Places of interest in Fuerteventura
Shifting sand dunes El Jable
El Jable is a fascinating natural attraction on the island of Fuerteventura. It is an extensive area of dunes found in the north-east of the island. El Jable stretches along the coast and covers an area of about 20 kilometres. These impressive sand dunes are a unique landscape formation and offer visitors an incomparable sight.
The dunes of El Jable are characterised by their fine, golden sand, which is formed by the strong trade winds. These masses of sand are washed up by coastal currents and shifted to their current positions over time by the winds. The result is an impressive backdrop that conveys a feeling of vastness and freedom.
The dune area of El Jable is not only a visually impressive natural spectacle, but it also plays an important role in the ecological balance of the island. The dunes provide natural protection against erosion and serve as a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species. In the protected areas of the dune area you will find special plants such as the beach lilac and beach grass, which are adapted to the extreme conditions of the sand dunes.
El Jable is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers and photographers. There are several hiking trails that lead through the dunes, giving visitors the opportunity to experience this unique landscape up close. You can walk through the vast expanses of sand, enjoy the peace and quiet of nature and admire the impressive views of the sea and the surrounding coastal landscape. The dunes also offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as sandboarding or picnics in nature.
Oasis Park
Oasis Wildlife Park Fuerteventura is an exceptional zoo and botanical garden in La Lajita in the south of the island - a vast natural paradise with a variety of animal species, exotic plants and fun activities for visitors of all ages.
The park covers an area of more than 800,000 square metres and is home to an impressive variety of animals from all over the world. Here you can see giraffes, elephants, zebras, flamingos, crocodiles, monkeys and many other species. There are also shows and demonstrations where you can learn more about the animals' behaviour.
The Botanical Garden in Oasis Park is a paradise for plant lovers. With over 2,500 different plant species, including endemic species from the Canary Islands and exotic plants from all over the world, the garden offers an impressive variety of colours and scents. Visitors can stroll through lush gardens, palm groves and tropical oases and enjoy the beauty of the plant life.
One can take part in camel safaris, visit a sea lion or parrot show, explore a petting zoo for children or take a boat trip on a lake. There is also an adventure playground, restaurants and souvenir shops where you can buy local products and souvenirs.
Betancuria
Betancuria is a charming village on the island of Fuerteventura with a rich history and cultural significance. It is located in the centre of the island, surrounded by a stunning landscape of mountains, ravines and fertile farmland. The village was once the capital of Fuerteventura and is named after the conqueror Jean de Béthencourt, who conquered the island in the 15th century. Betancuria is home to traditional Canarian architecture, narrow cobbled streets and picturesque whitewashed houses. The village exudes a quiet and authentic atmosphere.
Places of interest in Betancuria
Santa Maria Church: One of the most remarkable buildings in Betancuria is the Santa Maria Church. It was built in the 17th century and is particularly known for its beautiful architecture and religious artwork. The interior of the church is decorated with religious paintings, carvings and religious relics.
Casa Museo de Betancuria:This museum is located in a restored traditional Canarian house and offers an insight into the history and culture of Betancuria. On display are exhibits about traditional life on the island, handicrafts and historical artefacts.
Monastery of San Buenaventura: The historic monastery of San Buenaventura dates back to the 17th century and is an important part of Betancuria's cultural heritage. The monastery now houses the Betancuria Archaeological Museum with a collection of artefacts dating from prehistoric times to the Spanish conquest of the island.
Mirador Morro Velosa: Although not located directly in Betancuria, the viewpoint is definitely worth a visit. It is located near the village and offers a breathtaking panoramic view over the valley of Betancuria, the surrounding mountains and the impressive volcanic landscape. There is also a visitor centre at the viewpoint where you can learn more about the island's nature and history.
La Alcogida Handicraft Centre: Near Betancuria is the La Alcogida Handicraft Centre, a living open-air museum that shows traditional rural life on Fuerteventura. Here you can visit restored farmhouses, workshops and agricultural facilities and learn about the island's traditional crafts.
Tindaya
The striking mountain of Tindaya rises majestically from the flat landscape of the northern island - some 400 metres above sea level, after all. Tindaya is a sacred place for the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, called Mahos, and has a rich spiritual and cultural history. The granite mountain is known for its unique shape and smooth, rounded summit. The spectacular silhouette of the mountain attracts visitors and offers an impressive.
For the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, Tindaya was a sacred place of great importance. It is believed that the mountain is associated with spiritual energy and symbolism. Petroglyphs have been found in the rock formations of the mountain, indicating a long history of ritual and spiritual activities. For the Mahos, Tindaya was a place of communication with the ancestors and connection to the divine world.
The cultural significance of Tindaya has caused controversy in the past. A project to erect a sculpture by artist Eduardo Chillida on the top of the mountain met with opposition from environmentalists and cultural activists who wanted to protect the sacred nature of the mountain. The project was eventually not realised and Tindaya has remained a protected site to this day.
Calderón Hondo
Calderón Hondo is an extinct volcano near Lajares in the north of the island. With a height of about 278 metres, it offers an impressive view of the surrounding landscape and the sea. For hikers and nature lovers, the Calderón Hondo is a popular destination. A well-marked hiking trail leads to the summit of the volcano. The climb is relatively easy and doable for most visitors. As you climb, you can admire the spectacular landscape and volcanic formations around the volcano.
Once at the top, there is an impressive view of Calderón Hondo. The volcano's crater has a diameter of about one kilometre and is surrounded by a high, bowl-shaped rim. The crater wall is covered with vegetation, which forms an interesting contrast to the surrounding barren landscape.
Inside Calderón Hondo you will find a variety of plant species, some of which are endemic. The volcanic soil provides favourable conditions for plant growth and so a surprising variety of flora and fauna can be found here. Calderón Hondo also offers an excellent opportunity to explore the geological history of Fuerteventura. The volcano was formed about 20,000 years ago and its activity has left a lasting mark on the island's landscape. The basalt rocks and lava flows around the volcano are witnesses to the volcanic activity.
Arco de las Peñitas
The arch of Las Peñitas, also known as the natural monument "Arco de las Peñitas", is an impressive geological formation on the west coast of the island near the town of Ajuy. The rock arch was formed by the erosion of wind and water. It spans the sea and forms an imposing backdrop. The arch is made of volcanic rock that has been shaped by wind, sea and tides over millions of years. The surroundings of the Arco de las Peñitas are also impressive. Here you will find steep cliffs, caves and natural sea pools. The landscape is characterised by black lava rocks and the powerful surf of the Atlantic. This place offers spectacular photo opportunities and is ideal for experiencing the rugged beauty of the Fuerteventura coast. To get to Arco de las Peñitas, you have to take a short but somewhat strenuous walk over the cliffs. It is advisable to wear sturdy shoes and to be careful as the paths can sometimes be stony and slippery. The unique combination of impressive rock formation, roaring sea and dramatic coastal scenery makes it a popular destination for nature and photography lovers.
Barranco de los Enamorados
The Barranco de los Enamorados, also called the "Ravine of the Enamoured" or "Ravine of the Enchanted", is a remarkable geological formation in the north of the island, south-east of El Cotillo. It was named after an atmospheric phenomenon called Bayuyo, which was named so by the indigenous people of Fuerteventura, the Mahos. When banks of fog formed around the barranco at the summer solstice, the Mahos believed that they were the ancient spirits of the enchanted. The rock walls of the gorge have taken on bizarre shapes due to rain and air. There are marine fossils and the remains of millions of land molluscs found only here. In 2008, the gorge was declared a cultural asset because of its palaeontological, geological, scenic and historical value. The gorge is located in the municipality of La Oliva, bordering Morro de los Jablitos to the north and Los Lajares, El Cotillo and Tindaya to the south - and is accessible from each of these places.
Punta Pesebre
The most south-westerly point of the island is marked by the inconspicuous beacon of Punta Pesebre. Not much bigger than a small garden shed and with solar panels on the roof. A somewhat bizarre find on an imposing cliff that offers a view of one of the wildest coasts on the island and much further west. Below Pesebre lies Caleta de la Madera with its sometimes metre-high surf waves, and on clear days Cotillo can be seen from here. A rugged spectacle that will captivate nature lovers and photographers in particular. But hiking enthusiasts also enjoy the solitude of this dramatic scenario, which is around 24 kilometres away from Morro Jable.
Isla de Lobos
Isla de Lobos, also known as Lobos Island, is a small uninhabited island off the north coast of Fuerteventura - named after the monk seals (Lobos marinos) that used to live on its shores. Lobos is a protected natural park, famous for its unspoilt beauty and diverse ecosystems. The island is about 4.5 square kilometres and can be reached by boat from Corralejo.
Lobos offers beautiful natural beaches, such as Playa de la Concha on the east side. Ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Hiking is also very popular on Lobos. One of the most notable hiking routes is the path to the top of Montaña La Caldera, which offers panoramic views of the island. The waters around Lobos Island are rich in marine life, making it a popular place for snorkelling and diving. The underwater landscape is characterised by volcanic formations, rocky reefs and vibrant marine ecosystems.
Visitors to Lobos Island can explore at their own pace as there are no paved roads or vehicles on the island. It is important to note that visitor numbers on Lobos are regulated due to its protected status and a permit is required to visit. This helps to protect the fragile ecosystem and preserve the natural beauty of the island.