Treat yourself to a wonderful week on this Canary Island. Fuerteventura is an island that surprises you. Not so much for its many trees and unusual buildings – there are none – but for its rawness and sporting opportunities. In Fuerteventura, there is almost never rain. Wind only. We witnessed the strong winds that sometimes blow across the island. Fortunately, that didn’t last long. Which allowed us to enjoy Fuerteventura to the fullest. Couple of tips:
1. Rent a car
Public transportation is not very good, so rent a car. You can also do this just fine when you arrive at the airport. Then you avoid having to stand in the long line at the airlines that promote mainly on “reserving your car in advance. Saves you just waiting an hour to an hour and a half until your winter head can soak up the sun!
2. Book a cottage or apartment in Lajares, Fuerteventura
This place is strategically located in the north right in the middle. Especially if you are a water sports enthusiast, this is a good getaway. You will also find many cute little stores and an organic store with vega products and organic bakery. Obviously through AirBnB.
3. Betancuria & the hills of Fuerteventura
In the middle of Fuerteventura lies the small village of Betancuria. Cute little white church and square. It is incredibly small, and yes there are tourists, but well worth getting out.
4. The dunes at Corralejo
Through this natural phenomenon you really have to walk. You almost get a desert idea. Except that sometimes you can see the kite-surfers in the distance.
5. Go help out at Fuertedogs
Sander and I helped every 2 days in her shelter. The Fuertedogs Foundation currently takes in more than 120 dogs that have been abused, neglected or abandoned. This merry gang of dogs, led by Elke, makes for a lot of messes, so it’s quite a roll up of the sleeves. But as soon as those sweet little faces look at you and come to get hugs, you immediately melt. Fuertedogs primarily takes in Podencos. These intelligent Spanish hunting dogs are discarded every year after the hunting season. Would you also like to help? This can be done in several ways. Read about what you can do on the Fuertedogs site. Adopting a dog is also always possible. Watch out, because once you set 1 foot across the threshold, you will instantly fall in love with the sweet Podencos.
6. Learn to surf in Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is known for its many opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. There is a wonderful surfer vibe in Lajares.
7. Hike the Calderon Hondo
A crater near Lajares. With beautiful views of the sea and corralejo. Walk against the direction we liked better.
8. El Cotillo in Fuerteventura
This town has a fine beach where you can relax in the sun without too many crowds. There are no washrooms or dining facilities, so bring your own snacks. And occasionally find a sheltered spot when you need to go to the bathroom.
9. Punt de Jandia, southernmost tip of Fuerteventura
A long drive from Lajares. It is a day trip. We found it a bit disappointing in the end. If you have the time, it is fun to see. When you don’t have time….skippen.
Delicious food in Fuerteventura? We explored and found some good restaurants for vegetarians. And – surprise – even for vegans!
Rather not go to Fuerteventura? Then check out a weekend in Naples or tasty veggie restaurants in Barcelona.
