El Hierro Travel Guide: Diving, Hiking & Total Escape
The smallest Canary Island is a hidden gem for divers, hikers and anyone seeking the road less travelled.
9 min read
Diving in the Mar de las Calmas
The Marine Reserve of La Restinga is one of Europe's premier dive destinations. The warm, clear waters host sea turtles, rays, barracuda and volcanic rock formations. Visibility often exceeds 30 metres. No certification? Snorkelling here is equally rewarding.
Hiking El Sabinar & the lighthouse
The ancient juniper trees of El Sabinar, twisted by the Atlantic wind into fantastical shapes, are the island's most photographed sight. The coastal hike continues to Faro de Orchilla — the westernmost point of Spain, historically considered the edge of the known world.
Sustainable island life
El Hierro is internationally recognised for its wind-and-hydro energy system. The island has no mass-resort atmosphere and rewards slow travel. Local restaurants serve goat cheese, grilled fish and papas arrugadas. A car is especially useful for remote viewpoints and trailheads, while public transport requires more itinerary planning.
Renting a car at VDE
DiscoverCars currently compares suppliers at El Hierro Airport rather than providing separate La Estaca or Valverde pages. Fly-in visitors can compare terminal and meet-and-greet pickup. Ferry passengers should arrange transport from La Estaca or confirm local delivery directly before paying.
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El Hierro
El Hierro Beginner Scuba Diving in La Restinga
Try scuba diving for the first time in La Restinga with theory, full equipment and a professional instructor beside you throughout the sea dive.
- Professional instructor
- Full diving equipment
El Hierro
Compare Car Rental at El Hierro Airport (VDE)
Compare current VDE car rental offers by total price, supplier score, deposit and terminal or meet-and-greet pickup.
- VDE-specific offers
- Supplier ratings
El Hierro
El Hierro Airport Private Transfer
Compare a private or shared transfer from El Hierro Airport (VDE) to Valverde, La Restinga or your accommodation.
- Airport pickup
- Private or shared
Planning the rest of the trip? See everything on our El Hierro island page.
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