27°45′21.47″ N, 18°6′14.84″ W. At these coordinates on the western tip of El Hierro, water with healing properties flows to the surface. Also known as Pozo de Sabinosa, this well has been one of the most popular places on the island for more than three centuries, and also one of the most magical.
You only need to take a look at its unique nature to see that El Hierro is truly an island with soul. Sacred trees such as the Garoé and waters beneficial to health spring up from it. This is the case of the Pozo de Sabinosa, better known as Pozo de La Salud, a spring born out of the need of thirsty people which eventually became an icon of the island due to its singular nature. It was declared a Public Utility Asset in 1949, although this fact is just another drop in this fascinating well.
he curious origin of the Pozo de La Salud
The island’s climate, with low rainfall, has historically posed a challenge for the local population, who have been forced to find ways to procure water in different eras. In 1702, after centuries of scarcity, the lord of El Hierro and 8th Count of La Gomera, Don Juan Bautista Herrera Ponte Ayala y Rojas, ordered the construction of the well in order to supply the area.
The excavation was completed two years later, in 1704, but not with the expected result. The water that sprang forth was cloudy and salty due to its volcanic origin, so it was quickly discarded for human consumption and used to quench the thirst of livestock. However, more than a few people tried it and soon noticed improvements in their health. Thus, the fame of the well gradually grew, with word spreading from mouth to mouth and island to island.
By the early 19th century several doctors and scientists, such as the pharmacist Santiago González Serrano, became interested in it and analysed its healing properties, a vital factor in the Canarian doctor Bartolomé Saurín y Celis declaring it mineral-medicinal water in 1843. This caused its popularity to skyrocket, and water from the well was even exported to places like Cuba and Puerto Rico.
A stroll through the Pozo de la Salud Spa Hotel
On the site of the old excavation a spa has now sprung up - the only one in the entire Canary Islands archipelago. Here, health and wellness take the form of all kinds of treatments and massages, salt baths, a spa area, a swimming pool, a solarium and, of course, a complete circuit of mineral-medicinal waters that reaches the bathtubs of the hotel’s 22 rooms.
As well as being a place of wellness and relaxation, the Pozo de la Salud Spa Hotel is also an excellent starting point for immersing yourself in some of the experiences and activities the island has to offer. Hiking enthusiasts, for example, can take different routes from here to places such as the Mencáfete Integral Nature Reserve, Tenaca mountain or the Bascos viewpoint. This area is also perfect for stargazing, and you can enjoy the local gastronomy at the restaurant located on the premises.
En route to Pozo de La Salud
The Pozo de La Salud is located in the western part of the island, about 25 kilometres from Valverde. The journey can be made by car or bus. To get there, head towards Sabinosa, the most isolated village on El Hierro, and also one of the most authentic. Strolling through its narrow streets is like travelling back in time. A unique experience, to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions, get to know the people and, naturally, discover the purest flavours of El Hierro.
It is also a must for lovers of photography, hiking and wine, as Sabinosa offers options for all of them, whether in the form of spectacular panoramic views, nature excursions or vineyards where excellent wines are grown.
The road route is also extremely pleasant. For the most part people take the HI-550, a picture-postcard road with an imposing view of the El Golfo valley on one side and the Atlantic on the other.
Other places on El Hierro to immerse oneself in a sea of calm,
Lush forests, volcanic beaches, viewpoints overlooking heavenly landscapes… El Hierro has perfect spots for finding tranquillity and connecting with oneself, but perhaps some of the most special ones are the natural pools. The island’s coastline hides all kinds of these pools: photogenic spots such as Charco Azul or Charco de Los Sargos, more family-friendly areas like the pools at La Caleta, and places with a mystical aura such as Tacorón. The only stressful part of the trip may be having to choose just one.