Playa del Verodal (Red Sand Beach)

The most unusual beach in the Canary Islands — a beach of distinctive reddish-coloured sand at the foot of towering volcanic cliffs on El Hierro's north-west coast. The crimson hue of the sand comes from the high concentration of oxidised iron minerals in the volcanic rock that eroded to form the beach — the same geological processes that give the Martian landscape its red colour. The beach is approximately 200 metres long, composed of coarse reddish sand and pebbles, backed by a massive cliff wall rising hundreds of metres above. The setting is utterly wild and breathtaking. **Caution:** Playa del Verodal is exposed to the full force of the Atlantic swell — swimming here is extremely dangerous and is not recommended under any conditions. Strong currents and unpredictable large waves (olas de "mar de fondo") make this a beach for experienced surfers only, and even then only in specific conditions. The beach is reached via a paved road (HI-50) off the HI-5 main road, with a small car park above the beach. Access to the beach itself involves a short but steep path down. The area has no facilities — bring everything you need and take all rubbish with you. Despite (or perhaps because of) its wildness, Playa del Verodal is one of the most photographed locations on El Hierro and a must-visit for photographers and landscape enthusiasts.