The island of Fuerteventura is a popular holiday destination, nestled off the west coast of Africa. Positioned between Lanzarote and Gran Canaria in Spain’s Canary Islands, it enjoys fantastic year-round temperatures and plenty of sunshine. But while many head to the island to visit the bustling resort of Corralejo, not so many British tourists venture down south to the Jandia peninsula. And, as I discovered recently, we’re missing out.
Long a popular destination for German tourists, the beautiful southern tip of the island has some wonderful resorts, like the well developed Morro Jable (known locally as Jandia) and Costa Calma. But what is even more attractive, if you’re looking for a quiet family getaway or romantic break, are the miles of empty beaches and stunning scenery served by well spread out, fabulous all inclusive hotels.
Beautiful Beaches
Despite Fuerteventura meaning ‘strong wind’ the beaches along the southern coast of the peninsula are relatively protected, and the waters calm. If, however, you love the romance of rugged beaches it’s well worth taking a hike along the northern shore which is remote, windswept and beautiful.
Those looking for a beach to relax and play on, however, will not be disappointed. The beaches of the south offer great sunbathing as well as a full range of watersports activities. Be warned, however, all the beaches in this region are open to naturists, and it’s not unusual to see some bare bums amidst the usual sea of bikinis and trunks.
Playa de Matorral
The Playa de Matorral in Morro Jable is not only one of the region’s most popular beaches, it’s one of its longest. A three-kilometre stretch of wide golden sand lapped by the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants here to make it a perfect place to spend an entire day. The lighthouse is a great landmark to explore, it also marks the boundary between the resort’s naturist beach and the regular beach, so if you’re with children or have a delicate nature, it’s best not to stray too far.
Playa de Sotavento
The Playa de Sotavento lies to the south of Costa Calma and is a popular spot for the island’s keen kite boarders and windsurfers. At high tide the beach fills with water to create a stunning lagoon on which the boarders and surfers love to play – it’s a great sight to watch, even if you’re not brave enough to take part. At nine kilometres (it’s actually an amalgamation of five smaller beaches) Sotavento is the longest beach on the island.
Heavenly Sights
Much of the southern peninsula is made up of wild, rugged landscape protected as part of the Parque Natural Jandia; you can explore the stunning scenery on the various hiking trails which crisscross the region. Beyond the rugged coastal scenery you’ll discover highlights like the summit viewpoint of Pico de Zarza.
Pico de Zarza
While the landscape of Fuerteventura may, at first seem almost barren, a hike up to the island’s tallest peak (807m) from Morro Jable will soon bring you into contact with the peninsula’s fascinating flora and fauna. The five hour hike will also reward you with some of the most breathtaking views of the island. Just remember to take sun cream, a sunhat and plenty of food and water with you as there is very little shade on the route.
How to Get to the Jandia Peninsula
The only airport on the island is Fuerteventura (FUE) which, depending on where on the peninsula you are staying, is around an hour’s drive from Jandia. Flights to Fuerteventura take around four hours from the UK and are offered by a good range of airlines including British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, Iberia and Lufthansa.
The easiest and most convenient way to get from the airport to your destination in Jandia is to book a Shuttle Direct airport transfer online before you set off. A range of options for every budget, Shuttle Direct offers a wide choice from economical group shared transfers to a variety of private car services.
Where to Stay
Casa Marron – For a great budget option in Costa Calma Casa Marron offers basic self-catering apartments with a pool and sun terrace. Windsurfing and other watersports equipment are offered for an additional fee. There is paid-for wifi at the property.
Garden Beach – The stylish three-star Garden Beach in Morro del Jable is a great mid-price choice. Just two-minutes walk from the beach the villa/apartment complex has its own pool, hot tub and restaurant. There is free wifi in the public spaces and paid for internet connections in the apartments.
Fuerteventura Serenity Luxury B&B – The Fuerteventura Serenity Luxury B&B in Costa Calma is certainly worth busting the budget for. This palatial Bed & Breakfast has great views and plenty of sun terraces and a beautiful garden to enjoy them from. There’s a lovely outdoor pool and dining area and free wifi throughout the property.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is the leading provider of airport transfers in Europe and northern Africa, offering local, English-speaking drivers to deliver you to your holiday destination in comfort. Choose from a wide variety of travel options from scheduled coaches and group transfers to private cars ranging from budget to premium. Booking your transfer is easy using our straightforward, simple to use online booking service.
