On the coast of Fuerteventura, the second largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, lies the cosmopolitan town of Corralejo. It’s a popular resort known for its natural beauty spots, from sandy dune beaches to rugged volcanic cones. Perhaps most famous are the Grandes Playas, seven miles of pristine coastline and large, shifting dunes that sweep down to the sea. They are home to exotic lizards, birds, and rabbits. Corralejo is also celebrated for its heritage as a former fishing village and hub of Canarian architecture, with iconic landmarks like La Casa de los Coroneles, the former seat of the island’s colonel, now an art gallery showcasing Corralejo’s rich cultural history.
Planning a short stay in Corralejo but unsure of where to start? Here’s the best way to spend a 3-day break.
Day One: Lobos Island
Embark on a day trip to Lobos Island, an unspoilt nature reserve 20 minutes from Corralejo harbour by ferry. It’s home to diverse flora and fauna, including blue-winged teals and white-cheeked pintails. Lobos Island is named after the “sea wolves” or monk seals that once populated the island when it was discovered by Spanish explorers of the Canaries in the fifteenth century. At the northeastern tip of the island is the Punta Martiño Lighthouse, which dates back to 1865 and makes it one of the oldest lighthouses in the Canaries. The lighthouse keeper and his family were the last permanent inhabitants of the island until the light became automated in the 1960s.
Similar to much of the Canaries, Lobos Island has a volcanic landscape estimated to be 6,000 to 8,000 years old, with Montaña la Caldera the highest point on the islet, at 127 metres above sea level. Hike to the summit of Montaña la Caldera for panoramic views of the neighbouring island of Lanzarote and the Atlantic Ocean stretching out towards the horizon. As a protected area, access to Lobos Islands is restricted to walking trails that are signposted as accessible to the public, so be mindful of the designated conservation areas as you make your way. Trails cross a landscape of salt marshes and hornitos, or small volcanic mounds, leading to Montaña la Caldera.
If you fancy a refreshing dip, check out Playa de la Concha, a small, crescent-shaped beach famous for its crystal-clear waters and white sands. This sheltered sea lagoon, which lies at the end of a bay formed by a jutting peninsula, is perfect for swimming due to the calm waters. It remains shallow for some distance, allowing you to spot marine life beneath the water’s surface. It’s also possible to book a catamaran excursion and cruise along the coastline, with activities such as snorkelling, paddle boarding, and kayaking available. You can even book a dolphin watching tour that follows the path of the dolphins, giving you a chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Day 2: Corralejo Natural Park
This preserved area, declared a natural park in 1982, is a vast expanse of undulating sand dunes, stretching over 10 kilometres from Puerto Remedio Beach to La Salina. Rent out a buggy and embark on a thrilling off-road adventure as you wind through the rolling sand dunes. Along the way, stop off at Montaña Roja, a dormant volcano 314 metres high, which towers over Playa Blanca in the far south of Lanzarote. The hike up the volcano takes approximately 40 minutes and once you reach the summit you can soak up the stunning vistas to the Punta Pechiguera Lighthouse, and across Los Ajaches Natural Park to the Papagayo region.
Every November since 1987, an international kite festival has been held in Corralejo Natural Park. It attracts kite flyers from all over the world who come together to enjoy the dazzling display of colour and movement. Other sports that are popular in Corralejo Natural Park include windsurfing and kiteboarding, particularly in Playa del Médano, a stretch of golden beach along the Grandes Playas de Corralejo. For adrenaline junkies who enjoy water sports, try out a jet ski tour along the coast and experience the exhilarating rush of riding the waves at high tide. Round up your day of adventure by enjoying the magnificent view of the sun slowly setting behind the volcanoes and dunes that dot the landscape, painting the sky in streaks of marigold and violet.
Day 3: La Oliva
For a dose of culture, take a day trip from Corralejo to the nearby town of La Oliva, just a 20-minute drive southwest. La Oliva is steeped in history, with its roots dating back to the end of the Spanish Reconquista in the late fifteenth century. Explore the town’s charming streets lined with traditional Canarian architecture, and discover famous landmarks such as the seventeenth century Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria, a historic church featuring a large collection of paintings by Spanish painter of the Baroque period, Juan Carreño de Miranda. Don’t forget to visit the church’s bell tower (made of volcanic rock), which historically served as a watchtower to protect Fuerteventura against pirate attacks! Finish up the day by immersing yourself in La Oliva’s vibrant cultural scene by visiting local craft shops for souvenirs, or simply relaxing in one of the quaint cafés on the high street and enjoying some authentic Spanish cuisine.
Experience the great outdoors with a visit to the Malpaís de la Arena Natural Monument, a protected area of lava fields formed from the remains of volcanic activity that occurred in Fuerteventura some 10,000 years ago. The area has largely remained untouched and is home to diverse plants native to the Canary archipelago, such as gorse and lichen. Get your steps in with a hike around the nearby Montaña de la Arena, a volcanic cone on the borders between La Oliva and Villaverde, which stands at 420 metres above sea level. From the summit of Montaña de la Arena, you can observe sweeping views of El Cotillo, Corralejo’s Dunes, and Lobos Island.
There you have it: three days exploring an area of natural beauty that you’ll never forget…
Where to Stay
Secrets Bahía Real Resort: This 5-star resort located on the beachfront is the recipient of multiple awards including five consecutive TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence. It features 2 outdoor pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens, 7 restaurants serving international à la carte and buffet-style cuisine, and a 3000-square metre spa with a hot tub and sauna. Set in a prime location, the rooms offer impressive views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Avanti Lifestyle Hotel: This stylish adults-only resort offers modern rooms with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a flatscreen TV. A spacious terrace gives you the chance to enjoy the balmy Canarian breeze in the privacy of your own space. With a chic Mediterranean aesthetic, the rooms are light, open, and airy and there’s a rooftop restaurant serving traditional Spanish fare. Located in the heart of the town, it’s only 20 yards from Corralejo Beach and 250 yards from Corralejo Viejo Beach.
Hotel Boutique La Marquesina: This boutique hotel boasts a large outdoor swimming pool and elegant, terraced rooms. Enjoy gorgeous sea views from your balcony, creating a serene retreat for your stay. Start your day with a delicious continental breakfast served every morning. Popular attractions such as Las Clavellinas and Charco de Bristol Beach are within walking distance from the resort.
How to Get There
Start your holiday off on the right foot by pre-booking a shuttle transfer from Fuerteventura Airport (FUE) to your accommodation in Corralejo. Several airlines operate direct flights from London to Fuerteventura Airport, including British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, TUI, and Iberia. The journey from London to Fuerteventura is about 4 hours and 17 minutes, and flights start from as little as £23. Once you’ve landed in Fuerteventura, the quickest and easiest way to reach Corralejo is to pre-book one of the services offered by Shuttle Direct. A friendly local driver will be at the airport waiting to drop you off at your accommodation as swiftly as possible.
Overview
UK to FUE flight time: 4 hours 17 minutes
FUE to Corralejo distance: 43 kilometres
Shuttle Direct transfer time: 58 minutes
Types of Transfer
When it comes to arranging your Fuerteventura Airport transfer to Corralejo, there are various types available to suit different kinds of travellers, budgets, and requirements. Whether you prefer the convenience of a taxi, the affordability of a shuttle bus, the privacy of a private transfer, or the flexibility of a minibus transfer, there’s an option for everyone.
Taxi: If you’re looking for a quick and hassle-free transfer from Fuerteventura Airport to Corralejo, a taxi is a good choice. Taxis are readily available at the terminal and offer a door-to-door service, making them ideal for travellers who value convenience. With an airport taxi, Fuerteventura to Corralejo is an easy trip in a direct transfer to your accommodation without any stops along the way.
Shuttle bus: For budget-conscious travellers who don’t mind sharing the ride with others, a shuttle bus transfer from Fuerteventura Airport to Corralejo is ideal. Shuttle buses operate on scheduled routes and make multiple stops at designated central stops to accommodate passengers travelling to different destinations. While shuttle buses may take slightly longer than other options due to the stops along the way, they offer a cost-effective airport transfer solution.
Private transfer: For those seeking privacy, comfort, and a personalised service, a private transfer from Fuerteventura Airport to Corralejo will serve you well. With a private transfer, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to a vehicle and the flexibility to customise your transfer according to your schedule and preferences. Whether you’re travelling solo, with a group, or as a couple, with a private transfer, Fuerteventura Airport to Corralejo is a seamless and stress-free journey.
Minibus transfer: If you’re travelling with a larger group or with lots of luggage, a minibus transfer offers ample space and comfort for all passengers. Minibus transfers are ideal for families, groups of friends, or corporate travellers who value comfort, convenience, and flexibility. With a minibus transfer from Fuerteventura Airport to Corralejo, you’ll enjoy the convenience of a door-to-door service and the peace of mind of knowing that you’ll arrive at your destination safely and comfortably.
Choosing the Right Transfer
Selecting the right transfer option for your journey from Fuerteventura Airport to Corralejo is a balance between cost and convenience. Fortunately, there are options to cater to both preferences.
Cost: For budget-conscious travellers looking to save money on their airport transfer, options such as a shuttle bus or minibus transfer offer an affordable solution. By sharing the ride with other passengers, you can split the cost of the transfer, making it a budget-friendly choice without sacrificing reliability or comfort. Pre-booking your transfer online also helps you to secure a better rate.
Convenience: Alternatively, if convenience is your top priority, private transfers or taxis provide a hassle-free and efficient way to reach your destination. With a private transfer, enjoy the luxury of a personalised service, flexible scheduling, and door-to-door transportation. Similarly, taxis offer the convenience of immediate availability and direct transportation to your accommodation, making them an excellent choice for travellers seeking convenience and peace of mind.
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct, we have over 20 years of experience in providing reliable airport transfers. Our extensive network of vehicles and drivers allows us to offer a wide range of transfer options to suit every traveller’s needs and preferences. With easy online booking, flexible scheduling, and professional drivers, we ensure a seamless transfer experience. Trust Shuttle Direct for your next journey.
