The best MTB trails in El Hierro

For centuries, people didn't come here for the landscape. They came for the water. Legend has it that the mineral waters that spring up in this corner of western El Hierro had healing properties and that many people traveled long distances to drink them or bathe in them. Thus, the name Pozo de la Salud was born. Today the place still has something special. Between the cliffs, the ocean, and the isolation of this part of the island, it's hard to imagine a more remote place to find a spring that would become one of the best-known spots on El Hierro. Some come looking for the spa, others for the sunset or the views over the Golfo. What many discover is a hard-to-explain feeling: that of being at the edge of an island that seems to end right here, between rock, sea, and silence.

A peaceful spot amidst spectacular and diverse nature, where you can find a beautiful pine forest, a verdant woodland, and moss-covered laurel forest, as well as other tree species. Several trails start from this point, the most famous being the one to Pico Malpaso. The picnic area and freshwater springs are a welcome respite for hikers.

The old main road between Valverde and Frontera, now almost forgotten after the tunnel opened. Constant curves, an uneven surface, and a narrow path clinging to the cliff. Little traffic, plenty of views. Here, the wind shifts depending on the slope, and the road surface forces you to read every meter. There are no barriers, no comfortable shoulders: it's a route for those who want to cycle attentively and in silence. An authentic stretch that connects extreme landscapes with recent history.

It's not just a crooked tree: cycle among junipers shaped by the trade winds. The wind here isn't a problem if you anticipate the change of direction. Seek shade between bends: the ground is cooler, which is welcome on long rides. Get an early start if you want good photos: the sidelight highlights shapes and textures. Include the Hermitage of Los Reyes in your route and descend along less-traveled tracks towards Bascos. This area is home to the El Hierro giant lizard: rare to see, but it exists. If you're quiet, it sometimes lets you see it.

At 1,230 m above sea level, it offers one of the most spectacular views of El Hierro: El Golfo Bay, the north coast, and a tapestry of vineyards, pineapple and banana trees. It has parking, a rest area, and picnic tables, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty. Next to the Hermitage of Our Lady of Charity, it is also the starting point of the historic Jinama Trail and routes such as the Volcano Trail, which invite you to explore volcanic landscapes and unique corners of the island.

One of the most spectacular balconies on El Hierro, where the laurel forest opens up to offer views of the Gulf and the highest cliffs in the Canary Islands. The contrast between the humid green of the forest and the endless blue of the Atlantic is unforgettable. It's part of one of the most beautiful hiking trails on the island, and on clear days, the horizon seems endless.

Currently (February 14, 2024) a section of this road is closed due to construction work. Officially only passable on Friday from 2 p.m. and on weekends. Otherwise you can try your luck, but there is no other option than to drive through the construction site (which is possible if the crane is not there).

Beautiful viewpoint, picnic area and starting point for hikes. Located on the Bajada trail.