Fuerteventura holidays: what do I need to know?

When is the best time to visit Fuerteventura?

Found just 300 km east of Tenerife, the island of Fuerteventura is a great alternative to other top destinations in Spain. So, you're wondering when to go? Just like the other Canary Islands, Fuerteventura enjoys an "eternal" spring, with sunny days, blue skies and pleasant temperatures all year round! That said, you should take note of the following in order to avoid any surprises:

• Being just 100 km from the coast of Africa, Fuerteventura has a warmer and drier climate than its neighbours, largely due to the influence of the Harmattan, a dry wind from the Sahara.
• Precipitation is rare and usually occurs in autumn.
• Winters can be a bit cooler (especially at night) but remain mild and pleasant. The waters remain warm enough for swimming.
• Autumn and spring are considered the most best seasons. Autumn in particular is a great choice for exploring the island without a large number of tourists (except during specific festivals).
• It is usually in summer that the thermometer reaches its highest temperatures. However, thanks to the Atlantic Ocean, temperatures rarely exceed 30 degrees. July and August are the most popular months, so think about your accommodation well in advance if you plan to travel during this time of year.

Now that you're up to speed with the weather in Fuerteventura, and with when it are the best times to visit the island – the question remains, how you are going to spend your time? To help you plan the best holiday, here is a selection of must-sees and must-dos to get the most out of your time.

 

Which are the most beautiful beaches in Fuerteventura?

 

 

If we love Fuerteventura so much, it is mainly for its beautiful beaches. Here is our selection of the most stunning, that are not to be missed:

• Streching for 20 kilometres at the extreme south of the island, Playa de Cofete is completely isolated and bordered by the Jandía mountains. Only accessible by a dirt track, you can get there by 4x4. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole archipelago.
• On the southeastern Costa Calma, Playa Esmeralda is also one of the most beautiful in the archipelago. Its gentle waters lap tranquilly on the coastline. This emblematic stretch of sand makes for great snorkelling in a picture-perfect postcard setting.
• Playa de la Concha is located in the northwest of the island. With its white sand and turquoise waters, it is a true credit to the beauty of the island's beaches. Despite its small size, it is rarely overcrowded and is ideal for scuba diving.
• The beaches of Corralejo are definitely worth a visit. Located near a natural park, they have beautiful stretches of white sand bordered by turquoise waters. In the distance you can see the dunes of the nature park. Head south to Playa Grande to enjoy some peace and quiet.

 

Where are the best surf spots in Fuerteventura?

Take advantage of the strong winds to enjoy water sports such as surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing during your stay in Fuerteventura. Here is our selection of the very best spots:

• The beaches of El Cotillos are idyllic for surfers. The wild beaches and large waves offer favourable conditions for riding on the turquoise waters, especially to the south of the village.
• Sotavento beach is located in the south of Fuerteventura. This large beach normally attracts windsurfers and kitesurfers. Whether you are alone, with family or friends, it's a great choice.
• The Esquinzo Beach is located in the north of the island. Black volcanic rocks morph into golden sand, and the often strong winds make excellent waves for surfing. 
• Las Playitas is a volcanic sand beach popular for water sports, especially windsurfing. You can also visit the marine village, stroll between the typical white houses and enjoy fresh fish in one of the restaurants.
• The Jandía Peninsula, in the southeast of the island, has some superb beaches. It is here that the world championships of several sports are held, including surfing.

 

How to get lost in nature in Fuerteventura?

 

 

Corralejo (its natural side)

Corralejo is best known for its beautiful dunes and its natural park. It is precisely because of this area, that it is said that Fuerteventura has the largest sand dunes in the archipelago. Stretching along the eastern coastline, you will be faced with a desert expanse reminiscent of the nearby African coast and the Sahara. Many protected species nest here. To the north, you have a direct view of Lobos Island, and to the centre of the natural park, you have Montana Roja volcano as a backdrop.

 

Oasis Park Fuerteventura

Oasis Park Fuerteventura is a tropical theme park that is suitable for young and old alike. It is the only zoological and botanical park on the island. You can find 250 species of animals from all over the world. Among the more than 3,000 animals that call this home, are exotic birds, giraffes, hippos and crocodiles. You can also watch interactive shows with lemurs and pet reptiles and amphibians. Don't miss the unique wildlife in the various areas of the park and the unique botanical garden.

 

Lobos Island

Just a few kilometres from the port of Corralejo in Fuerteventura, is the Island of Lobos. This islet comprises six square kilometres of uninhabited nature preserve. Between its volcanic landscapes of salt marshes and hornitos (small volcanic mounds), wild beaches, and diverse flora and fauna, it is a natural haven. Be sure to visit the 19th-century Martiño Lighthouse from which you can enjoy is a spectacular view.

 

Mount Tindaya

Mount Tindaya is considered a sacred mountain by the Majos, the original aboriginal inhabitants of the island. It is located in the northeast of Fuerteventura, reaching an altitude of 400 metres. You will find more than 300 ancient engravings in the shape of human feet along with other geometric drawings. In short, the Mount Tindaya offers both a stunning landscape made up of many colours, and an archaeological area of great value.

 

What towns and villages to visit on a day trip to Fuerteventura?

Puerto del Rosario

Puerto del Rosario is the capital of Fuerteventura and is an ideal starting point for exploring the island. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and has several places of interest to visit. Among them, are the sculptures placed around the city and the church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario. Also be sure to visit the house-museum of Miguel de Unamuno. It a 19th-century mansion, in which the famous Spanish writer lived. Take a stroll through the white houses that give the town its picturesque look, before heading to the port and the seafront. The beaches, including Playa Blanca, will soon have you under their spell!

 

Betancuria

Betancuria is a colonial city founded in 1404 and nestled in a lush valley. In addition to the flora, you can also enjoy the colonial heritage. Two key places to visit are: the Santa María de Betancuria church and the archaeological museum. The church of Santa María de Betancuria was built in the 16th century, and is notable for its wooden balcony and the artesonado ceiling of its sacristy. The Archaeological Museum of Betancuria is a small museum displaying objects of Guanche origin. The term Guanche refers to the indigenous people of the Canary Islands who still lived in the stone age during the 15th-century.

 

El Cotillo

El Cotillo is a small village in the north of Fuerteventura. This little fishing port has a picturesque postcard look, where time seems to stand still. There are several places of interest to see. Start with the church before heading to the hermitage of Nuestra Señora del Buen Viaje. Be sure to also see the Torre del Tostón, a 17th-century tower fortress. Finally, head for the superb beaches. Among them is the famous Playa de la Concha which we mentioned earlier.

 

Corralejo (the town)

We have described the natural side of Corralejo above, but there is also much to do and see in the town itself. Start by wandering the winding streets of the old city centre. When you reach the beach promenade, you can decide which beach to go to. If you're there early, take advantage of the eastern orientation of the beaches to take in a spectacular sunset. Afterwards, enjoy a shopping session on the main street or in the Las Palmeras shopping centre. Finally, in the evening, enjoy the town's lively nightlife.

 

La Oliva

La Oliva is the former capital of Fuerteventura. Here, you will discover a charming village where the famous white houses typical of the island stand. Don't miss the 18th-century Casa de los Coroneles (House of the Colonels), former home of the governors of the island, which now hosts the La Oliva Traditional Market every Tuesday. Spare some time also for the Casa Mané Canary Island Art Centre, home to a diverse collection of art from the Canary Islands, including a sculpture garden.

 

Where to stay in Fuerteventura?

Are you looking for a hotel in Fuerteventura? Look no further, with our exclusive VeryChic sales. We regularly offer you extraordinary addresses that are sure to provide you with a luxurious and unique holiday. Here is just a glimpse:

 

 

• If you're looking for an all inclusive stay, try the Suite Hotel Atlantis Fuerteventura Resort, shown above. This gorgeous hotel combined with its kid's clubs has everything you need to satisfy the whole family!
• Then there's a beachside address, with its toes in the turquoise waters, and boasting grand colonial architecture, the Hotel Rio Calma Fuerteventura. Bathed in natural light, it offers a superb setting with its 16,000 square metres of landscaped gardens.
• For flawless luxury where your every need is taken care of, then only a 5-star all inclusive hotel will suffice. With a priviliged beachfront location, the elegant Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa enjoys spectacular views of the island of Lobos and neigbouring Lanzarote. The hotel boasts tropical gardens, superb rooms and the best spa on the island.