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Corralejo
Corralejo may seem an unlikely tourist hot spot, but the historic harbour town now plays host to hundreds of day-trippers from the neighbouring Canary Islands all keen to enjoy the serenity and idyllic beaches of Fuerteventura. Despite offering a major ferry route to the island, Corralejo has not strayed far from its original fishing routes; although the local restaurants now offer fish and chips, curry and Mexican tacos in addition to the more traditional locally-caught seafood.
After investigating the various souvenir shops along the way, and stocking up on suntan lotion and souvenirs, a wander down the Calle General Franco main street leads to the protected nature reserve where you can relax on acres of sand dunes and watch the world go by. For the more adventurous holidaymaker, the beaches around the island offer a range of water-sports, or slightly less energetic tours around the island by jeep, mountain bike, glass-bottomed boat or even motorcycle.
Attractions
Beaches:
Fuerteventura is best known for its miles of idyllic beaches; whether it is white sands, volcanic pebbles, secluded tranquillity or bustling activity, there will be a beach to suit you. The Southern tip of the island is best known for the golden sands of Juan Gomez and Viejo Rey where, as with all beaches on the island, serious sun-worshippers are free to get an all-over tan at their leisure. For those intent on securing a more secluded sunbathing spot, it is well worth hiring a four by four to get to some of the more remote beaches. Of specific interest are the volcanic sands of Giniginamar hidden behind the foliage of the West Coat, although La Pared in the Southern part of the island also boasts some striking black sand in a more accessible location.
Oasis de Los Camellos:
A small fishing village on the Eastern coast of the island may seem an unlikely location for unusual animals, but La Lajita Zoo is one of Fuerteventura's main tourist attractions. Boasting camel safaris, rides on horses and parrot shows all under the comfortable shade of palm trees, the zoo is a gauranteed fun day out. Open from nine in the morning until half past seven in the evening, there is plenty to keep children and adults alike entertained, as well as a bar and several seafood restaurants to keep energy levels up.
La Oliva Military Governor's Home:
Fuerteventura is an ancient island steeped in history and boasting many historical sites, one of the most famous of which is La Oliva. The entire village used to be home to the island's Military Governors from the 17th right through to the mid-19th centuries, and many of the original buildings can still be explored today. In addition to the restored house itself, the local church and bell tower are also still intact. The Church is home to a renowned painting of the Last Judgement, as well as a square bell tower and impressive carved wooden door. The village is by no means a relic of the past however with a new art centre set up to exhibit the work of local Canarian artists.
Town Life:
Puerto del Rosario is the major town of the island; situated on the West coast the whitewashed buildings and locally-inspired architecture retain the traditional feel of the old town, whilst the tempting array of bars, restaurants and shops provide all the amenities expected of a tourist destination. Recently having undergone a rebuild the harbour town still pays homage to its history with a museum dedicated to the island's famous exiled poet Miguel de Unamuno.
The ancient capital of Betancuria also offers an insight into the historical background of Fuerteventura. Founded in 1405 the town was eventually evacuated after repeated Pirate raids, but now offers an interesting day-trip for tourists. The Santa Maria church has recently been restored and local artists can still be seen hard at work. The Casa Museo Arquebiologica documents the history of the area and is complemented by a small shop selling traditional trinkets and crafts. The museum itself is open all day on Sunday mornings and all day from Tuesday to Saturdays when the local restaurant offers good food to weary visitors.
