The island stands out for its volcanic landscapes, seabeds, juniper woodlands (sabinares), pine forests, remnant laurel forest and nature reserves.
A compact, rugged island where volcanic cliffs face the ocean with a future-oriented outlook.
Among its main reference points are Myth of the edge, Biosphere Reserve, Energy innovation, which connect landscape, memory and everyday life. Island nature is best understood as a relationship between ecosystems and human uses, not as scenery separated from history.
Key points
El Golfo and La Dehesa
The El Golfo depression is home to the farming landscape of La Dehesa, an area of vineyards, jable (wind-blown volcanic sand) and protected coastlines; it is one of the most distinctive landscapes in the Canary Islands.
The juniper woodland of La Dehesa
El Hierro's sabinar, with its junipers twisted by the wind, is a unique ecosystem in the Canaries; it is one of the longest-lived forests in Macaronesia.
La Restinga Marine Reserve
La Restinga is home to a Marine Reserve whose volcanic seabeds hold great biodiversity; it is one of the archipelago's leading diving destinations thanks to its visibility and wealth of species.
Remnant laurel forest and pine woodland
El Hierro preserves pockets of laurel forest on its higher ground and pine woods in the midlands; although smaller than those of La Palma or La Gomera, they are ecosystems of high value.