Embark on a getaway to Fuerteventura: Unveil the Hidden Gems of the Island
Fuerteventura, the enchanting island paradise, is the second largest among the Canary Islands and holds the prestigious title of Biosphere Reserve. Delight in the vastness of its volcanic terrain and the unspoiled beauty of its beaches. Immerse yourself in the vibrant multicultural ambiance and encounter a rich variety of flora in Lajares. Unveil the awe-inspiring wonders of the Corralejo Sand Dunes Nature Park, a must-see destination on the island. Embark on a journey through time in the historical ancient capital, Betancuria, or wander through the picturesque streets of El Cotillo, an exquisite fishing village, where you can savor the local cuisine and witness breathtaking sunsets.
Isla de Lobos
Isla de Lobos, a small island covering 4.5 square kilometers, sits opposite Corralejo and gets its name from its previous monk seal colony. Currently, it is managed as a nature reserve by the Ministry of Environment. Access is limited to holders of a special permit, granting up to 4 hours to discover its marvels. Overnight stays on Isla de Lobos are strictly prohibited.
Betancuria
Established in 1404, this island capital stands as the first of its kind. Take a leisurely stroll through its streets and immerse yourself in its rich heritage, acknowledged as a Historic-Artistic Grouping Site. Transport yourself back in time as you absorb every intricate detail of the ancient architecture that adorns the cityscape.
Corralejo Dunes Natural Park
The Corralejo Natural Park in northern Fuerteventura is a must-see attraction, featuring expansive dunes and endless sandy beaches. It has significantly contributed to the local tourism industry. Located opposite Lanzarote, a quick 20-minute ferry ride allows easy access. Adjacent to it, Lobos Island is a haven for diverse wildlife and plant species, providing a captivating experience.
Calderón Hondo
A meticulously preserved volcano that features a 70-meter-deep crater. The 5-kilometer circular hiking trail begins and ends in Lajares, La Oliva, taking around an hour to complete. Along the route, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of northern Fuerteventura, southern Lanzarote, and the rugged malpaís (badlands) sculpted by the volcano's eruption.
Experience the allure of Fuerteventura's stunning beaches
Fuerteventura is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, boasting a variety of beautiful beaches to suit every preference, from expansive sandy stretches to secluded coves. Whether you seek relaxation or thrilling water sports, Fuerteventura's beaches promise an unforgettable experience.
Costa Calma
The picturesque beach of Costa Calma, located in the southern part of Fuerteventura near the village of La Lajita, offers a delightful retreat. Stretching for 2 kilometers, this popular tourist destination features pristine white sands and invigorating turquoise waters. Its idyllic shoreline beckons visitors to stroll along a serene promenade, providing breathtaking views of the coastline adorned with ochre mountains, gently shaped by erosion.
Cofete
Cofete, located in the north of the Jandía peninsula in southern Fuerteventura, is hailed as one of the wildest beaches in the Canary Islands. With limited urban development and expansive dimensions, it exudes a complete sense of freedom. Boasting endless golden sand and turbulent waters, Cofete spans 12 kilometers, devoid of buildings and paved roads.
Sotavento
Fuerteventura's Sotavento coast comprises five beaches (La Barca, Risco del Paso, Mirador, Malnombre, and Los Canarios), accessible during low tide. It offers an extensive expanse of white sand, caressed by clear, turquoise waters. One of these beaches features a shallow lagoon formed by a sandbar, perfect for beginners attempting windsurfing.
La Concha
Situated in the northwest of Fuerteventura, the beaches of the charming fishing village of El Cotillo unfold like a sequence of pristine white sand coves embraced by tranquil turquoise waters. The village's proximity offers a unique opportunity to relish a majestic sunset from a terrace, witnessing the sky transform from ochre to violet in a matter of minutes.
Great beaches in Corralejo
In the northeast of Fuerteventura, near the popular tourist hub of Corralejo, lies the magnificent Corralejo Great Beaches. Stretching for nine kilometers, these pristine beaches are adorned by the Corralejo Dunes, the largest of their kind in the Canary Islands. Here, the coastline is embraced by turquoise waters, while the shores are adorned with jable sand—a natural formation of white sand created through the erosion of seashells.
The cultural legacy of the island
Iglesia Catedral de Santa María de Betancuria
Located in Betancuria, the historic town of Fuerteventura, this 17th-century cathedral is a significant religious landmark. With stunning architecture and artistic masterpieces, including a unique wooden altar, it is a testament to the island's cultural heritage.
Tindaya Mountain
This mountain holds great cultural and spiritual importance to the indigenous people of Fuerteventura, enveloped in a tapestry of legends and tales. Adorned with enigmatic ancient carvings and inscriptions that remain a mystery, it is revered as a sacred site.
Casa de los Coroneles
Situated in La Oliva, this 18th-century edifice once served as the dwelling for the island's military governors, referred to as "coroneles." Today, the building has been transformed into a cultural center and museum, offering a captivating journey through the history and architectural heritage of the island.
Biosphere Reserve
In May 2009, UNESCO designated Fuerteventura as a Biosphere Reserve. With a vast area of 352,813 hectares, it is the largest reserve in the Canary Islands.
Fuerteventura boasts 13 natural environments classified as places of special interest, along with 9 reserves dedicated to the protection of birds. The island encompasses diverse ecosystems, ranging from desert and semi-desert landscapes to coastal and marine habitats.
The island's natural, marine, cultural, ethnological, environmental, and geological values played a pivotal role in earning its Biosphere Reserve status. This recognition reflects Fuerteventura's commitment to renewable energy, effective water management, and sustainable practices in fishing and hunting.
Being the oldest of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura possesses extensive natural wealth arising from its aridity and the presence of a diverse marine environment. The island's distinctive character is reflected in its rich cultural heritage, steeped in customs and traditions.
Gastronomy
When it comes to culinary delights in Fuerteventura, one standout is the renowned "Queso Majorero" cheese, which holds one of the three Controlled Designation of Origin titles in the Canary Islands. This traditional delicacy takes pride of place on the archipelago, particularly in Fuerteventura.
Benefitting from the splendid climate of the Canary Islands, the region is ideal for cultivating an array of fruits and vegetables, many of which are protected under Controlled Designation of Origin. A notable example is the ancient local potatoes, including the highly regarded black variety.
The mild Canarian climate also nurtures the growth of exotic fruits like papaya, mango, pineapple, avocado, and, of course, the beloved local bananas. These unique bananas have even earned European recognition as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI).
Water Sports
Windsurfing and kitesurfing reign as the most sought-after water sports in Fuerteventura. Enthusiasts, both amateurs and professionals, flock to the island to relish its unparalleled conditions and ride the waves, challenging the wind throughout the year. It's a dream come true for those yearning to experience the thrill of hopping on a board and venturing into the sea.
But the adventure doesn't stop there. Fuerteventura is a haven for adrenaline junkies, offering a plethora of activities such as trekking, climbing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, paddle surfing, wing foiling, and numerous other sports. This active paradise has something to satisfy every adventure seeker's desires.