On the northern coast of El Hierro, where cliffs meet the ocean, a dark building suddenly emerges, as if it has grown straight out of volcanic rock. This is Hotel Puntagrande—a place that has long become legendary among travelers seeking something truly unique. Its walls, weathered by many storms, seem to invite guests to forget the bustle of daily life and dissolve into the sound of the waves.
In the tiny village of Las Puntas, in the municipality of Frontera, this hotel has been officially recognized as the smallest in the world since 1987. But it’s more than its size that makes it special. Here, every guest enters an atmosphere where time seems to stand still and the ocean becomes the main character of each day.
Living on the edge
Inside the hotel, there’s a unique ambiance. Guests feel as if they’ve boarded an old ship, forever moored to the cliffs. Waves crash against the rocks, and outside the windows—the endless Atlantic Ocean. There are no televisions in the rooms, and that’s intentional: guests are encouraged to truly disconnect from the outside world and feel a part of nature.
Every morning begins with sunrise over the water, and evenings bring sunsets you’ll never forget. The windows open directly onto the ocean, making the horizon seem almost within reach. Here, it’s easy to lose track of time and simply listen as the wind plays with the waves.
A family story
Since 2018, the Nahmias family, who arrived here from Italy, has been looking after the hotel. They have breathed new life into Puntagrande, preserving its maritime spirit and focusing on sustainability. Here, every guest feels not just like a visitor, but part of a small family. The hotel’s motto is simple: arrive as a tourist, leave as a friend.
The hotel has only four rooms and one cozy suite. Interiors are decorated with natural materials, and a nautical theme runs through every detail. The atmosphere invites unhurried conversations and contemplation of nature.
Details and traditions
In the lounge and restaurant, you’ll find an unusual collection: ship registration plates from around the world hang on the walls, and a genuine 19th-century diving suit stands in the corner. These features are a reminder that the Canary Islands have always been an important stop on maritime routes.
A special highlight is Club del Puro, where you can sample rare cigars and drinks. Connoisseurs and enthusiasts gather here to enjoy the aromas and flavors in a relaxed setting, share impressions, and simply unwind.
Recognition and awards
Over the years, Puntagrande has received numerous awards. In 2025, the hotel was honored with the prestigious Llave Michelin for authenticity and outstanding service. It also holds the DCA – Dream & Charme; Assurance certificate, confirming its commitment to sustainability and luxurious hospitality. In 1991, the hotel was awarded the Silver Medal for its contribution to tourism by the Canary Islands government, and since 2018, the building has been recognized as a cultural heritage site (BIC).
A Journey Through Time
The building’s history dates back to the 19th century, when a warehouse was built here to store wine, figs, almonds, spirits, and water from the famous Pozo de la Salud well. The water from this well was believed to have healing properties and was even declared of public benefit in 1949. Later, port equipment appeared here, and the building served various purposes: it was a nightclub, then a restaurant, until it became a hotel in 1987. Architect José Luis Jiménez Saavedra restored it, preserving the lava stone walls and wooden beams to ensure the building blended with the rugged landscape.
Today, Hotel Puntagrande isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an entire world where everyone can find something special. Here, there’s no rush—only the ocean, the wind, and a feeling of being at the edge of the earth.
