Mencáfete Reserve

The Monteverde and laurel forest of El Hierro

The Mancáfete Integral Nature Reserve is in the west of the island of El Hierro, inside Frontera Rural Park and close to Sabinosa. The secrets and treasures hidden here make it a special place for nature lovers: from species in danger of extinction such as the local 'cabezón herreño' (a striking purple plant) to the damp juniper and Monteverde forests. The caves hidden among the laurel trees are home to bats and wild cats.

Paths, trails and a viewpoint to fully enjoy nature

Among the vegetation growing along this steep area in El Hierro you will find the Mencáfete Spring, which brought water to the residents of Sabinosa in times gone by. Two walks with quite a steep climb cross through the nature reserve and allow visitors the opportunity to really get up close to the nature in the area. Another way to enjoy it is from the Bascos viewpoint, which gives a great panoramic view of the Mencáfete Integral Nature Reserve.

Height

260 m

Flora interest

Catering

Parking

Trekking routes

Wildlife interest

La Frontera

Go to web site

Reserva de Mencáfete Espacios naturales de El Hierro

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.).