The Centro de Interpretación del Árbol Garoé in Tiñor introduces the story of El Hierro’s sacred tree and the way its leaves collected moisture from mist, known as horizontal rain. The original tree disappeared in 1610; a linden of the same kind was planted in its place in 1957. From the small interpretation center, a short path leads to the tree and water-collection pools. Go for the island’s history and the unusual water system, with time to read the information panels and take in the quiet surroundings.
The tree and its water
The Garoé is remembered as a sacred tree that helped sustain El Hierro’s early inhabitants, the Bimbaches, when water was scarce. Its leaves captured moisture from mist, a process known as horizontal rain. Water collected from the leaves and gathered in pools around the tree.
The original Garoé disappeared in 1610. A linden of the same kind was planted in 1957, and it is this replacement tree that stands at the site today. The interpretation center explains the tree’s place in the island’s history, including the story and sorrow associated with it.
Getting to the tree
The interpretation center is in Tiñor, and a short path leads from it to the tree and water-collection pools. The approach involves walking on a trail and steps, which can be damp, so sturdy shoes are a sensible choice.
The access road is partly unpaved and can be rough. Parking near the site is limited, so allow for that when planning your visit. Information panels explain the site, and staff can provide further context about the Garoé and its importance to El Hierro.
FAQ
Can you see the original Árbol Garoé?
No. The original tree disappeared in 1610. A linden of the same kind was planted in its place in 1957.
How was water collected from the tree?
Moisture from mist gathered on the leaves, a process known as horizontal rain, and water was collected in pools around the tree.
Is there a walk to reach the tree?
Yes. A short path leads from the interpretation center to the tree. The trail includes steps, which can be damp.
What is the access road like?
Part of the road is unpaved and can be rough. Parking near the site is limited.
