Road trip through the heart of Fuerteventura – Best Places to visit
If you want to explore the center of Fuerteventura, you must take this road trip that will take you through the heart and lungs of the second-largest island in the archipelago. This journey will show you that Fuerteventura has much more to offer than just the 3S (sea, sun, sand). You will discover beautiful villages that hold a wealth of heritage and culture.
Caleta de Fuste
One of the must-see places on this trip is Caleta de Fuste. Here, you will find the renowned Castillo de San Buenaventura, which dates back to the 18th century. This military construction features a circular tower that was built to defend the bay from corsair attacks. Just two kilometers away, you can visit the Salt Museum, which exhibits the artisanal production process of salt in the Salinas del Carmen.
Antigua
Another fascinating location to visit is Antigua, a complex that boasts high historical and artistic value that is reflected in its unique architecture, typical of the Canary Islands. The windmills are one of the defining features of the landscape, and their blades are moved by the soft and warm breeze of the trade winds. All of these elements make Antigua one of the most charming and endearing places in the Canary Archipelago.
Betancuria
Betancuria is a small town located in Fuerteventura, which was founded in 1404 and considered the first capital of the Canary Islands. The town is nestled in a valley surrounded by palm trees, making it the area with the most vegetation on the island. During a visit to Betancuria, tourists should not miss the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum of Betancuria, where they can see various objects and ceramics from the first aboriginal settlers of the island. The museum offers information panels that allow travelers to travel back in time.
The church of Santa María is also a must-visit attraction in Betancuria. The conquerors erected the first building of the church in 1410 following the guidelines of the 15th-century French Gothic style. Although the church was destroyed by pirates in 1593, the current building began to be built in the 16th century and combines various architectural styles such as Gothic, Renaissance, and some baroque elements.
Ajuy
The Ajuy neighborhood has a few houses, around 150 inhabitants, and some restaurants. Visitors who are looking for something different to see in Fuerteventura should visit the Caves of Ajuy, which are considered a natural monument and part of the Betancuria Rural Park. The caves stand out for their high geological, paleontological, and ethnographic value. The surroundings of Ajuy have a history mainly related to the extraction, exploitation, and exportation of lime, and visitors can see the lime kilns and the remains of the davit next to the small nearby jetty.
Aside from the caves, the Charcones of Ajuy are also worth a visit. These small natural pools with crystalline waters are located at the foot of a cliff, but they are less known as they are somehow apart and not easy to find. It’s recommended to visit the Charcones of Ajuy during low tide.
Tuineje
Tuineje is another beautiful place to visit in Fuerteventura, where visitors can find a harmonious mixture of tradition and modernity, accompanied by the charm of its people. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and those interested in traditions.
Gran Tarajal
The town of Gran Tarajal derives its name from the Canarian tamarisk tree, which is indigenous to the area. Its symbol is the image of a hump-shaped mountain, known as Punta del Camellito.
In 1953, the Gran Tarajal lime kiln was constructed, and it is one of the largest on the island.
Although it may be overlooked on a typical tourist route through Fuerteventura, the coastal town of Gran Tarajal is an attractive destination for travelers. Its promenade offers a wide range of gastronomic options, including the Fishermen’s Association (Cofradía de Pescadores), which serves freshly caught fish, as well as several bars and restaurants that serve Canarian and Italian cuisine.
During your road trip, you will come across several lookout points where you can stop to take beautiful pictures or simply enjoy the stunning views.
Check out also the best 10 Places to visit in the North of Fuerteventura.
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