CORRALEJO
Area: Fuerteventura
Country: Spain


Location:
On the N tip of the island, facing the little islet of Los Lobos. 23 miles N of the capital, Puerto del Rosario. 26 miles N of the airport.

Telephone code from UK:
34

Position:
Exposed to the strong, fresh Atlantic breezes. The land slopes gently from low, bare hills down to the ocean.

Description:
Roughly 2 miles square, this is the largest resort on the island. The fishing village of Corralejo is still the heart, with newer buildings behind and to the side; a promenade with cafes and restaurants runs along the waterfront. Although mainly a mishmash of modern architectural styles, much of it is quite tastefully done, with low-rise structures set back a reasonable distance from the shoreline (as in accordance with local regulations). Development proceeds on a grand scale on the outskirts of town. There is little of interest in the resort itself, apart from the expansive views of ocean and sky, extensive beaches and lonely dunes.

Suitability:
If vast beaches and near-guaranteed sunshine (supposedly 350 days a year) are top priorities, Fuerteventura could be the place. Corralejo is the resort with the most nightlife and entertainments; it is, broadly speaking, a good middlemarket destination. The local tourist board are actively trying to encourage "hobby" tourists by highlighting certain outdoor pursuits within easy reach of Corralejo, such as walking in the mountains, horse-riding, windsurfing and diving.

Accommodation:
More apartments and aparthotels than anything else, the majority being modern, medium-sized and of moderate grading.

Shopping:
Central shopping street in town centre with many shops but limited variety. Large twice-weekly market. Local wickerwork, pottery and embroidery are easily found.

Beach:
The major attraction. 7 broad miles of fine golden sand with some smaller bays, starting 2 miles outside town; the waters are an intense shade of blue and clear. They are, however, affected by currents and are therefore unsuitable for small children. Beaches of the town are somewhat more sheltered and provide safer areas for children; most of these, however, have a band of volcanic rock along the waterline.

Entertainments:
Daytime: water sports, particularly windsurfing (challenging conditions); diving. Tennis and cycling are popular. Nightlife: Corralejo is the centre of the island's nightlife such as it is. Consists mainly of hotel-based sports bars with a dance floor, karaoke and quiz nights. A scattering of independent, mainly Spanish discos. Barely lukewarm compared with some Mediterranean resorts.

Eating:
A good if unexciting choice of restaurants and some friendly bars; fresh fish is the speciality.

Public-transport:
A small tourist "train" runs around the extensive resort. Frequent buses to Puerto del Rosario, with good service to El Cotillo. Ferries to Lobos Natural Park for day trips and Lanzarote for shopping trips.

Local-excursions:
Interesting island tours, which pass through some old, pretty villages such as Betancuria (former capital) and La Oliva (former seat of military governors, with old mansions). There are beaches _ over 150 of them _ which are considered among the best in Europe, with clear waters ideal for snorkelling and diving. The more remote ones are best reached by hire car. The islands of Lanzarote and Los Lobos are both reached by ferry from Corralejo.