The natural pools of El Hierro are the heart and soul of the island. Do you know which ones to go to?
Of the eight islands in the Canary archipelago, El Hierro is the furthest island to the west. The island is small. It barely stretches to 269 square kilometres in area, but it is packed with attractions. El Hierro is a true natural paradise. In recognition of this, the island has been designated as a Biosphere Reserve. One of the greatest strengths of the island is its climate. The island experiences little rainfall and temperatures remain more or less constant at 24 degrees throughout the year. There are so many things to see and enjoy in El Hierro. Natural pools are just one of many attractions.
Discover Wonders
The natural pools in El Hierro are a product of thousands of years of erosion. The pools have been formed into intricate and varied shapes with the passage of time. There are many astonishing spots for visitors to discover wonders of the natural world whilst bathing in sheltered pools of water. El Hierro’s coastline is spectacular.
Charco Azul
The natural pool of Charco Azul is one of the most famous in El Hierro. It is located in the north of the island in the El Golfo Valley. Charco Azul is defined by a huge rock which acts as a barrier to the ocean. This natural formation allows bathers to enjoy clear and calm waters, accompanied by the sound of the ocean pushing this way and that in the distance. After a dip, visitors can sunbathe on a wooden solarium in the vicinity. Access to Charco Azul is available via a staircase.
Charco de Los Sargos
Charco de Los Sargos is a fantasy location close to the pools of La Maceta and four kilometres away from Charco Azul. The Charco de Los Sargos natural pools have turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming. The local environment is rugged, and the dark colours of the volcanic rock contrasts with the lighter tones of the sea and sky. Access to Charco de Los Sargos is available by well signposted roads.
Natural Pools of La Maceta
La Maceta, which is located in the north of El Hierro in the municipality of Frontera, contains a set of natural pools of different depths. Visitors can enjoy a quiet and comfortable swim. La Maceta is a dreamy location which offers an unforgettable experience. After bathing, visitors can lie in the sun. There is easy access to La Maceta via some stairs. La Maceta has good parking and a picnic area. Drinking water is available.
Charco Manso
The paths to Charco Manso are almost as beautiful as the natural pool itself. The route to the landmark is dotted with picóns, which is the local word for small piles of reddish rocks which were expelled from a volcano during an eruption. Charco Manso is located along a beautiful stretch of basalt coastline. The landform has natural arches, small caves, and holes over which the sea breaks and creates jets of water.
Tacorón
This natural pool is perfectly equipped for swimming. It is popular with locals and tourists alike. Tacorón is located near La Restinga in the southwest of El Hierro. It is close to the Mar De Las Calmas (which means calm seas in Spanish). Mar De Las Calmas contains one of the three Marine Reserves of the Canary Islands and is famous for having calm stretches of water for swimming.
Pozo de las Calcosas
Pozo de las Calcosas is a small natural bay created next to a cliff. It is located in the municipality of Valverde in the northeast of El Hierro. Besides its natural beauty, this area is famous for the small village close to the pools which contains a number of unusual high-roofed houses made with volcanic stone.
Tamaduste
The natural pool of Tamaduste is embedded in a village. It has crystalline waters which are well suited for swimming. At the bottom of this beautiful attraction is what is known as the “cave of the boat”, a mythical location where boats of the inhabitants of the sea are said to stop to rest.
