One of the remotest of all the paradors, a modern white-painted building by a black lava beach on the smallest, least visited of the Canary Islands. It stands in large gardens with coconut palms and dragon trees, at the end of a 12-kilometre track. All bedrooms face the sea. A previous visitor was 'delighted' to find it in the Guide. 'Our pleasant room had a small, comfortable balcony. Snacks and light dishes are served in the bar and veranda all day; welcome if you have treated yourself to lunch at one of the fishing villages.' 'One feels as though one has come to the end of the world,' said another nominator. 'At dinner, a brave attempt is made to provide local dishes [poultry and cheese soup; fish; sea urchins, etc]. Excellent breakfasts: sausage, bacon and fried eggs every day. Friendly service. How they do it all in such an isolated place is a mystery. We found the local wines unreliable, but the wine list has some good Tenerife and mainland wines.' A car is essential; 'some of the driving is quite mountainous, and a little daunting'. El Hierro's 'stunning views' are best seen from its seven purpose-built miradores. Expect frequent mists, and pounding waves during Atlantic storms.