Fuerteventura is one of the seven main islands that make up the Spanish Canary Islands off the coast of Africa. This archipelago is extremely popular for European holidaymakers due to the moderate climate all year round.
Fuerteventura is the second largest of them all and is very popular for surfing and windsurfing due to the island’s incredibly windy weather and rolling waves. In fact, this very strong wind is what makes Fuerteventura, in my opinion, an “either you love it or hate it” place.
The constantly blowing wind may annoy the hell out of travelers trying to explore the island. On top of that, most of the island’s landscape is devoid of tall vegetation due to the excessive wind, leaving mostly barren surface with only the hardiest of scrubs surviving the constant battering. Add to that the past volcanic onslaught scarring the landscape and you’d be left wondering what is there to savor in this place.
However, I was definitely on the “love it” camp and once you get past the mortal annoyance of wind battering your face, you’d come to appreciate the beauty and natural wonder this amazing island has to offer. Besides Fuerteventura’s highlights, check out also my highlights from the neighboring island of Lanzarote.
Getting there:
The main entry point for most travelers would be the Fuerteventura airport to the south of the island’s capital Puerto del Rosario. Being an incredibly popular holiday destination, plenty of flights are available from mainland Europe.
There are also regular ferries connecting Fuerteventura at Corralejo to the north to Lanzarote’s Playa Blanca. Ferries connecting Fuerteventura to other Canary Islands, including to Lanzarote, depart from Puerto del Rosario’s port. For the more adventurous, long distance ferry from among others Cadiz and Huelva in Spanish mainland is also available.
To navigate around the island, the most convenient way is definitely with your own ride. Cars can be rented at the airport. Alternatively, public bus service is also available, operated by Tiadhe, reaching all corners of the island. The routes and timetables can be easily checked in its website.
1. Hiking to Pico de la Zarza
Hiking to the highest point of the island at over 800 meters above the sea level offers the best panorama view in the island. Starting above the town of Solana Matorral (see map), the trek takes about 2 hours one way to cover the 6-7 km distance. The route is dominated mostly by gentle slopes, apart from the short last push to the summit
The peak itself is located on the rim of an ancient volcanic crater, only half of which remains visible today above the water. Just like in the rest of Fuerteventura, the landscape on the way to the peak is dominated by barren mountainous valleys and hills. Be prepared for the constantly windy condition during the trek.
Once arriving at the top, you’d be welcomed by the splendid view over the blue ocean, including over the beach of Cofete on the other side of the peak.. On a clear day, you’d even be able to see a large part of the island to the north. This peak is truly the pinnacle of the natural beauty of Fuerteventura.
Tip: Check out also the beautiful beach promenade at Solana Matorral for a well deserved relaxing time after finishing the trek.
2. Parque Rural de Betancuria
In this area at the heart of the Fuerteventura you can find some of the most breathtaking sights on the island. Consisting mainly of the rolling barren hills typical of Fuerteventura, Betancuria offers plenty of options for travelers, active and cultural alike.
Exploring the area by car, my journey in this area took me through endless winding roads nestled among the mountains of Betancuria. Its undulating landscape hides plenty of hiking trails and charming villages in the area. Be sure to pay a visit to the town of Betancuria, the historic capital of the Canary.
3. Hiking to Barranco de las Peñitas
Located in the area of Parque Rural de Betancuria, the hike to Barranco de las Peñitas offers travelers the chance to experience the best nature scene this area has to offer. The Barranco (ravine) is nestled between the rocky slopes so typical of Betancuria. It is just a short hike starting from the village of Vega de Rio Palmas.
Deep in the ravine after navigating through a small rocky trail and passing a dried up dam, a curiosity in the form of a small hermitage (Ermita de las Peñitas) can be found, housing items and messages left by faithful pilgrims. Although short, this pleasant hike is a must do while visiting Fuerteventura.
4. Camino Calderas
This walking route in the northern part of the island offers the perfect glimpse to the volcanic past of Fuertenventura. Passing no less than three craters. the Camino Calderas perfectly showcases how the volcanoes immortalized its long lasting impact on the island’s surface.
The route spans between the city of Corralejo on the northern tip of the island and the small town of Lajares further southwest. The trail is mostly flat, except for the ones that go either into the crater or high up to the crater’s rim.
Volcano Bayuyo is the perfect demonstration of the caldera’s interior while ascending to the rim of Calderon Hondo presents an impressive view of the crater and surrounding view from above. Curiously, the barren crater of Calderon Hondo is inhabited by thousands of small mouse-like creatures, leaving me to wonder how they survive there.
5. El Cotillo coastline
On the northwestern part of Fuerteventura, lies a small coastal town of El Cotillo which boasts beautiful coasts and beaches. In the Playa del Castillo beach to the south, the raging water is perfect for water sports. Meanwhile, the sheltered beach to the north is ideal for relaxing and swimming in the tranquil turquoise water. The nearby El Toston lighthouse is also worth a visit amid the raging wind and waves breaking by the rock boulder.