Ventejís

A natural, environmentally-rich landscape

The protected landscape of Ventejís, one of the most prized natural areas of El Hierro, lies within the municipal area of Valverde. The location is sacred to the Bimbaches – aboriginal people of El Hierro – because of the presence of a special Garoé tree. In this 1,143-hectare-wide rural landscape there are many dry-stone walls and buildings that typify the traditional El Hierro construction style.

The El Garoé tree, an historic example of sustainability

The Garoé was sacred to the Bimbaches partly because it condensed the moisture carried by the trade winds and could therefore be used as a source of water. The original tree was toppled by a hurricane in the 17th century and was replaced by a linden tree seen today. Tourists are welcomed to the site of the tree and to the Garoé Visitor Centre which includes an historic overview of the magical, local area.

Flora interest

Trekking routes

Valverde

Sustainability

- Never leave waste of any type lying around, including cigarette butts. Leftover food leads to a proliferation of rats and wild cats, which pose a serious threat to the fauna.
- Respect the animals. Do not bother them or feed them. If you see an injured specimen, you can call the emergency number: 112. Do not pick flowers or plants.
- Do not pick up or take away stones or any other item from the natural environment. And do not move them to pile them up into sadly famous 'towers'.
- Do not walk in areas where it is not allowed and respect the signposting along trails. Leaving the set paths causes damage to the environment and could also be dangerous for you and anyone with you.
- Do not light fires outside the permitted areas and be especially careful during the summer months.
- Try not to alter the peace of the environment with excessive noise (loud music, yelling, etc.).