Shane Gray, a well known figure amongst the Irish diving community has introduced us to the wonderful world of El Hierro. The smallest, most remote and least visited of the Canary Islands, El Hierro is 70 miles from Tenerife on the Western edge of the Canarian archipelago. A perfect destination for both divers and walkers seeking spectacular scenery, breathtaking views, superb diving and a touch of adventure. This is a magical island that can take you back in time.
The currents that fringe the outer edge of the archipelago bring warmer waters to El Hierro than to the other islands, and the sea temperatures range from 21-24°C all year round. These warm currents promote greater growth underwater and are home to temperate and tropical sea life alike. The variety and abundance of fish is quite remarkable. The sea has a very deep blue hue, and visibility is generally 30m or more. November is the time to go as the sea is around 24°C and the air temperature is a balmy 25-28°C.
Situated in “El Mar de Las Calmas” or the tranquil sea, sheltered as it is by dramatic cliffs from the prevailing NE winds, the Marine Reserve provides an abundance of colourful marine life in a beautiful setting. A divers’ paradise.
Irish owned and run by a welcoming Spanish couple, Fernando and Silvia. It is perfectly placed on the seafront, just 50m from the dive boat moored in the small marina. There are 27 dive sites within 10 minutes of the centre by RIB ride.
Shane leads all the walks on El Hierro. Although only 25 miles from end to end, it is nevertheless, 5,000ft high, so the diversity of scenery is breathtaking. The plateau with it's green fields, stone walls, sheep, cattle, and goats is more reminiscent of Connemara, Ireland, than a semi-tropical island. Half an hour’s drive away, down through the pine forests and vineyards is the coastal plain where the sun shines all year round, and the pineapple, papaya, and banana plantations flourish.
On arrival at Tenerife Airport, you will be met and escorted to Hotel Andrea's (self catering) in Los Cristianos where you will stay overnight. Your guide will join you the following morning for the transfer by fast ferry to the Island of El Hierro. At the island’s southern tip, in the tiny fishing village of La Restinga, you will stay in a lovely seafront apartment. This perfect retreat is barely 3 minutes walk along the front from the dive centre, and just two minutes along the prom to the friendly “El Bar”, the most southerly bar in Europe!
Your final day will be spent on Tenerife where you can explore either on foot, or take a scenic drive to visit the National Park; here you can walk or ride a cable car almost to the summit of the spectacular Mount Teide, which at 12,5000ft, is Spain's highest mountain. Alternatively guests can choose to laze on the beach after their week of exercise!
Please check our latest availability and price schedule here
Includes transfers, ferries, apartment accommodation, 10 dives with tanks, air & weights or guided walk.
The season runs from October – May, excluding December and January. The departure day is Saturday, with your first and last night spent on Tenerife and 5 nights on El Hierro.
SPRING & AUTUMN
Spring: 29 Jan, 27 Feb, 20 Mar, 10 Apr, 27 Apr (Tues / Tues to La Palma; big fiesta “The Dressing of the crosses” on the final day), 8 May (to La Gomera), 15 May (limited availability)
Autumn: 9 Oct, 16 Oct, 30 Oct, 6 Nov
Minimum group size 4. Maximum group size 22.
We can arrange flights departing from the UK to Tenerife, subject to availability.