The island has an arid volcanic landscape, and apart from the beaches, not much to recommend it in the way of tourist amenities or attractions. This has kept the mega resorts and mass summer package-holiday trade at bay, but it does have a fair share of day-trippers from the resorts of Lanzarote and Gran Canaria who come seeking a respite from the crowds. The island's two main resort towns are Corralejo and Caleta del Fuste. Fuerteventura is easily accessible from the other islands in the archipelago by ferry or air. The airport is situated close to the island's capital of Puerto del Rosario.
Resorts
See our separate guides to the following Fuerteventura holiday resorts: Caleta de Fuste and Corralejo
Betancuria
The town of Betancuria was founded in 1405 and was the first capital of Fuerteventura. The town enjoys a fantastic location and offers attractive views of the hilly terrain and winding river below. In the town are several beaituful buildings and churches worth visting including the church of Iglesia de Santa Maria de Betancuria and the convent of San Buenaventura. The Casa Museo Arquebiologico has some interesting artefacts including fertility idols and farming tools that reflect the earliest history of the island, before recreational visitors arrived as the final conquering force. There are various shops and stalls here that sell some of the best handcrafts and local produce on Fuerteventura.
El Cotillo
This rustic little village has plenty of charm and character for those looking for a quiet getaway with gorgeous beaches. The town has a rich history, and was previously a smuggler's harbour used by Fuerteventurans shipping goods off to Gran Canaria where the prices were better. The 18th century Fortaleza del Tostón overlooks the town from the cliffs to the south of the harbour. A highlight of a visit to Cotillo are the lagoons which feature crystal clear azure water and flawless beaches to tan on.
La Lajita Zoo
The little fishing village on the east coast of Fuerteventura has been put on the tourist map because it offers one of the island's main attractions, the 'Oasis de Los Camellos' zoo. The zoo is home to a small selection of animals, but the main activities offered are parrot shows, horse rides and camel safaris. While waiting their turn visitors can relax under the palm trees at the zoo's bar, or try out one of a few seafood restaurants that have sprung up in the village.
La Oliva
The village of La Oliva was formerly the home of the military governors of the island between the 17th and mid-19th centuries. The Governor's townhouse has been restored and is open to the public. Also in the centre of the village is the pretty church of Parroquiade Nuestra Seiiora de Candelaria, with a square bell tower and finely carved wooden door. The interior of the church features a painting of the Last Judgement, a baroque altar painting by Juan de Miranda and some wonderfultrompe l'oeil work. The village also has an art centre exhibiting the work of Canarian artists.
Oasis de Los Camellos
This animal park in the small village of La Lajita has one of the most important botanical gardens in Europe, with over 2,300 varieties of cactus. The local fauna is well represented too, with four demonstrations per day - parrots, snakes, sea lions and birds of prey are introduced to captivated to audiences. The park is about preserving and protecting wildlife rather than simply displaying it making this both a fun and educational attraction for the kids.
Puerto del Rosario
The main town of Fuerteventura, Puerto del Rosario on the western side of the island was once called Puerto de Cabras ('port of the goats'), and even today it is said that goats outnumber people in this whitewashed town. Only recently capitalising on the tourist trade, the streets in charming Puerto del Rosario have been resurfaced and the harbour promenade rebuilt. The main street provides some good souvenir shops and the old harbour area features some attractive examples of Canarian architecture. The home of exiled poet Miguel de Unamuno, which has been turned into a museum, is situated in the harbour area.
Quad Adventures
Explore the north of the islands on a guided quad bike tour along contoured dirt tracks. This attraction will appeal to older kids, although the younger ones can ride tandem with an adult. Safety is high on the agenda so proper equipment and pre-departure training is provided.
Excursions
Costa Calma
The resort town of Costa Calma is centred on the sandy beaches and benign waters of the bay, popular with sunbathers, swimmers and windsurfers. The resort attracts German tourists mostly, evidenced by the abundance of brauhaus-style bars and menus quoted in German. The colourful Sunday market is a focal point for locals and tourists alike and is one of the few weekly occasions when the town rouses from its sun-kissed slumber. There is one other event which heralds a great stirring of activity: the World Windsurfing Speed and Slalom competition held in July/August. The venue is Sotovento, probably the most attractive beach in the vicinity of Costa Calma. The resort is located about 1 hour's drive south of the airport.
Events
International Kite Festival
Every year in second weekend of November, the International Kite Festival brings colour and grace to the skies above Fuerteventura's Dunas de Corralejo Natural Park in the north-east of the island. The location provides not only reliable wind but 2,500 hectares of sand dunes, an ideal backdrop for the thousands of colourful and acrobatic kites.
Feria de Artesania
The traditional crafts and culture of the Canary Islands is celebrated annual in this festival of traditional wares, artisanal products, local foods and even traditional dancing and wrestling. Products are not only for sale - great for souvenirs or gifts - but their creation is demonstrated by the craftsmen as they variously weave baskets, shape pottery, create jewellery, or make leather goods. It is well worth attending this three day festival to get a flavour of the authentic island culture. Free admission.
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