The best cycling routes in El Hierro
4.4
(69)
426
riders
37
rides
Touring cycling in El Hierro offers a diverse landscape, transitioning from rugged volcanic fields to lush cloud and pine forests. The island's volcanic origins have created dramatic scenery, including cliffs, lava flows, and unique geological formations. Cyclists can navigate varied terrain, from challenging ascents to sweeping roads, often with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. This UNESCO Geopark provides a tranquil environment with low traffic, ideal for immersive cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes in El Hierro
- The most popular touring cycling route is Montañita del Guachinche de Arriba, Raya de Binto, Mirador El Julan — route through El Hierro, a difficult 21.6 miles (34.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 38 minutes to complete. This route features significant elevation gain and diverse volcanic landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is From the port to Timijiraque — circular by El Hierro, a difficult 18.2 miles (29.3 km) path. It includes substantial climbs and offers coastal views as it traverses the island's terrain.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Valverde and Mirador de la Peña Loop, a 17.0 miles (27.3 km) trail leading through the island's interior and past viewpoints, often completed in about 2 hours 34 minutes.
- Touring cycling in El Hierro is defined by volcanic landscapes, cloud forests, and dramatic coastal cliffs. The network offers options for moderate to difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in El Hierro are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 280 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore El Hierro's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.7
(3)
7
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
29.3km
02:35
1,100m
1,100m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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1
riders
61.5km
04:52
1,550m
1,550m
This difficult 38.2-mile touring cycling route from Punta la Dehesa to Mirador El Julán offers panoramic views and volcanic landscapes.
4.0
(1)
1
riders
27.3km
02:34
1,010m
1,010m
This difficult 17.0-mile touring bicycle loop in El Hierro offers 3316 feet of climbing and stunning views from Mirador de la Peña.
5.0
(3)
36
riders
62.2km
04:45
1,580m
1,580m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
La Dehesa is not simply a field with cows. It is one of the most important historical territories of El Hierro and for centuries has been used communally by the island's inhabitants. While much of Europe divided land among owners, here a huge shared space for grazing was maintained. Generations of shepherds from El Hierro with sheep, goats, cows, and horses have passed through these plains. The wind, the fog, and the isolation have shaped both the landscape and the way of life of those who worked here. Very close by is also the Sanctuary of the Virgen de los Reyes, the patron saint of El Hierro. Every four years, the famous Bajada de la Virgen is celebrated, one of the most important traditions in the Canary Islands. The image travels around the island accompanied by thousands of people, following paths that precisely cross part of La Dehesa. The curious thing is the contrast: on one side appear the junipers twisted by the wind and the pastures; on the other, the lava fields that fall towards the Atlantic. Few places show the two souls of El Hierro so well: the volcanic and the pastoral.
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The landscape that extends towards Punta de la Sal is formed by ancient lava flows that descended from the eruptive centers in the west of El Hierro. Although many of these eruptions are prehistoric and do not have an exact known date, they were what built much of this coast. What today appears as an immense expanse of black rock was once lava slowly advancing towards the Atlantic. Erosion has done the rest, creating one of the most spectacular and best-preserved volcanic landscapes in the Canary Islands.
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Very close to the Mirador de Lomo Negro is El Sabinar, probably the most emblematic landscape of El Hierro. Here grow the famous "sabinas" (juniper trees), trees shaped for decades by the trade winds into twisted forms that seem impossible. The curious thing is that none are twisted by chance. The constant wind has slowly bent the trunks over generations, creating one of the most spectacular examples of nature's adaptation in the Canary Islands. The area also has a very special atmosphere: low fog, open pastures, stone walls, free-roaming livestock, and enormous views towards the Atlantic. There are days when it looks more like Ireland or Scotland than a volcanic island. It is one of those places where it is worth getting off your bike, walking for a few minutes, and simply observing. The sabinas have been resisting for centuries the exact same wind that is hitting your face at that moment.
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The chapel of the island's patron saint. She is said to have provided rainwater during droughts.
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Emblematic hermitage
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Nice, quiet place. Good starting point for some hikes.
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A hermitage was built near the Caracol, which houses the image and the shepherds on cold and humid nights. On Monday, April 25, 1577, the first mass was celebrated and sung in the Sanctuary of El Hierro, the current Insular Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Kings. Since then, an annual festival has been celebrated in honor of the Virgin of the Kings on April 25, a festival that continues to be celebrated to this day under the name of the Festival of the Shepherds.
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The building is a jewel designed by César Manrique, the great Canarian architect who dedicated his life to creating organic spaces. At La Peña, Manrique used numerous plants, large windows and masonry ceilings to create a welcoming and fresh atmosphere. Inside, visitors can enjoy the exclusive Mirador de La Peña Restaurant, with its extensive menu of Canarian dishes made with products such as tropical pineapple and the excellent fresh fish produced by this island, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall difficulty level for touring cycling routes in El Hierro?
Touring cycling in El Hierro is generally considered moderate to difficult. The island's diverse terrain includes significant elevation changes, with 24 out of 28 routes listed as difficult. These routes often feature substantial climbs and descents, making them suitable for cyclists seeking a challenge.
Are there any routes suitable for less experienced touring cyclists?
While most routes are challenging, there are a few options for less experienced touring cyclists. The komoot guide lists 4 routes as moderate. These routes still offer the island's unique scenery but with less extreme elevation gains, providing a good introduction to El Hierro's varied terrain.
How many touring cycling routes are available in El Hierro?
There are over 25 touring cycling routes available in El Hierro on komoot. These routes cover a wide range of the island's landscapes, from volcanic fields to lush forests, offering diverse experiences for touring cyclists.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling in El Hierro?
El Hierro offers a 'tiny continent' of landscapes. You can expect to cycle through rugged volcanic fields, lush cloud forests (laurisilva), and extensive pine forests. Routes often feature dramatic coastal cliffs, panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, and unique geological formations created by the island's volcanic past.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes on the island?
Yes, El Hierro offers several longer touring cycling routes. For example, the Malpaso and El Sabinar Loop Trail covers approximately 38 miles (61.5 km), and the La Llanía Trail – View of Roques de Salmor loop from San Andrés is about 37.6 miles (60.5 km). These routes provide extensive exploration of the island's interior and diverse ecosystems.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in El Hierro?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in El Hierro are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular From the port to Timijiraque — circular by El Hierro and the Valverde and Mirador de la Peña Loop, both offering comprehensive tours of specific areas.
What natural attractions can I discover along the touring cycling routes?
El Hierro's routes pass by numerous natural attractions. You can encounter the iconic wind-sculpted juniper trees at El Sabinar, explore paths over ancient lava flows, or witness the impressive El Golfo Valley. Many routes also offer views of dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations. Notable highlights include Malpaso Peak and Jinama Viewpoint.
Are there any unique viewpoints accessible by touring bike?
Absolutely. El Hierro is famous for its 'miradores' (viewpoints) that offer breathtaking panoramas. The Valverde and Mirador de la Peña Loop, for instance, takes you past the renowned Mirador de la Peña, designed by César Manrique, offering sweeping views over the El Golfo valley. Other notable viewpoints include Mirador de Bascos and those overlooking Las Playas.
Can I combine cycling with a refreshing swim in natural pools?
Yes, El Hierro's coastline, particularly in the El Golfo region, features natural swimming holes carved into volcanic rock. While not directly on every cycling route, many are easily accessible for a refreshing dip after your ride. Popular spots include Charco Azul, La Maceta, and Charco de los Sargos.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in El Hierro?
El Hierro boasts a mild climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for touring cycling regardless of the season. Daytime winter temperatures rarely drop below 15°C (59°F), ensuring comfortable conditions for exploring the island's routes throughout the year.
Is El Hierro a good destination for a peaceful cycling experience?
El Hierro is known for its tranquil and peaceful environment, making it an excellent choice for cyclists seeking a quiet experience. It's far less crowded than other Canary Islands, with minimal traffic, allowing for an immersive cycling journey where you can truly connect with nature.
What do other touring cyclists appreciate most about cycling in El Hierro?
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in El Hierro, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the island's diverse and dramatic landscapes, the peaceful environment with low traffic, and the challenging yet rewarding routes that offer stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and unique volcanic scenery.
What is the highest point I can reach on a touring bike in El Hierro?
The highest point on El Hierro is Pico de Malpaso, reaching approximately 1,501 meters (4,925 feet). Ascending Malpaso presents a significant cycling challenge but rewards riders with panoramic views of the entire island and, on clear days, neighboring islands. The Malpaso and El Sabinar Loop Trail is one route that takes you towards this peak.
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