Fuerteventura By Car: Road Trip Highlights

It may be the coldest time of the year for many if us in the UK, Ireland or Northern Europe, but there are plenty of warm winter getaways that are just a few hours on a plane away. One of the most popular winter visits to the Canary Islands is Fuerteventura; which is easily navigable by car. Take a look below at some of the top sights in Fuerteventura in our road trip highlights guide.

Sand Dunes of Corralejo

Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo (Sand Dunes of Corralejo) boasts some 10 km of beaches with gorgeous turquoise water. It also has a red and black volcanic landscape to the south and the sand is made up of shells from the marine creatures. The locals call this Grandes Playas (big beaches) and wildlife includes the Houbara Bustard, the islands’ largest native bird. There are two hotels which are a bit of a blot on the landscape but if you are staying there handy for the dunes. In the zuccos (stone shelters) you will find nudists letting it all hang out so probably not fit for all the family. And you will find Chiringuitos (beach bars) which can be used for your toilet or shower requirements as well as having an ice-cool beer. For a view of the area from above climb Montana Rojr (Red Mountian) to take selfies for the memories.

Cofete

Unlike these dunes, those at Cofete are hard to get to but once there you will find unspoilt and quiet dunes voted by Trip Advisor as one of the top ten coastlines in 2015. It is within the Jandia Natural Park with Pico de la Zarza towering above the area. But it is not suitable for surfing or swimming due to strong currents and high winds. And check with Indigo as you may not be insured for ‘off-road‘ which getting to Cofete necessitates. For selfies and piccies here try Roque del Morro for astonishing views of the area. There are signposted walk trails here with a restaurant as a stop-off point for replenishment. Plus at Morro Jable harbour is a turtle sanctuary which will thrill the kids and teach them on the importance of saving species too.

Bentancuria

Inland you will come across Betancuria, a lovely laid-back hamlet and the oldest town on the islands and former capital. This place really takes you back in time, before the hotels, bars and restaurants took hold. Though it is still popular for day-trippers though most venues close by early evening. The island’s first church is here, Santa Maria de Betancuria, and to the north the remains of San Beunaventura monastery. And there is the Museum of Sacred Art if you feel like dipping into a bit of divinity. And for an aerial view there is both the Mirador Morro Velosa and Mirador Corrales de Guize for your holiday snaps.

Playa de Sotavento

A popular attraction is Playa de Sotavento, some 20km of beaches from Morro Jable to Costa Calma. It is great for wind and kite surfers. While for snorkelling and swimming the Isla de Lobos is an ideal venue (it translates as island of wolves). It is also fit for hikers or naturists and there is only one village on the island, El Puertito (little port). So it makes a great place for wildlife, being a Special Protection Area for Birds. And you will also find Lobos Lighthouse at Punta Martino. So remember water, sun cream and food on your visit here. Another pursuit from Morro Jable is a boat trip to see dolphins and whales, a real treat for old and young too.

Pico de la Zarza

The highest mountain is Pico de la Zarza with amazing views of Cofete, a five-hour hike if you are feeling strong. While for a seafood meal try out Ajuy, an idyllic seaside village. Of particular geological interest with fossils of extinct species and rocks over 100 million years old. Famous for its sea caves (allegedly once used by pirates) and cliff-top hikes. While it is great for sunbathing, swimming is not advised.

We hope that has inspired you to take a winter trip to Fuerteventura. Take a look at some of our options for car hire in Fuerteventura, of which we also offer car hire with a debit card at Fuerteventura Airport. If you need further inspiration for some winter getaways, then take a look at some of other blogs for some winter sun:

Rich Jevons was first published in the Yorkshire Post at the tender age of fifteen. After graduating at University of Humberside, Rich covered the visual and performing arts for a wide range of regional, national and international magazines, journals and newspapers. He has interviewed the likes of Patrick Stewart, Colin Baker and Christopher Eccleston. Currently, he is writing copy on road trips around the world, all from his office in Wortley, Leeds