autumn, although winters are mild and pleasant. El Hierro is also making strides in renewable energy. In 2014, the island inaugurated a wind-powered hydropower station that helps meet its energy needs sustainably. This innovative facility combines wind and water power to generate electricity, showcasing El Hierro's commitment to environmental responsibility. The island aims to reduce emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. El Hierro's efforts in sustainability have garnered recognition, and the island is poised to be a leader in renewable energy and eco-friendly tourism. As I stood on a clifftop lighthouse overlooking the vast ocean, I felt a deep appreciation for the island's natural beauty and the dedication of its people to preserving it for future generations.