What you can’t miss in Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is the longest island in the whole Canary Islands Archipelago. A spectacular coast that traces an endless line of very characteristic beaches with white sand and turquoise waters. These amazing natural conditions make it almost obligatory to visit its beaches, coves and coastal sights. Although the island holds many more surprises inland that are also worth discovering.
Corralejo Dunes
The big beaches in the north-east of Fuerteventura have a very special bodyguard: the immense Corralejo dune field, an extensive area of mountains of sand moulded tirelessly by the wind, constantly creating new shapes. Walking barefoot over the dunes feeling the touch of tiny grains of sand on our skin, is an extremely relaxing exercise that rids us of stress.
Islote de Lobos
A paradise of dreamlike beaches, breaking up the volcanic landscape, and the most absolute peace just two kilometres from Fuerteventura. A little uninhabited isle that owes its name to the past presence of an important colony of sea lions and where archaeological ruins of a Roman settlement have been found. Spending a day in this natural park, home to several endemic life forms and different species of birds, is an experience that you won’t forget.
Las Playas de Jandía
Una línea infinita, blanca por su arena y turquesa por el agua que la baña, se escapa a nuestra vista. Solo la imaginación vislumbra el final. Son las interminables playas de Sotavento, en la península de Jandía, que acogen las zonas de baño más famosas de la isla. Aquí hay sitio para todos: familias que buscan aguas seguras para los niños, parejas que encuentran refugios de intimidad, grupos de amigos que se divierten… Y también para quienes observan cómodamente, en primera fila mientras toman el sol, todo un espectáculo de velas de mil colores revolotear al ritmo del viento. Son los windsurfistas, que encuentran en estas playas un lugar excepcional para hacer lo que más les gusta: volar sobre las olas.
Cuevas de Ajuy
When we step onto this extraordinary geological jewel on the Fuerteventura coast, we go back 70 million years to a point in time prior even to the formation of the island itself, to find ourselves on the oldest rocks in the Canary Islands. Fascinating, isn’t it? Well, there’s more. Next to the caves is a little fishing village, of the same name, where we can have some delicious fresh fish next to the beach of volcanic sand. With the most beautiful sunset as a backdrop.
Betancuria
The streets of the oldest town in the Canary Islands are pure history. Cobbled, with churches and shrines, an old convent, the square… They comprise a rich cultural and artistic heritage that have made it worthy of being declared an Historic Site. There are also some interesting museums, such as the Museum of Sacred Art or the Archaeology Museum. A highly enriching tour of this quiet town, founded by the Norman conqueror Jean de Béthencourt in 1404, connects us with its splendorous colonial past.
Montaña de Tindaya
As soon as it appears before our eyes, we understand why the island’s ancient settlers, the ‘majos’, considered it a magic spot and made it a sacred place of worship. They left a valuable legacy here that has been conserved right up to modern day: they drew footprints looking west on the stone. Monumental, beautiful, special… And when all the colours of the sunrise or sunset fall on it, it is purely inspirational. But, above all, it is still magical.
Cofete
On the leeward side of the peninsula of Jandía, we find one of Fuerteventura’s natural treasures. We get to this unspoiled beach along an earthen track that the ocean frequently splashes over, making the approximately 10-kilometre journey a little uncomfortable, but it is definitely worth it. As you come around one of the last bends, before the descent, a striking, wild landscape opens out below us: 14 kilometres of fine sand and waves, flanked by the mountains of Jandía, the highest on the island, in whose foothills we discover a surprise – the mysterious Casa Winter, a strange mansion with unconfirmed stories that place it as a Nazi operations centre and shelter during the II World War. Whether the legend is true or false, there is no doubt that Cofete is one of those settings where the word ‘freedom’ takes on its full meaning.
El Cotillo
It is one of the most visited places on the island due to its wonderful beaches, such as La Concha, and its excellent gastronomy. Its calm waters, thanks to being sheltered by the volcanic reef, make it a preferred spot for families. And after a relaxing day of sunshine and swimming in this crystal-clear water, what could be better than enjoying a beautiful sunset while savouring some delicious fresh products from Fuerteventura cuisine, such as fish, accompanied by the island’s famous cheeses? A real pleasure that you’d be pushed to beat.
