One of the most important tourist destinations, certainly for Brits and wind powered water sports enthusiasts. It has wonderful views to Lobos and Lanzarote, as well as 20sq kms of sand dunes located south-east of the town. The town beach (picture left) is very safe for children
French mercenary Jean de Betancourt, who claimed Fuerteventura for Spain, set up a permanent base here in the 15th century, Including a chapel around which the village grew. Visitors can still see ruins of the first monastery, plus museums and craft centers.
One of the best preserved villages on the Island. At the southern end of the village , the Hotel Rural Mahoh is worth a visit for its architecture and sculptured garden alone. Also the Cueva Villaverde, a cave formed by volcanic gases and lava measuring 190m long. There you will find an 'interpretation' centre with shop, museum and bar. Guided tours provide a fascinating look under Foerteventura's volcanic Skin. La Rosita, a former tobacco and maize farm, now a museum, is also worth a visit.
Formally the island's social, political centre. La Oliva is dominated by an 18th century bell tower whose black volcanic bulk contrasts sharply with the churche's bleached whit walls. A must-see is La Casa de los Coroneles -House of the Colones- a 300 year old farm house, more a foreign legion fortres than a simple house. This has recently been restored to it's former glory. Tinday mountain (left) is a few minutes drive form La Oliva and is said to be haunted.
Authentic Canarian handicrafts can be found in Lajares. The Lajares School of Embroidery is famous for its openwork embroidered tablecloths and serviettes, plus lace items. The school also houses an artesanis (craftshop). Two beautiful restored windmills near the church should also be visited. About 3kms out of town you will find the almost unspoilt fishing village of Mahanicho (pictured left).
Unfortunately, developers have tried to move in, but the building has been forced to stop thanks to environmentalists lobbying the government.