B Y S A M A N T H A V A N D E P O L L

I N T R O

The pretty, desert like island of Fuerteventura is by far the most underrated of all the Canary Islands. Often overlooked for its more eventful siblings, what this island may lack in development it makes up for in untouched natural beauty. Having been to the island for months at a time over the last 10 years I can confidently say it is my favourite of the islands. Each of the canaries in my opinion caters to a different market, that's not to say you can't find wonderful things in each, but Fuerteventura in summary is for the adventurous, free, nature loving nomads. There is so much more space on the island and so much to explore you just need to get out and find it. In this guide I'll take you through some of the best things to explore while on the island, as well as some of the hidden gems other tourist don't go to. I'll also guide you through costs, how to get around and the best places to stay depending on what you like and your budget.

Fueteventura

Fuerteventura, the second largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, sits in the Atlantic Ocean 100km off the north coast of Africa. It's unique desert like appearance sets it apart from the other islands, with its baron landscapes sand coloured hills, it is a truly beautiful place to explore with vast amounts of space and far less tourist. The multitude of white sand beaches that wrap around are some of the best in Europe, many interrupted by scenic cliffs, mountains and sheltered coves. There are an abundance of natural wonders to explore, most unspoilt by human habitations such a rock pools to wild swim in, canyons to hike through and breathtaking sand dunes to enjoy. The island is extremely underrated and hands down my favourite of them all.

Here below are some of the wonderful places to see and check out while visiting the island.

Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo

Aguas verdes

Cofete beach

Lajares

Playa de aguilla

Los Molinos windmills

Bentacuria

Lobos island

Sotavento beach

El costillo beach

Calderon Hondo

Mirador siascumbre

Barranco de los Enamorados

Caleta de fuste

Old town correlajo

Day trip to lanzarote

Barranco de Le penitas

Salt museum

Surf school on costillo beach

Antigua

Dumas de Corralejo

If you do old one thing while visiting Fuerteventura then the Dunas de Corralejo must be that. Natural beauty at its best, the stunning seven-mile sand dunes lie to the south of Corralejo. The endless rolling dunes, windswept beach and glimmering turquoise water will take your breath away. These desert-like dunes, which sweep down to the sea, make up the protected national park which is home to many different species. Its easy to access as you drive through it and you can park just about anywhere along the way.

Aguas verdes

Located in the quieter west region of Bentancuria sits a beautiful little hidden collection of rock pools called Aguas Verdes aka Green waters. The pools are a perfect example of the many unspoilt natural natural wonders found in the Canary Islands. There are approximately six kilometres of pools dotted along the coastline. Many of which are hidden away so you have to hike to find them. It is always recommended to go during low tide when the winds are down as the hike to them is very rocky and dangerous.

If you'd prefer something all to yourself then a short 10 minute hike towards the left (north) you'll come across a series of beautiful turquoise pools that rarely have any people.It will take approximately 30-40 minutes from Corralejo via car to get there. The drive is smooth and quiet and you will see a lot of the pretty rural areas of the island along the way. You need to head in the direction of Bentancuria to Barranco de valle or as its labelled on the map as Urbanizacion Aguas Verdes. Once you reach the coast there's a few gravel roads which will lead you closer to the beach with plenty of places for you to park. From that point the main pools are to the right and the smaller quieter are along to the left.

Cofete beach

The Jandía Peninsula, in the southernmost part of Fuerteventura, is home to one of the largest and most majestic treasures of this Canary Islands - Playa de Cofete. Hidden in the south of the island, measuring more than 12 kilometres long, Coffee still remains something of a secret and hidden gem on the island. Shielded by the mountains of the Jandía Natural Park along with its difficult access, makes it a wonderful place to explore and on most occasions you'll have it all to yourself.The Playa de Cofete beach is unquestionably one of Fuerteventura’s most special beaches, with each visit guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Voted one of the best beaches in Europe on several occasions its not hard to see why. To visit the beach you will need to had down to Morro Jable in the south and take the Punta Jandia road, following the signs to the dirt roads that lead you to Cofete. It is a fairly straightforward road but extremely bumpy and narrow in parts so take care.

Lajares town

Larajes is a small bohemian surf town in the La Oliva region in the north of the island. One of the islands best kept secrets as well as the most charming town, it manages to marry together the traditional white washed village life with the artistic laid back vibes of nomad life. Pretty shops and cool cafes line the streets as well as surf stores catering to the ever growing surf scene on the island. This was a bit of a unexpected find after visiting the nearby volcano but is well situated for many of the amazing natural wonders that lie around the north.

Playa de aguilla

A wild and wind-swept section of Fuerteventura’s northwest coast, Playa del Águila plays host to a dramatic coastline with vast cliffs and beautiful sandy beaches. Tucked out the way but still only a short hop from the cool surf town of El Costillo its a great beach to come and spend the day. Its also has some of the most incredible sunsets with its place on the Atlantic coast. Follow the dirt road south of El Costillo for about 10 minutes to get to this lovely spot.

Los Molinos Windmills

You will often on your journeys see traditional looking windmills scattered around the island. If you venture inland you will find the Tefía Mill, located in the municipality of Puerto del Rosario, in the dry, open landscape of Majorero. It is one of the 23 mills declared as an Asset of Cultural Interest in Fuerteventura. A visit to a mill is a great way to learn about the economy of the island in past centuries.

Bentacuria

Bentacuria is a small town located on the West side of the island. As the first European settlement on the Canary Islands, a walk through Betancuria gives visitors a glimpse of the previous way of life in Fuerteventura. The colonial town, recognised as a heritage site in 1979, offers tours around its many religious buildings and is a beautiful spot to stop for lunch and explore.

Lobos Island

Hit up the port in Correljo and take a day trip to the stunning Lobos island, just a 20 minute boat ride away, the Islet of Lobos is a guarantee d vista of tranquillity, with its crystal-clear waters and incredibly beautiful volcanic landscapes. This name originally comes from the sea lions and seals which lived along its coast until recently, at only 4.5 square kilometres with no roads, its valuable landscapes and natural fauna and flora have seen it be declared a Natural Park.

Barranco De Los Enamorados

One of the most fun and interesting geological formations to explore on the island is Barranco de los Enamorados. Just a short drive away from the seaside town of El Cotillo, the rock formations are fabulous to explore and walk through. Sometimes known as the Barranco Encantado, every corner is different and it is perfect if you are keen on hiking.

Sotavento beach

Sotavento is easy: it's the islands best known beach in the world. Just its length, about nine kilometres, leaves visitors speechless. At low tide, the island gains so much land that some residents doubt that Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands. The huge lagoons that are created at low tide, the constant sunshine and infinite golden sand make it worthy of another synonym: paradise.

El Cotillo & Beach

In the north-east of Fuerteventura you will find the beaches and coastal village of El Cotillo. To the north they extend into a series of family-friendly coves of white sand and calm turquoise waters. La Concha beach is one of them, and is one of the best-known in Fuerteventura for its beauty, quality and tranquillity. The town is a collection of white washed houses, bohemian cafes filled with surfers and locals.

Calderon Hondo

Calderón Hondo is one of the best-preserved craters in Fuerteventura. The volcanic formation lies to the east of the road that leaves Lajares and is a wonderful site to explore. A gentle circular walking route around the volcano is suitable for all abilities and lasts approximately an hour and a half. The last eruption only occurred between 50,000 years and 130,000 years ago – which is relatively recent in the island’s history hence its nick name 'the young volcano'. The road to he car park is very bumpy but. you'll be greeted by sweet natured chipmunks on arrival.

Mirador Siascumbre

The Sisacumbre viewing point is located in the south of Fuerteventura, in Pájara, and is an excellent place to view the skies. For true astronomy addicts Sicasumbre offers the the darkest star filled skies, just make sure to wrap up warm.

Rock pool in Caleta de fuste

Just on the edge of the town sits a tidal Rockpool that only appears at low tide, filled with turquoise waters it is a beautiful place to cool off and swim but not such a well kept secret anymore.

Old town Correlajo

Correlajo on first sight can come across as a bit of a tourist trap and for the best part it is, however if you venture to the North of the town, near the port, then there is a small and charming district of Old town. Sprinkled with pretty restaurants and stylish bars in whitewashed buildings, it has a fishing village charm to it and is a far cry from the main strip further South of the town. If you stay in Correlajo then aim to stay here.

Day trip to lanzarote

Lanzarote, a surprisingly stylish island, unparalleled in its beauty and diverse volcanic landscape. Look beyond the package holiday label and see the dramatic rolling mountains, beautiful beaches, lush palm groves and hidden wild swimming spots.

Lanzarote has been developed sustainably and in harmony with the surroundings, especially thanks to the wonderful work of Spanish artist César Manrique. If you're based in the North of Fuerteventura then its well worth taking the Ferry to Playa Blanca (you will need a car) and exploring island.

Teguise is my go to place to stay whenever I'm on the island. Situated in the north east of the island, sits the enchanting old capital of Teguise. With its whitewashed streets, artistic scene and chilled bohemian vibes, Teguise plays host to a variety of small independent businesses as well as a small community of locals. Another highlight for me were the cactus gardens and the many natural swimming pools of Los Charcones filled with pale turquoise waters.

Barranco de Le Penitas

Barranco de las Peñitas is a ravine made up of a rocky terrain full of enchanting landscapes. The highlight of the area is the Arco de las Peñitas which is a gaping archway hidden in one of the huge rock formations at the top of the hill. The natural stone arch is a spectacular view point and it makes for a great hike.

Salt museum

The Salt Museum, in the west of Fuerteventura, lets visitors see how salt was traditionally extracted from sea water before being converted into a common kitchen ingredient. The museum is located next to Caleta de Fuste, where the first salt fields in the island were built several centuries ago.

Surf school on El Cotillo beach

The island is world renowned for its surf scene and there is not better place than El Cotillo to give it a go. With plenty of surf schools choose from there's option for every level, its also I great group activity to book.

Antigua

Antigua, in the flat central part of Fuerteventura, is another beautiful Spanish town filled with charm. Its centre attests to its historic and artistic heritage which is also reflected in its architecture. Antigua’s countryside is lined with windmills that break up the flat landscape with the blades, just like bygone times, its quiet splendour is well worth a visit.

W H E R E & W H E N?

When to go

Thanks to the warm year round climate there's never a bad time to visit the canaries. Although cooler in the winter months, you're still guaranteed a mild 20 degrees and sunshine daily. I think November to March is a great time to visit the islands as they're much quieter and prices are generally cheaper so you can usually stay for longer for less.

What area to stay in?

Correlajo

Lajares

El Cotillo

Depeding on what you're looking for I've always preferred the north of the island for its sheer volume of things to do. The town have more bohemian vibes and feel a tad more cultured than the south. If you're looking for something for relaxed or a resort holiday then the South is still a great option for those

Getting about

Although there are local buses that run around and through the island, the best and really only way to truly see the island is by car. Hiring a car is extremely easy and starts from as little is 13 euros a day. The roads in Fuerteventure and some of the best I've ever driven on. Smooth, simple and quiet. if you've never driven abroad before and are a little apprehensive then this is the best place to drive for the first time and you will fall in love with it I promise. Hire an automatic for ease of mind and give it a whirl.

Summary of costs

The Canary's are extremely accessible from the UK and Europe with flights going daily and starting from prices as low as £20 from London Gatwick. I recently rented a beautiful apartment from 300 Euros for the week between 2 of us, hotels vary from 40-70 euros per night with the higher end more towards the 100's. Food shopping is extremely reasonable and alcohol very cheap from as little as 2 euros for a bottle of wine. Car hire works out at a roughly 15 a day for a slighlty better car. Most sights are free to enter and explore.

Final word

For its natural beauty, underrated image and desert like landscapes, Fuerteventura has earned its place as my favourite Canary Island. A trip here to truly enjoy all it has to offer is dependent on a car but it is a wonderful place to explore and deserves more attention than it receives. Make your nest sun filled escape here, you won't be disappointed.

Peace out.