Attractions and Places to Visit in Fuerteventura
The Canary Islands form part of Macaronesia, a group of archipelagos situated in the North Atlantic, close to the African continent. According to Greek mythology, these “happy or blessed islands” (translation of the term Macarconesia) were resting places for dead heroes due to their unique beauty and extraordinary climate. Thus, the archipelago was already considered a paradise on Earth by one of the civilizations which has contributed most to the history of humanity. And this says a lot of them.
Fuerteventura is the second largest island of the canary archipelago, and it offers you very picturesque landscapes, the perfect background for the perfect holiday.
Come across, for example, the mythical Tindaya Mountain, to which the aborigines attributed magical properties, and where, still today, you can see many vestiges of older settlers.
Fuerteventura is also characterized by its long rolling plains, filled with mills, where gofio is produced (the toasted cereal flour that still today is an indispensable ingredient in many exquisite islander dishes).
Fuerteventura has 13 protected areas. This island is considered exotic due to its lush palm trees, tarajales and its aloe vera, with which many cosmetic products and crafts are produced, with proven benefits for the skin
Here you can walk the trails between exotic volcanic cones, dive on the priceless seabed, or even windsurf a famous sport in this region due to the strong wind and great waves. Windsurf world’s championship is hosted in Fuerteventura.
There are many Attractions inviting tourists to discover different aspects of the Island’s landscape and culture
The entire island has Unesco biosphere reserve status, from the cliffs of the Atlantic-battered west coast to the gentle sand dunes of the east, where visitors enjoy some of Europe’s longest beaches. The Moroccan coast lies 60 miles away, and a combination of low rainfall and cooling trade winds keep the climate near perfect.
While the west coast is undeniably gorgeous, with windswept Cofete and black-sand beach of Ajuy, the east coast has Fuerteventura’s most user-friendly beaches: long sandy stretches, secluded coves and quiet bays that lure – alongside those wanting to lounge – divers, snorkelers and watersports fans.
Carefully controlled tourism development has resulted in just three main tourist hubs – Corralejo in the north, Caleta de Fuste on the east coast and Jandia to the south – leaving much of the island with its original character and way of life mainly intact.
The old town still feels atmospheric and there is a good craft market at the Campanaro shopping centre on Thursday and Sunday mornings, but Corralejo’s must-see attraction is the Grandes Playa, seven miles of sand dunes that are part of the Natural Park of Corralejo.
West of Corralejo is the relatively undeveloped fishing village of Cotillo, with its old harbour, Fortaleza del Tostón fort and sunset views. A few miles away is the lighthouse, from which self-guided walking trails explore the lagoons and beaches.
Cotillo and Corralejo are both surfer favourites, while cyclists can pedal the scenic 15-mile trail between the two.Halfway along the east coast and just five miles from the airport is Caleta, which bustles with hotels, bars and restaurants. Nearby sights include the working salt pans of Salinas del Carmen and the starkly beautiful landscape and stone structures of La Atalayita at Pozo Negro, built by the Maho people 600 years ago.
Further south, Jandia’s resorts are a big seller. Families particularly like the beaches and proximity to Oasis Park, which has everything from camel safaris and play zones to Europe’s largest cactus garden. Day trips include Las Playitas’ unusual lighthouse Faro de la Entallada at the island’s closest point to Africa, the lighthouse at Punta de Jandia and the old town centre of Morro Jable.
Inland Fuerteventura is another world – one of volcanoes, caves, arid grasslands, lime kilns, sand dunes and the impressive Mount Tindaya (pictured above). The native aloe plant thrives and visitors will find aloe vera products at every turn.
For walkers, centuries-old paths offer views over dunes and mountains, and the chance to spot camels, donkeys or Barbary ground squirrels. Plans are afoot to create a 100-mile north-south walking trail. Birdwatchers will find a wealth of wildlife and there are plans to reintroduce loggerhead turtles to the west coast.
The former capital of Betancuria, reached on winding mountain roads via the Morro Velosa viewpoint, is a highlight. Home to Iglesia Santa Maria, one of the oldest churches in the Canaries, it also has an archaeological museum, the excellent Casa Santa Maria visitor centre and award-winning Casa Santa Maria restaurant.
Another jewel is the village of La Oliva, near Corralejo. Its manor house La Casa de los Coroneles (pictured below) was the former headquarters of local ‘colonels’ who ruled the island in the 18th century.
An excellent dramatised tour, The Colonels’ Route, on Tuesday and Friday mornings, involves character guides re-enacting the area’s history via a father-daughter dispute over her upcoming marriage. The tour also visits Casa Mane Art Centre and a traditional market.
