Typically, my annual holiday choice would always be a music festival. Therefore, choosing a package holiday to Fuerteventura was quite a change for me! The credit goes to my partner Chris, who thinks my idea of heaven (AKA a week in the mud at Glastonbury Festival) is his idea of hell! I will never give up my music festivals, but I now will also never go a year without a week in the sun. We hired a car (which I highly recommend as public transport is scarce in the more remote locations), and we managed to cover much of this beautiful island. In this blog, I will share some of our favourite spots.
El Cotillo
Located on the north-west coast of Fuerteventura, El Cotillo has a little bit of everything to offer. Having its origins as a small fishing village, it has retained its community feel despite growing larger over recent years. Within the town are plenty of cafes and bars to sit and watch the world go by.
Venturing just outside the town takes you to some of Fuerteventura most incredible beaches. At high tide, when we arrived, the rock-strewn sand dunes form little lagoons which make for perfect swimming. We returned later in the week at low tide, and it was equally as beautiful.
Corralejo Natural Park
Driving along the FV1 towards Corralejo, the vast sand dunes of Corralejo Natural Park are a sight to behold. There are many places to stop, but I recommend parking in one of the quieter bays. Although even the busy spots are beautiful, the more remote dune are even more so. You can see for miles with barely another human soul in sight.
Taking a walk down to the sea, you will find crystal clear ocean water. However, do watch out here as the tide can be quite strong. Also, be aware that the dunes are a hot spot for nude sunbathing. You will see lots of human-made stone windbreakers, and don’t be surprised to find some cheeky bare behinds in them!
Puertito De Los Molinos
This tiny village on the west coast is one of the most surreal locations we found on the island of Fuerteventura. It looks like the set of a natural disaster, where all the inhabitants were forced to flee and leave everything behind! Do not be fooled though, this is a small but thriving community, albeit a little rustic.
The deep black rocks and sand contrast strikingly with the azure blue sea and sky. Buildings hang precariously from the rock face, suspended above the bay. At the time we visited, the tide was in, but, when the tide is out, there are natural caves to explore.
Ajuy
Ajuy is another tiny harbour town and home to the oldest rock formation on the island. Here you will find the caves of Ajuy which are preserved as a place of geological interest.
The walk to see the caves is a steep climb and is not for those who are scared of heights! I happen to be terrified and so, unfortunately, I only made it to the top. To enter the caves, you need to then climb down the other side but it was far too windy and this contributed to my fear of heights. Also, the tide was in and to see the caves, it is best to visit when the tide is out. However, even making it as far as I did was rewarded with spectacular views. My mission next time is to come with adequate footwear and make it over the other side!
Betancuria
I love Betancuria, primarily because of the stunning mountain road you need to navigate to get to and from it. Chris and I stayed in Caleta de Fuste, which is on the east side of Fuerteventura (You can find my review of Caleta Gardens Apartments here). Therefore driving from there meant it was a very steep climb, with all the sheer drops on my side of the car. Needless to say, my shrieking kept Chris amused!
There are plenty of places to stop and take in the views. I recommend stopping at Mirador Corrales de Guize, where you can see the impressive bronze statues of the island’s natives Guize and Ayoze.
Betancuria was once the capital of Fuerteventura, until La Oliva and then later Perto De Rosario took its place. Betancuria is one of the most colourful of towns on the island; majestic lush green palm trees line the small streets. Its buildings and church, with their whitewashed walls, stand out against the backdrop of a clear blue sky.
Betancuria is the place to sample authentic Majorero culture and history. I highly recommend eating here, where you can try the traditional goat’s cheese and Canarian potatoes.
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[…] to Fuerteventura in May. We both love this island so much, there are so many wonderful unspoiled places to see. This was a very welcome break in the sun, which helped to lift my spirits and to make the grief of […]
Ah sounds so nice ðŸ˜
Ive fallen in love with the island!
[…] even in England! Sunscreen is just as essential as for a holiday abroad. Being outside all day, with little shade, means it is easy to get burned. Sunburn and sleeping in […]