Valverde, the only capital in the Canary Islands without a coast

Valverde is the capital of El Hierro and the only island capital that Canary Islands is not on the coast. The town is located almost 600 meters above sea level, with views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by a green midland landscape. It is small, quiet, and authentic: white houses, stone streets, and a pace of life that is hard to find on other islands.

However, the municipality does have a coast: on its eastern slope are the Port of La Estaca (the entry point to the island by sea), the El Hierro airport and natural pools like Tamaduste y Charco Manso. Thanks to the CanariasLife webcam in Timijiraque , you can watch live the sea state and the conditions near the port.

Valverde Center

The center of the town has the charm of a miniature capital. The Church of Our Lady of the Conception, from the 18th century, presides over the main square. The City Council is a good example of traditional Herreño architecture.

In addition, the Municipal Market is a must-stop to learn about the island's products: Herreño cheese (a mix of goat, sheep, and cow's milk), tropical fruits, wine with Appellation of Origin El Hierro and the famous herreña cheesecake, the most typical sweet.

In fact, everything can be explored on foot in a short time. The charm of Valverde is in its atmosphere, not in its size.

Natural pools: Tamaduste and Charco Manso

On the coast of the municipality, there are two of the best natural pools from El Hierro:

Tamaduste is a large and protected puddle from the waves, surrounded by houses and with a family-friendly environment. It is the most popular bathing spot in Valverde and perfect for spending the morning.

Charco Manso, to the north, is wilder and more isolated. Its volcanic rock pools fill with water from the Atlantic, and the surroundings are spectacular. However, it's best to go when the sea is calm.

The Garoé Tree

In the municipality of Valverde is the Garoé Tree, a sacred linden tree for the bimbaches (the indigenous people of El Hierro). According to tradition, this tree condensed water from the mist in its leaves and fed a spring that was the island's main source of water.

The current specimen is a replica of the original, but the site retains the interpretation center and the spring. It is a short visit but filled with meaning, connecting to the island’s oldest history.

Pozo de las Calcosas

To the north of the municipality, the Pozo de las Calcosas is a small cluster of traditional houses with thatched roofs, built next to some natural pools. You descend by a path among cliffs, and the place conveys a sense of isolation and authenticity that is hard to surpass. It's one of the most photographed spots in El Hierro.

Hiking in Valverde

From the town, there are trails that traverse the laurisilva of the northern slope, the lava fields, and the natural viewpoints. The municipality is part of the Biosphere Reserve of El Hierro, so the ecological richness is notable.

The route that goes down from Valverde to the Port of La Estaca via the ancient royal road offers views of the eastern coast. Additionally, from the municipality, there is easy access to other trails on the island, including the Camino de la Virgen.

Gastronomy in Valverde

Herreño cuisine is best enjoyed in the taverns and restaurants of the town. The cheese broth (soup with melted herreño cheese), the gofio escaldado, the wrinkled potatoes with mojo and the fresh fish are the most representative dishes. The herreña cheesecake is the must-have dessert.

The wines from El Hierro, made from native varieties in high-altitude vineyards, accompany any meal. The Municipal Market of Valverde is the best place to buy local products.

How to get to Valverde

The El Hierro airport is in the municipality of Valverde, about 10 minutes from the town. There are flights from Tenerife Norte y Gran Canaria. The Port of La Estaca, also in the municipality, receiving the ferry from Los Cristianos (Tenerife).

From the port to the town, it takes about 15 minutes by car along the HI-1. There are buses, although with limited frequency. To get to El Hierro: El Hierro airport.