Trails of El Hierro: the GR 131 and the Camino de la Virgen
The island of El Hierro, Biosphere Reserve, it is very well traversed on foot. It has a wide network of marked paths, but there is one that links its main landscapes from end to end: the GR 131, which largely follows the historic Camino de la Virgen.
The GR 131: the island from end to end
The GR 131 is a long-distance path of about 42 kilometers. It starts on the northeast coast, in Tamaduste and the Port of La Estaca, and ends at the Orchilla Lighthouse, at the southwestern tip of the island, next to the monument to the former Meridian Zero.
It is divided into four stages. Along the way, it passes through Valverde, traverses the summits, approaches Malpaso, the highest point on the island, and crosses pine forests, volcanic areas, and the Rural Park of Frontera until it reaches the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Kings, in La Dehesa.
The Camino de la Virgen
A large part of the GR 131 coincides with the Camino de la Virgen, the traditional route that connects the sanctuary of La Dehesa with Valverde. This is where the Bajada de la Virgen de los Reyes, the great festival of the island, takes place every four years. During the procession, the towns pass the image in fixed points called 'rayas', among dancers and traditional music.
Other trails on the island
- Coastal trails, leading to coves, pools, and natural swimming areas.
- Forest trails, through the fayal-brezal and the pine forests.
- Routes to El Sabinar and the Mirador de Bascos, in the west.
- Descents to the valley of El Golfo, like the Jinama trail.
Tips for walking in El Hierro
Before heading out, check the status of the trails, bring water and sun protection, and keep in mind that fog and wind can quickly change the weather at the summits. To see live conditions on the island, take a look at our webcams from Valverde or from the natural pools of La Maceta.