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Fuerteventura, in addition to its volcanic landscapes and rich heritage, boasts a deeply rooted sporting culture that stems from ancestral lifestyles and traditions. The traditional sports of the Canary Islands, such as Lucha Canaria and Juego del Palo (stick fighting), are an integral part of the island’s identity and are proudly practiced by locals, perpetuating ancient customs while adapting them to the modern era. La Lucha Canaria: An Emblematic Sport of Fuerteventura and the Canary Islands La Lucha Canaria, or Canarian wrestling, is the most iconic traditional sport of the Canary Islands. This discipline features two wrestlers, known as luchadores , who face off using balance-disrupting techniques to make their opponent touch the ground. Though it is a physical sport, La Lucha Canaria places great emphasis on respect, fair play, and self-control. The rules are straightforward: any contact with the ground other than the feet signifies defeat for one of the wrestlers. Tracing its roots back to the practices of the Canary Islands’ first inhabitants, this style of wrestling once served as a form of physical preparation and training for real-life confrontations. Techniques and Practices of La Lucha Canaria La Lucha Canaria is based on traditional techniques passed down through generations. Wrestlers use specific holds and movements designed to unbalance their opponent. These often spectacular techniques are performed with precision and remarkable skill. Dressed in traditional costumes consisting of sturdy shorts and a jersey, the wrestlers honor this art form with deep respect for its customs. La Lucha Canaria Today: Competitions and Tournaments Today, La Lucha Canaria is organized around local and regional leagues, with tournaments regularly held across Fuerteventura. Teams from each island compete in a spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship, making these events both festive and unifying. Matches take place in local arenas known as terrenos de lucha , where spectators of all ages gather to cheer on their favorite teams. Where to Watch La Lucha Canaria in Fuerteventura If you want to experience this traditional sport firsthand, there are several places in Fuerteventura: Puerto del Rosario : The capital’s wrestling arena hosts public competitions and is one of the most popular spots to watch La Lucha Canaria. Antigua and La Oliva : These municipalities also have wrestling clubs where you can attend matches, especially during patron saint festivities and cultural festivals. Demonstrations and competitions are often scheduled during local events, giving visitors a chance to immerse themselves in this unique sporting tradition. La Lucha Canaria: A Living Cultural Heritage La Lucha Canaria embodies the spirit of the Canary Islands, blending strength, technique, and respect. The people of Fuerteventura take great pride in this sport, seeing in it a living link to their past. By attending a match, spectators discover an ancient heritage that, while modernized, still retains its cultural value and symbolic significance. E l Juego del Palo: The Ancestral Martial Art of the Canary Islands El Juego del Palo, or “the stick game,” is a traditional martial art originating in the Canary Islands, deeply rooted in the history and culture of the archipelago. Inherited from the defensive practices of the islands’ first inhabitants, this sport involves simulated combat where each participant uses a wooden stick to strike their opponent without causing injury. The game combines skill, precision, and speed, resulting in an impressive display of mastery and control. Techniques and Mastery Each fighter chooses a stick suited to their height, ensuring a balanced assessment of each participant’s skills. While the combat may look spectacular, it is not violent: strict safety rules govern movements to prevent dangerous contact. El Juego del Palo focuses on fluid, precise actions aimed at deflecting or controlling the opponent while maintaining distance. Discipline and mutual respect are at the heart of this sport, in which stick-handling skills and speed of execution are essential. Styles and Variations of El Juego del Palo Different styles of El Juego del Palo have developed throughout the Canary Islands, with each island showcasing its own specific techniques and movements. Some styles use longer sticks and rely on deflection, while others favor shorter sticks and rapid motions. This diversity makes every demonstration unique, highlighting how this art adapts to each island’s local culture. El Juego del Palo Today: A Preserved and Celebrated Art Although El Juego del Palo is no longer practiced as a method of self-defense, it has been modernized and passed down from generation to generation. Today, it’s most often seen in demonstrations during local festivals and cultural events, allowing spectators to discover this fascinating tradition. Festivities in Puerto del Rosario, Antigua, and La Oliva on Fuerteventura are ideal occasions to watch these performances, where groups of practitioners showcase their skill and agility with the stick. El Juego del Palo is more than just a martial art: it is a symbol of Canarian cultural heritage, a link between past and present, continuing to inspire respect and admiration among both locals and visitors to the Canary Islands. El Salto del Pastor: The Shepherd’s Leap El Salto del Pastor, or the Shepherd’s Leap, is a unique traditional sport from the Canary Islands, born out of shepherds’ need to cross rugged, uneven terrain. Using a long wooden pole, they would jump from rock to rock or over ravines, relying on the pole to absorb the impact of their descent and help them climb back up. Technique and Skill Participants use a pole, known as a garrote , planting it firmly before making their leap. Mastering this jump requires perfect balance, precision, and significant agility. The length of the pole varies depending on the landscape: the steeper the ground, the longer the pole, allowing practitioners to clear substantial obstacles. A Traditional Art with Regional Styles Each Canary Island has developed its own style of El Salto del Pastor, adapted to its specific terrain. Fuerteventura, for instance, with its gentler slopes, focuses more on horizontal leaps and demonstrations of technique and precision, while more mountainous islands like La Palma emphasize downward jumps. El Salto del Pastor Today: Between Sport and Tradition Nowadays, El Salto del Pastor is showcased during festivals and local celebrations throughout the Canary Islands, often as a cultural demonstration. In Fuerteventura, these exhibitions are held during traditional festivities in towns such as Puerto del Rosario and Antigua, where skilled practitioners display their talents and share the history of this fascinating sport. El Salto del Pastor, beyond being an athletic art form, embodies human adaptation to the Canarian environment, preserving the ingenuity and agility of the shepherds of the past. Canarian Boules Competitions: La Petanca La Petanca (or Canarian boules) is a local version of pétanque, deeply ingrained in Canary Island traditions and especially popular in Fuerteventura. This precision game involves throwing wooden or metal balls as close as possible to a small target known as the boliche . More than just a pastime, Petanca is truly a social sport, enjoyed by generations of Canarians in parks, squares, and on beaches. Rules and Techniques Petanca is typically played in teams, with each player aiming to position their balls closer to the boliche  than those of the opposing team. Unlike Mediterranean pétanque, some Canarian courts are slightly sandy, requiring adjustments in throwing force and technique. Strategy and accuracy are essential, and every throw is a careful balance of power and finesse. Petanca Today: A Social and Competitive Game Nowadays, Petanca is played both informally and in local tournaments, where clubs from Fuerteventura and other Canary Islands come together. Festivities in Puerto del Rosario and Corralejo often host competitions open to participants of all ages, giving visitors an opportunity to discover this welcoming tradition. More than just a sport, Petanca is a way for Canarians to gather and share in a friendly moment, reflecting their sense of community and festive spirit. The traditional sports of Fuerteventura—Lucha Canaria, Juego del Palo, Salto del Pastor, and Petanca—bear witness to the history, creativity, and adaptability of the Canary Islands’ inhabitants. Each practice embodies a unique facet of Canarian cultural heritage, preserved and shared during festivals and gatherings. These sports continue to bring communities together and pass on values of respect, skill, and camaraderie to the next generations. For visitors, these traditions offer a window into the island’s deeper spirit.

Fuerteventura, a jewel of the Canary Islands, experienced an exceptional year in 2024. With its pleasant climate, idyllic beaches, and diverse tourism offerings, the island has solidified its position as a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide. Here's a summary of the key figures and highlights of this record-breaking year, compared to the overall performance of the Canary Islands. Significant Growth in Air Traffic Fuerteventura Airport recorded a remarkable increase in passenger traffic in 2024: 6.45 million passengers passed through the airport, marking a 7.1% rise compared to the previous year. The total number of flights reached 52,032 operations, reflecting a 5.6% increase. In comparison, the Canary Islands as a whole welcomed 16.5 million tourists, with an overall growth of 8%. While Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote remain the most popular destinations, Fuerteventura stands out for its steady growth and specialization in outdoor activities. A Historic Economic Performance Tourism proved to be a key economic driver for Fuerteventura in 2024: The sector generated nearly €3 billion in revenue, reaching unprecedented levels. During the third quarter, tourism revenues hit €760 million, showing a 1.1% increase compared to 2023. Across the Canary Islands, total tourism revenue reached €19 billion, underscoring the archipelago's importance in the travel industry. Fuerteventura significantly contributed to this success through its unique positioning. Increased Visitor Satisfaction In 2024, tourists expressed high levels of satisfaction with their stay in Fuerteventura: Over 25% of visitors stated that their experience on the island exceeded their expectations. Highlights included the beaches, outdoor activities, and the warm hospitality of the locals. While the Canary Islands enjoy high visitor satisfaction overall, Fuerteventura stands out for its quality infrastructure and tranquil atmosphere, attracting travelers seeking relaxation and authenticity. Accommodations in Fuerteventura and the Canary Islands Fuerteventura strikes a balance between apartment or villa rentals and hotel stays: In 2024, 60% of tourists in Fuerteventura chose apartments or villas, reflecting an 8% increase from the previous year. This type of accommodation is particularly popular among families and independent travelers. Hotels hosted 40% of visitors, showing a 5% growth due to enhanced services and new premium offerings. Across the Canary Islands, hotels dominate with 65% of stays, while independent accommodations (villas and apartments) account for 35%, but have seen an overall 10% increase, highlighting a growing interest in personalized travel experiences. North vs. South Tourism Distribution Fuerteventura offers a well-balanced tourism distribution between the island's north and south regions: 55% of tourists choose the south, drawn to iconic beaches like Sotavento and luxury hotel complexes. The region saw a 6% rise in visitation compared to 2023. The north attracts 45% of visitors, thanks to popular destinations such as Corralejo, El Cotillo, and Lobos Island. Tourism in this region grew by 8%, driven by activities like kitesurfing and boat excursions. This balanced distribution demonstrates Fuerteventura's ability to cater to diverse preferences, from relaxation in the south to sports and cultural activities in the north. Fuerteventura’s Beaches in the Spotlight The island’s fame is also built on its spectacular beaches: Sotavento Beach in Jandía was ranked second among Spain's most popular beaches. Surfing and kitesurfing spots continue to draw water sports enthusiasts from around the world. By contrast, Tenerife and Lanzarote attract lovers of volcanic landscapes, while Gran Canaria is known for its urban beaches. Fuerteventura remains a paradise for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Looking Ahead to 2025 With such a successful 2024, Fuerteventura and the Canary Islands are poised to continue this momentum in 2025. New initiatives are set to enhance visitor experiences, focusing on sustainability and eco-tourism. If you're planning to visit the Canary Islands this year, you'll find a thriving destination offering authentic experiences and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring unforgettable memories.

Fuerteventura, known for its golden sandy beaches and breathtaking volcanic landscapes, has another equally fascinating side: its markets. The island’s markets are the perfect opportunity to discover local crafts, taste fresh produce from local agriculture, or simply enjoy a stroll in the typical Canary Island atmosphere. Whether you're looking for unique souvenirs or regional products, here’s a selection of Fuerteventura’s must-visit markets. — Corralejo: Lively Markets by the Sea Corralejo, one of the island's most popular seaside resorts, offers several markets where you can find countless treasures. Campanario Artisan Market Located in the charming El Campanario shopping center, this market is perfect for a relaxed morning after breakfast on one of the local terraces. When:  Every Thursday and Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Handcrafted goods, handmade jewelry, souvenirs, and often live music to enhance the atmosphere. Baku Traditional Market This open-air market near the Baku water park is ideal for bargain hunters seeking textiles or local crafts. When:  Every Tuesday and Friday, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Crafts, local products, clothing, and decorative items. — Lajares: The Bohemian Market The artisan market in Lajares is a vibrant place full of creativity, perfect for art and culture enthusiasts. When:  Every Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Jewelry, paintings, handmade clothing, and art objects. — El Cotillo: A Market in an Authentic Village Famous for its beaches and relaxed vibe, El Cotillo also hosts a market that reflects its rustic charm. Artisan Market Nestled in Plaza del Cotillo, this market offers a picturesque setting to discover unique local creations. When:  Every Friday, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM What you’ll find:  Ceramics, handmade jewelry, and artisan products. — La Oliva: Where Culture Meets Tradition The village of La Oliva, the former seat of the island's governors, hosts an artisan market in a historically rich setting. La Oliva Artisan Market Located in the heart of the village, this market is perfect for exploring traditional Canarian craftsmanship. When:  Every Tuesday and Friday, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Handcrafted goods, handmade items, and local specialties. — Puerto del Rosario: Three Markets to Discover the Capital Farmers’ Market When:  Every Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM Where:  Avenida Ruperto González Negrín What you’ll find:  Fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, honey, and other local products. Artisan Market at Plaza de los Príncipes When:  Every Thursday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM Where:  Plaza de los Príncipes What you’ll find:  Local crafts, souvenirs, and handmade goods. Puerto del Rosario Flea Market When:  Every Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM Where:  Congress Center parking lot What you’ll find:  Second-hand items, clothing, books, and collectibles. — Caleta de Fuste: An International Atmosphere African Market Perfect for fans of African textiles and crafts, this market offers a unique experience. When:  Every Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Jewelry, textiles, and African souvenirs. Artisan Market In the Atlantico Shopping Center, you’ll find unique souvenirs crafted by local artisans. When:  Every Tuesday and Thursday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Local crafts, handmade jewelry, and decorations . — Tindaya: An Authentic Market This artisan market celebrates local craftsmanship, perfect for discovering regional specialties. When:  The first Sunday of each month, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Local crafts and regional products. — Tetir: A Must-Visit Gathering This eclectic market brings together crafts and fresh products, offering a unique experience with every visit. When:  The first Sunday of every month, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Local crafts, fresh products, antiques, and second-hand items. — Antigua: Immersion in Canarian Heritage This market immerses you in traditional Canarian craftsmanship, ideal for culture enthusiasts. When:  Every second Sunday of the month, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Traditional crafts, ceramics, Canarian fabrics. — Vega de Río Palma: A Small Market in a Natural Setting Located in a lush setting, this market highlights local crafts and fresh products. When:  Every second Saturday of the month, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Artisan and local products. — La Lajita: A Small Local Market This traditional market offers a mix of fresh products and crafts in a warm atmosphere. When:  Every Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Fresh products, crafts, local items. — Costa Calma: A Market for Discovery Enthusiasts This colorful market highlights the richness of African craftsmanship, perfect for those who love to explore. When:  Every Wednesday and Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  African crafts, clothing, handmade items. — Morro Jable: The Soul of the South The south of Fuerteventura, with its seaside resort of Morro Jable, also hosts markets with a more relaxed atmosphere, reflecting the tranquil vibe of the area. Morro Jable Market This market is perfect for those looking for handmade products while enjoying the idyllic seaside setting. When:  Every Thursday, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM What you’ll find:  Textiles, souvenirs, local crafts. Morro Jable Artisan Market This night market is ideal for an evening stroll to discover local crafts. When:  Every Monday and Friday, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM What you’ll find:  Jewelry, decorations, handcrafted creations. Why Visit Fuerteventura’s Markets? The markets of Fuerteventura are not just places of commerce but spaces for cultural discovery. You’ll find handcrafted items, typical Canarian products, and the opportunity to interact directly with artisans and producers. Each market has its own unique atmosphere, and a visit will allow you to bring home an authentic piece of the island. Whether you're seeking original souvenirs or simply curious about local crafts, these markets provide a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local life. Don’t miss them during your next trip to the island!

Welcome to the Blog of La Oliva Conciergerie in Fuerteventura! Whether you’re visiting the island or simply curious to learn more, this blog is here to guide you in your discovery of Fuerteventura. Each week, we will share practical tips, travel advice, and insights about local businesses that bring this unique island to life. From golden sandy beaches to local traditions and hidden spots known only to locals, we invite you to explore Fuerteventura in a whole new way. Stay tuned to make sure you don’t miss anything! Located in the Canary Islands archipelago, just a few hundred kilometers off the African coast, Fuerteventura is an enchanting island that stands out for its diverse landscapes and rich natural heritage. Nicknamed "the island of eternal spring" for its mild, sunny climate year-round, Fuerteventura is a haven for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility. With its 150 kilometers of beaches, Fuerteventura boasts some of the most beautiful shores in Europe. From the white sands and turquoise waters of Corralejo's beaches to the hidden coves of El Cotillo and the vast dunes of Corralejo Natural Park, the island offers breathtaking coastal landscapes. It's no wonder that Fuerteventura was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009 for its unique biodiversity and conservation efforts. But Fuerteventura is not just about the sea. The island's interior reveals a fascinating volcanic world with rugged mountains, picturesque traditional villages, and a deeply rooted local culture. The island also charms visitors with its artisanal and gastronomic traditions, as well as its small markets where you can discover local products like goat cheese, pottery, and aloe vera (an article about the different markets is coming soon). Fuerteventura is also a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Its constant winds and powerful waves make it one of the world's top spots for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and surfing. Whether along the coast or inland, the island offers endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, or exploring its many natural parks. Lastly, Fuerteventura stands out for its peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of major tourist destinations. Here, time seems to flow more slowly, in tune with the tides and trade winds, making it the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. After this broad introduction to the island, let’s dive into the heart of its iconic northern villages, each offering a unique experience through its landscapes and distinct atmosphere: Corralejo, Villaverde, El Cotillo, and Lajares. These destinations, where our apartments are located, reveal the true charm of Fuerteventura. Corralejo: The Coastal Energy Corralejo, one of the most popular spots on the island, is a highly sought-after seaside resort. With its impressive dunes and natural park, it is a must-visit for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, such as kitesurfing and windsurfing. Corralejo’s port also offers crossings to Lobos Island, a natural reserve perfect for a day trip. Lajares: The Artistic Soul of Fuerteventura Lajares is a vibrant and bohemian village located halfway between Corralejo and El Cotillo. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, it is a haven for artists, artisans, and surfers. The weekly craft market attracts visitors eager to discover local creations, such as jewelry, clothing, and artworks. With its charming cafés and friendly vibe, Lajares is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Villaverde: The Tranquil Oasis Just a few minutes' drive from Corralejo, Villaverde is a charming rural village surrounded by volcanoes and natural landscapes. It is the ideal destination for those seeking peace and quiet while staying close to the main attractions in the north of the island. The village is also renowned for its restaurants, which serve high-quality local cuisine. E l Cotillo: The Authentic Seaside Charm El Cotillo is a former fishing village, now famous for its stunning beaches and bohemian atmosphere. Its turquoise lagoons make it a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation. It is also a prime location to watch breathtaking sunsets. El Tostón Fort, an old military structure, offers an incredible view of the coast. Conclusion Fuerteventura, and especially the villages of Lajares, Corralejo, Villaverde, and El Cotillo, provide a variety of experiences for those looking to explore the island from different perspectives. Whether you're seeking idyllic beaches, water sports, or a deep dive into local culture, these communities are sure to captivate you.

Fuerteventura, the oldest of the Canary Islands, was born approximately 20 million years ago from intense volcanic eruptions. Its formation dates back to the Miocene epoch, a period during which tectonic plates triggered the emergence of underwater volcanoes. These eruptions gradually built a landmass, now known as Fuerteventura, which rises above the Atlantic Ocean. A Landscape Shaped by Time: Once Majestic Mountains The mountains of Fuerteventura were once far more imposing than they are today. Initially, some peaks may have reached altitudes of over 3,000 meters, rivaling the high summits of neighboring islands. Over millennia, erosion caused by powerful winds, rare but intense rainfall, and climatic variations gradually wore down these volcanic rock formations. Today’s mountains, such as the Betancuria range and the Jandía mountains, are mere remnants of these once-impressive landforms. Betancuria, for instance, is modest in height now but represents the oldest geological core of the island. This massive erosion also created the vast plains and plateaus characteristic of Fuerteventura, along with valleys and gorges that bear witness to the ongoing action of natural forces. In essence, this eroded terrain offers visitors a geological lesson, revealing layers of solidified lava and ancient structures where remnants of Fuerteventura's intense and monumental volcanic past can still be observed. The Last Eruptions: The Formation of Northern Fuerteventura and Lobos Island The last major volcanic eruptions on Fuerteventura occurred around 5,000 years ago, drastically transforming the landscape of the island's northern region. Before these events, this part of Fuerteventura and the neighboring Lobos Island did not exist in their current forms. Lava flows and explosive eruptions expanded the land, shaping the volcanic landscapes we see today. Lobos Island, a small volcanic islet off the coast of Corralejo, is a direct result of this intense geological activity. With its iconic crater, the Caldera Volcano, it stands as a remnant of this recent volcanic epoch. Northern landscapes, home to the Bayuyo and Calderón Hondo volcanoes, also illustrate this late phase of geological formation. This activity gave rise to fertile lands and impressive geological features, contributing to the unique ecosystem of northern Fuerteventura. Today, these areas serve as symbols of the island’s geological and natural heritage, attracting numerous visitors and researchers eager to explore. A Unique Canary Ecosystem: The Legacy of Resource Overuse Despite its resilient ecosystem, Fuerteventura was once far greener and richer in natural resources. Its volcanic soils once supported fertile lands for agriculture and livestock. Over centuries, however, deforestation for firewood, overfarming, and intensive grazing led to the gradual degradation of the environment. The consequences of this overexploitation have been profound: the loss of vegetation accelerated soil erosion, gradually transforming the island into its current arid landscape. Forests vanished, taking with them soil moisture and contributing to the dry climate. However, local species adapted to these extreme conditions, resulting in a unique biodiversity that includes drought-resistant endemic plants like the Canary spurge and various acacia species. Today, preservation efforts aim to protect this delicate ecosystem and encourage the growth of native vegetation. Reforestation initiatives and the protection of natural areas, such as the Corralejo Natural Park, strive to restore parts of the environment. This fragile balance between conservation and natural adaptation makes Fuerteventura a powerful example of the impact of human activity on island ecosystems. The Island Today: Biodiversity Preservation and Protection Fuerteventura is now an example of balance between environmental preservation and tourism development. Local authorities have implemented significant measures to protect native wildlife and flora, including restricting access to ravines to encourage the nesting of endemic and migratory birds. These areas, crucial for the reproduction of species such as the Cory’s shearwater, are monitored and protected to ensure safe spaces free from human disturbance. Additionally, Fuerteventura actively participates in reforestation and natural restoration programs. Conservation efforts include environmental awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of natural habitats for the island’s ecosystem. Reserves like the Corralejo Natural Park and other protected areas help maintain the island’s unique biodiversity, which features flora and fauna specially adapted to arid conditions. These actions reflect the island’s commitment to conservation, enhancing its appeal as an eco-responsible destination respectful of the environment. Fuerteventura, with its volcanic origins and history of adaptation, embodies the power of nature against the elements and the passage of time. From its ancient geological formation to its unique ecosystems, every aspect of the island tells a fascinating story. Stay tuned for next month’s exploration of the conquest period and how Fuerteventura's early inhabitants shaped its cultural identity—a tale of traditions and resilience not to be missed!