El Pinar, the volcanic south of El Hierro

El Pinar is the municipality in the southern part of El Hierro and one of the most tranquil in Canary Islands. Its territory slopes down from the pine forests of the summit to the coast of La Restinga, the southernmost fishing village in the archipelago. It is a municipality with two faces: above, forests of Canary pine and recreational areas; below, a volcanic coastline with the Marine Reserve of Mar de Las Calmas, one of the best destinations in diving Europe.

In addition, thanks to the CanariasLife webcam in La Restinga you can see live the port, the sea state , and the conditions before heading south on the island.

La Restinga and the Mar de Las Calmas

La Restinga is a small fishing village with a dark volcanic sand beach and calm waters, protected from waves by its southern orientation. It is about 300 meters long and perfect for family swimming.

Next to the beach are the Natural Pools of La Restinga, natural pools of volcanic rock that fill with crystal clear water with every tide. They are ideal for those who prefer calm waters and no sand.

However, what has made La Restinga famous worldwide is the Marine Reserve of Mar de Las Calmas. Its waters are home to turtles, manta rays, angel sharks, and schools of colorful fish. There are dive centers with dives for all levels, including introductory sessions for beginners. In fact, in 2011-2012 a submarine volcano erupted off the coast, adding a unique geological chapter to the history of the place.

Heritage and nature in the interior

The municipality has very different attractions from the coast:

The Cultural Park of El Julán, a few kilometers from La Restinga, preserves rock engravings from the bimbaches, the aborigines of El Hierro. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in Canary Islands and helps understand how the island's first inhabitants lived.

Additionally, the high area of the municipality is covered with Canarian pines with picnic areas, recreational zones, and camping areas. It is a good spot for a family picnic or to rest between hiking trails. hiking.

Hiking in El Pinar

The municipality offers trails that go from the summit to the sea through volcanic landscapes and forests. The paths connect the high zones with La Restinga, passing through lava slopes, isolated farmhouses, and viewpoints overlooking the Mar de Las Calmas.

You can also walk along the edge of the Tanganasoga volcano or traverse sections of the Camino de la Virgen, the longest processional route of Canary Islands that crosses the entire island.

Gastronomy in El Pinar

The restaurants along the port promenade of La Restinga they serve fresh fish of the day: wrapfish, vieja, salpa, and cabrilla, always with wrinkled potatoes y mojo. The fish broth is another local specialty perfect for the cooler days.

In the high area, the cuisine relies more on local produce: cheeses, El Hierro wine and the famous herreña cheesecake, a cottage cheese sweet that is the most typical dessert of the island.

How to get to El Pinar

From Valverde (the capital of El Hierro) you reach La Restinga in about 30 minutes via the HI-4. There are buses that connect both points, although with reduced frequency.

To get to El Hierro, there are flights from Tenerife Norte y Gran Canaria to the El Hierro airport, and a ferry from Los Cristianos (Tenerife) to the port of La Estaca.