El Hierro

The smallest of the Canary Islands

El Hierro is the smallest, south-westerly-most island in the archipelago. It is home to the giant lizard (Gallotia simonyi), which can grow up to 60 cm (24 inches) long and is on the verge of extinction, as well as the spectacular juniper. Its crystal clear waters make El Hierro a great destination for divers, with the added attraction of discovering the legends hidden amongst its ravines and cliffs, towering up to 1000 m (3,280 ft) high. The volcanic landscape merges with the wonderful greenery on its peaks to create a picture postcard that is best enjoyed whilst savouring El Hierro's typical "quesadilla" (cheese tortilla). Peace and quiet reigns across El Hierro, even in the tourist areas, with a mostly family atmosphere and a fishing village vibe. You can take a ferry to El Hierro from the south of Tenerife, and there are also flights.