Compare Fuerteventura holidays

What to do in Fuerteventura

It's hard to escape the call of the beach in Fuerteventura. But once you’ve had a few days on the sand, tour the unspoiled island and explore its heritage on magical mountain, Tindaya. Or head to a peaceful, picturesque fishing village to embrace the simple life.

Corralejo Natural Park

For more postcard-perfect beaches, visit coastal Corralejo Natural Park. Its epic dunes are an attraction in their own right. The vast piles of Saharan sand shape shift before your eyes as gusts of wind blast through.

To the south of the park, away from the Atlantic waters, you’ll find a dramatic rugged volcanic landscape. One of the best ways to take it all in is by hiking to the summit of the Montaña Roja (Red Mountain) volcano.

El Cotillo

On the northwest coast, this tranquil fishing village is one of Fuerteventura’s most charming spots. It’s a great place to dial down for a few days and embrace the simple life of sunbathing, surfing and admiring stunning sunsets.

Near the old harbour, a series of sculptures and the Fortaleza del Tostón, a 17th-century fort, are a short walk from the village. The shopping street has local artisan handicrafts and the harbour bars and restaurants offer superb sea views.

Lobos Island

Tiny Lobos Island, “Wolf Island”, is just off the north coast and takes its name from the sea wolves (monk seals) that once called it home. Today, serenity rules. It is barely inhabited by humans but boasts more than 130 plant and bird species.

Ferries from Corralejo take you for an hour’s ride around the little island. You’ll pass the island lighthouse, coves with crystal-clear water and the “little oven” mounds formed by lava flows.

Montaña de Tindaya

After a few days of lounging on the sand, you might feel the urge to be a little more active. If so, hike around Montaña de Tindaya, a 400m (1,312ft) high mountain that was considered sacred to the island's indigenous inhabitants.

While climbing the mountain is no longer permitted, you’re can trek around the base. Look out for the amazing 300 or so footprint-shaped engravings left by the Majorero people – you won’t regret it.

Where to stay in Fuerteventura

For food and drink

In El Cotillo, you can watch fishermen unloading the day’s catch before you tuck into it at a restaurant overlooking the ocean. There are a selection of hotels and apartments with pools, all a short walk from the town’s eateries.

If you like to mix local flavours with international favourites, Corralejo is a good option. There are dozens of places to eat, from tiny tapas bars to high-end restaurants. The artisan market, on Thursday and Sunday, is a great spot to pick up local products such as homemade jams and chocolate.

For nightlife

While the nightlife here is quieter than lively neighbouring islands Lanzarote and Tenerife, Corralejo knows how to party. The town has everything from British pubs to discos where you can dance the night away.

Further south on the east coast, wander down Caleta del Fuste’s main street for your choice of drinking spots and karaoke bars. And many visitors overlook Puerto del Rosario, the island’s busy port and capital, but its pubs and gin bars make for a good night out.

For culture

Tucked away in the southeast corner of the island, Morro Jable is a small town with a quaint harbour. While the beaches have drawn in the tourists, the historic centre retains some of its old charm with narrow streets and whitewashed buildings alongside the hotels and self-catering apartments.

Puerto del Rosario is another spot with plenty of culture. You’ll find a museum in the old home of Miguel Unamuno, a writer and philosopher who was exiled from the Spanish mainland. The Casa de la Cultura puts on plays, concerts and other artistic exhibitions.