With their wonderful weather and sparkling seas, the Canary Islands are a hugely popular holiday destination for tourists from all over. Perhaps the best of all these islands is Fuerteventura, the second largest and a real tourist favourite. Its name translates in English to ‘strong wind’, and it is sometimes known as ‘the island of eternal spring’ for its breezy, refreshing climate. It’s certainly warm in summer, but the Atlantic winds help keep the hot Saharan heat away.
All this makes Fuerteventura a perfect place for a family getaway – and Corralejo is definitely one of the best areas. One of two main tourist towns, this area on the northern tip of the island was declared a UNESCO biosphere in May 2009. Surveying its stunning landscape of white sands and volcanic rock, it’s easy to see why.
What’s more, this summer paradise also has a lot on offer for adventurous families. Read on for some of the best activities for fun-loving, thrill-seeking families.
Acua Water Park
Water parks are often a favourite on family holidays, and Acua is a great choice. Its mix of attractions ensure everyone will be satisfied – whether you prefer sipping a drink by the pool or hurtling down steep slides, there will definitely be something for you here.
Attractions include …
- Splash race
- Wave pool
- The steep kamikaze slide
- Free sunbeds
- Jacuzzis
Kitesurfing on Flag Beach
Opposite the picturesque, smaller island of Lobos, Flag Beach is one of the island’s top spots for sand and sun. There’s far more than just sunbathing on offer here, though. For a taste of water sport fun, why not book a kitesurfing session?
Fun for All Abilities
With group and individual lessons available, you can get out in the wind even if you’re new to kitesurfing. Equipment is available to hire or purchase, and conditions are perfect whether you’re a novice or a pro. Waves break in multiple directions here, and wind conditions are usually friendly but strong enough to get you in the air. Though not so popular for little kids, the teens will love this thrilling adventure.
Top Tip: Talk to experienced locals and kitesurfing teachers to get out on the water at the best times.
Boat Trip to Isla de Lobos
It’s less adrenaline and more introspection on this beautiful, untamed island. The 15-minute boat ride from Corralejo lets you feel the sea breeze in your hair, and some even have glass bottoms so you can observe the undersea world and watch the fish swim by.
Named after once-native monk seals, also known as sea wolves, Lobos is a rare untamed paradise. Danish crime writer Thomas Rydahl found himself inspired here, saying that ‘the complete and overwhelming feeling of being isolated and removed from society is so rare and gripping’ that he just had to feature the island in his debut novel. It’s the perfect place to take the family.
Fun fact: Lobos has had no permanent human inhabitants since its lighthouse was automated in the 1960s.
Corralejo Natural Park
Trade rocky ocean outposts for rolling white sand dunes at this enormous park. The burnt orange and red southern side gives way to serene, undulating beauty, and visitors are encouraged to wander and explore. Truly breath-taking, and ideal for families if you and the kids love nature.
Top Tip: If you can manage the hike, it’s well worth trekking the 300m up Montaña Roja, the Red Mountain volcano. Make sure to bring a camera to capture amazing shots of Lanzarote and La Graciosa across the water!
Where to Stay
Corralejo Surfing Colors Hotel & Apartments
Just 50 yards from Bristol Beach, this complex offers surfing lessons and free yoga sessions three times a week, as well as an outdoor swimming pool with free diving lessons. The bright and spacious apartments are furnished with a simple kitchenette, bathrooms and satellite TV.
Within five miles of El Burro Beach and mere steps away from Corralejo Viejo, each air-conditioned apartment here comes with a bedroom, kitchen, washing machine, bathroom and flatscreen TV. If you love the great outdoors, make use of the hiking equipment and bike rental facilities available.
How to Get There
Flights from London to Fuerteventura airport take just over four hours, and six airlines offer the route direct, with as many as 24 flights scheduled every week. Once you land, take a transfer from the airport to town to get there in less than an hour.
Overview
- UK to FUE flight time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- FUE to Corralejo distance: 41 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct transfer time: 40 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is Europe and North Africa’s best regarded airport transfer company, and our experienced and friendly drivers are guaranteed to get you where you need to go in comfort and without fuss. Book online today and save yourself and your family the stress at the airport.
