The sand dunes and crystal clear waters of the Maldives or Bora Bora have long been the dream destinations for many holidaymakers, but being on the other side of the world and with a reputation for luxury can leave you with a hefty bill at the end of the trip.
Brits dreaming of a slice of paradise this summer might just find what they’re looking for without needing to splash out on pricey, long-haul trips to the Caribbean or Indian Ocean. An island with equally stunning ocean views and beaches lies much closer to home.
The dreamy sand dunes and crystal clear waters reminiscent of the Maldives or Bora Bora have been the ideal getaway for countless sun-seekers, but with such destinations being halfway across the globe, not to mention their luxury tag, you could end up facing a substantial bill when the holiday ends.
But now there’s a new kid on the block catching eyes across social media, leaving many stunned to discover that paradise needn’t be at the end of a long flight. Instead, it’s waiting at the sun-drenched coasts of Fuerteventura.
This Canary Island has often been overshadowed by its more famous siblings, Tenerife and Lanzarote, but Fuerteventura is making waves with its expansive sand dunes and inviting waters, earning it the moniker “mini Maldives”.
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Jetting off to this idyllic spot couldn’t be easier, with flights zipping straight from Gatwick, Luton, Manchester and various other UK hubs. Budget-friendly airlines including Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2 and others service the island’s main airport, meaning more cash in your pocket to enjoy once you touch down, reports the Express.
Famed for its volcanic sands, Fuerteventura boasts 150 km of pristine white beaches and tucked-away coves. So no matter where you’re bedding down on the island, breathtaking sea views are never far away. The sudden spotlight on the island has led to a surge in viral videos and clips across social media, with hundreds of comments pouring in from holidaymakers eager for a visit.
One past visitor commented under a video: “I was there last year twice… one of the most beautiful places on Earth,” while another chimed in: “It’s a lovely place having been so many times heading back in a few days,”.
But it’s not just the breathtaking landscapes that draw crowds; the island is also a hotspot for watersports enthusiasts. Thanks to consistent Atlantic winds, thousands of windsurfers and kitesurfers flock here, providing great beachside entertainment for those sipping cocktails.
Away from the beach, the island’s towns exude Spanish allure, with quaint fishing villages dishing up delectable local seafood.
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Tourists might also fancy a trip to the historic town of Betancuria, established way back in 1404. A wander around its centuries-old streets offers a peek into the island’s history beyond the tourist traps.
A trip to the island also promises almost guaranteed sunshine all year round. Located far south and just off the west African coast, the island enjoys plenty of sun, with peak summer temperatures hitting around 30C.
For those who find such scorching heat a bit too much, springtime in April sees milder mid-20s temperatures, while September and October average a comfortable 25C.