Topographical Features of El Hierro

Central Ridge and Volcanic Peaks

El Hierro’s landscape is characterized by a central ridge running northeast to southwest, culminating in the Malpaso Peak at 27.7344°N, 18.0239°W, with an elevation of 1,501 meters. This ridge divides the island into distinct regions. The northern slope features steep escarpments and deep ravines, such as the Golfo Valley, formed by massive landslides and erosion. These features illustrate the island’s volcanic origins and subsequent erosional processes. In contrast, the southern slope is less steep, showing a gradual descent towards the coast.

Coastal Periphery and Ravine Networks

El Hierro’s coastal periphery is rugged and rocky, especially on the northern coast, which has high cliffs. The southern coast has a gentler relief with broader coastal plains. The island’s intricate network of ravines, more pronounced in the north, showcases its dynamic geological activity. Valleys like El Golfo are fertile and formed by converging ravines, reflecting El Hierro’s diverse topography from the central volcanic ridge to the coastal areas. This diversity contributes to the island’s unique geographical identity.

Fig1. Illustration of the topography of the island of El Hierro

Fig2. 3D topography rendering of the island of El Hierro