Fuerteventura is one of the largest Canary Islands, drenched in sunshine and wrapped in amazing beaches. What’s more, it’s only a short hop of around four hours from the UK! Stuffed with things to do for the whole family, this beautiful island really does have it all. Whether it’s action, culture, fine dining or simply a week sunning yourself – the options are endless. We’ve had a hard time picking just five but here are the favourites:
Biking through the volcanic landscape When you’re on holiday, physical activity in the heat may not hold much appeal. Enter EEE Bikers in Corralejo with their electric bikes! Whiz through the stunning backdrops carved by volcanoes effortlessly…no traffic, no noise and no exertion! For those who want to career downhill pushed by nothing but their own two legs, normal mountain bikes can be hired on the island but for those who want to enjoy the views in the sunshine without breaking a sweat, this is an excellent choice. A brief training session on how to use the electric bike is all you need before you are gliding through the breath-taking mountains.
Fiestas There are so many events and festivals happening throughout the year you’re bound to catch one or two. From the windsurfing championships in March and July where you can watch world-class competitors to the feast day of Corpus Christi on 14th June where the streets of La Orotava are decorated with flowers and coloured sand, there are plenty of cultural or sporting events organised all year round. There is a music festival towards the end of June, a kiteboarding grand slam in August, a jazz festival in September…whatever your interests are (or if you want to be introduced to new ones!), there’s always something exciting going on during holidays to Fuerteventura.
El Cotillo beach. To be honest, you are so spoilt for choice in Fuerteventura for beautiful beaches it’s impossible not to end up near one, but El Cotillo beach and lagoons deserves a special mention. Kick off your shoes and walk along the surf and play in the many lagoons and go rockpooling with the kids…although if you don’t fancy getting out all your white bits, stick to the beach away from the lighthouse as this area is nudist-friendly. Excellent restaurants, bars and shops are all available within easy walking distance.
La Lajita Oasis Park. A lush botanical garden is combined with a zoo at the Oasis Park – with animals from all over the world, over 200 species of birds, sea lion shows, a camel safari and the exotic flora of the region, this is a full fun-packed day out. The more green-fingered among you will be delighted to hear that the Oasis Park also contains a garden centre so you can snap up anything from herb plants to a palm tree! There are restaurants, toilet facilities and gift shops available in the park although you could always pack a picnic to save a bit of cash. You can get your photo taken for the reasonable price of €5 with the animals…you holding a parrot would be a holiday picture with a difference! Free pick up from most hotels, shuttle buses between the different sites and free parking all add to the many plus points of the park.
Relaxing spas. If all the fun has exhausted you, or if you need to properly recharge your batteries after a hectic time in the UK, a spa is a fantastic way to relax. Catering for men and women, a soothing massage or treatment in a spa can turn you from tired to tranquil from the second you lie on the snowy white sheets. There are plenty of spas in Fuerteventura, ranging from the traditional to Ayurvedic (eastern plant-based medicine) and many of the have their own so you won’t have to travel far to find a good one. Let expert hands calm you after a hard day of sunbathing or reading by the pool and feel your aches and pain ease away.
