Situated in the north of El Hierro at 645 meters above sea level, the La Pea Viewpoint presents the most

magnificent panorama in the island. The seemingly endless seascape and is a reminder that there is so much to see
in this world. From this vantage point set on a towering cliff overshadowing parts of the valley village, one is bound
to feel like a speck of sand in the vast shoreline.

Unlike other viewpoints, visitors dont have to look far and beyond to see an assembly of beauty. Thanks to its
legendary architect, the mirador itself is a sight to behold. While it stands out, it also blends well with its
surroundings like the bright moon in a sea of stars. At La Pea Viewpoint, travelers dont just look at tourist
attractions they are standing on one.

The Perfect Landscape Canvas

A perfect balance between architecture, art, and nature, such is the trademark of the legendary Csar Manrique.
The renowned artist and architect, has created many architectural jewels in his home island of Lanzarote that
helped launch its tourism campaign. His idea of art in nature and nature in art eventually landed on the shores of
El Hierro.

In search of a new landscape canvas, he found his way up a bare cliff in Guarazoca. It was secluded yet out in the
open. Most importantly, it had the most panoramic views the island could offer. As such, it became the venue for
his next showpiece.

By 1989, the La Pea Viewpoint sat proudly on the cliff and opened its door to the public. Although exposed, its
stone and wood structure blended with nature. The work of art and the spectacular views it offers has since
become one of El Hierros top tourist spots.
 WHY GO UP THERE
To witness the best of El Hierro and its untouched beauty, travelers must head up north to Valverde and visit the
mirador. Upon arrival, a stunning scenery assaults the senses. Welcoming the guests is a marvelous garden housing
an array of plants native to the Canaries. If that is not enough, then there are the Juniper trees. These gnarled trees
bent and shaped by trade winds are part of the natural wonders of the island.

Csar Manrique designed La Pea Viewpoint featuring traditional El Hierro architecture with a twist. Cobblestone
and rock bricks exterior infuse the structure to its surrounding while glass panel enclosings add a contemporary
touch.

The glass door opens to a wooden staircase that leads to a fabulous restaurant. However, it is not only the great
food that has attracted a multitude of people. Glass windows offer a spectacular scenery that complements the
gastronomic experience. Cesar is a genius of arts, but theres no better artist than nature itself. And the real
masterpieces in the viewpoint is the natural wonders that encompass it.

From the vast deep blue sea, the towering cliff of Rosco de Tibataje rises to the sky protecting valley. On one side of
the mirador, a stunning view of natures creation, the El Golfo valley stirs the soul of onlookers. Formed by violent
eruptions millions of years ago, the beauty of the sculpted landscape can only be seen in all its magnificence from
the viewpoint.

On another side of the mirador, the Rocks of Salmor (Roques de Salmor) curiously peeks out from the ocean.
Because of its peculiar form, some have poetically likened these rocks to beads of necklace dropped into the sea.
While mesmerizing guests with its unnatural beauty, it is also home to seabirds and the giant lizards of El Hierro.
 Visiting La pena Viewpoint

La Pea Viewpoint is open daily from 9:00 am to 10:30 pm and there is no admission charge.

Going to the mirador is a captivating experience that often leaves people in awe. Only God knows how many times
His name was called at the moment when guests first set their eyes on the spectacular natural canvas. To take the
experience further up a notch:

Bring binoculars to treat the eyes to more astonishing sights in and around the viewpoint.

Wait for the sunset and watch the sun plunge into the sea as the sky turns nuclear with orange to red hues.

Look at the seemingly suicidal goats walking and hopping along the cliff ledges. Fret not, they never fall.

The best way to reach La Pea Viewpoint is by car. At the moment, the islands public transportation system does
not serve the western part. While some accommodations offer their services, there are also plenty of car hires in the
busy towns in El Hierro.
 Hunngry?
Dining in the Restaurante El Mirador de La Pea is worth every cent. They have an extensive menu of Canarian
dishes, and most ingredients are local produce. Their best-sellers such as caldo de huevo (egg soup), quesadilla,
vegetable soup, chicken stroganoff, smoked cheese with honey, and potatoes with mojo sauce are best paired with
a local La Frontera wine. For the last course of the meal, try bienmesabe (made with eggs, almonds, lemon, and
sugar) with vanilla ice cream, helado cremoso de frutas, or the local cheese cake.

Another must-try is their coffee. In fact, out of everything served, coffee is the most popular. Guests can savor its
aromatic flavor while soaking in the fantastic view.

A Day well spent

La Pea Viewpoint is a magical place where the sight of nature can heal hearts and minds. It is a place where one
can find peace and experience the harmony between man and nature. Amidst the sights of the valley of El Golfo,
cheer on strangers as they prepare to base jump from the cliff. Sip coffee and let the eyes drift from one natural
wonder to another.

The magnificence of El Hierro and the valley has been there for millennia, and all it took was one genius to set the
stage from where one can stand and experience the magical experience. A day spent here may end, but the
captivating story told in sights is forever etched into the minds of its visitors.
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