Cycling through the rugged heart of Fuerteventura

Anyone who thinks of bicycles in the Canary Islands is right Tenerife, Gran Canaria and (to a slightly lesser extent) Lanzarote In mind. These three destinations have been immensely popular among cyclists for years who want to escape the cold and rain in Northern Europe for a warm winter sun. Each island has its own unique characteristics. Where Tenerife, of course, has ‘El Teide’, Lanzarote has been a favorite among triathletes for years. But one of the ‘snowbound’ islands is Fuerteventura. That means fewer people go there. So that’s very nice, because that makes it an ideal cycling destination. We’ll give you a little more information about why you should go to Fuerteventura to cycle.

Mountains and lunar landscape

Cycling through the wrinkled, coffee-colored mountains of the Parque Rural de Betancuria in the volcanic heart of Fuerteventura is like riding in the jaws of a giant crocodile. The white stone roadways wind along the cliffs, the road winds from the park’s jagged peaks to the black sea cliffs and the sparkling surf of the west coast.

Fuerteventura is a beautiful collection of geographical wonders. With every bend or climb, you see new natural beauty: from dark mountains to paradisiacal green cactus plantations and from desert dunes to rocky cliffs. In the end, as always, you end up on an island: on the beach. Fuerteventura, with its perfect cycling weather – an average of 20-28°C all year round, is really calling for you to explore it further.

Beautiful roads

One of the great advantages of cycling in Spain is the quality of the roads. Whether you choose to go on an adventure in Mallorca, on the Costa Blanca or in the Basque Country, The roads are of very good quality. The same applies to Fuerteventura, where you occasionally get a nearly taut billiard cloth. Enjoying the ride? Yes, of course! Add the wind, and you have the perfect mix for a unique cycling experience. Despite its windy reputation, Fuerteventura’s wind is usually a gentle breeze that offers the island a pleasant cooling, perfect for the balance on the warmer days during a long ride.

Where to start?

The route we have chosen, see at the bottom of this article, starts in the sun-drenched Caleta de Fuste and crosses the beautiful interior. The route takes us to the red earth and a landscape that reminds us of Mars. We actually encounter new surprises everywhere; from exotic cacti to strange iron sculptures that adorn the empty landscape. On the route you will not only encounter beautiful nature. Most of the routes around the island offer a combination of the bizarre nature and authentic villages. On our route we also pass by Triquivijate. With its charming houses that look like giant pots of crème brûlée, and the transition from a peaceful coastal path to a dramatic descent towards the deep blue ocean, it is a beautiful sight.

Up

On our way to the top, where monumental bronze statues of the island’s ancient kings stand, we are treated to panoramic views stretching to the horizon, making every climb worthwhile. Besides the villages and the natural beauty, the cuisine of Fuerteventura is also one to try. It is, naturally, rich in seafood and traditional Canarian dishes. Think of ‘papas arrugadas’ with a hot pepper sauce, or shrimp cooked in garlic and olive oil – the perfect post-ride snack.

Fuerteventura, with its raw beauty, wind, sun, and unique landscapes, awaits your exploration. The untamed nature, the wind whispering through the desert silence, and the endless roads that unfold in a spectrum of earthly colors make this island a must-visit destination for every passionate cyclist.

Useful tips

• Fuerteventura is one of the Canary Islands, which are geographically located off the coast of Morocco. Although a boat is an option (we don’t necessarily recommend it), flying to this island is almost the only option to get there. From Amsterdam, the best option is to go with Transavia. Easyjet also has direct flights.
• If you want to rent a quality bike, then Fuerteventura Bike Hire A nice option. They have one model, the Giant TCR, with an Ultegra group on it. That's more than enough.
• If you want to sleep in a real bike hotel, then Playaitas resort A nice option. A complete service center, guided tours. No more hassle. You’re also close to the natural park and the route we’re driving on.
• Another option is to book a location and bicycles through Cycling-Friendly. We have already done this once. Organization on the move They have been around for a long time and the locations and service guarantee quality. Here you will find all the information about The locations, including Hotel Royal Suites.

Cycling route through the rugged heart of Fuerteventura

Here is our route, which we borrowed from our friends at Cyclist Magazine and Komoot.