Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is the easternmost and second-largest island of Spain's Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa. It is renowned for its long white-sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, and persistent winds. The name Fuerteventura means "strong winds" in Spanish. The island has roughly 120,000 residents, with Puerto del Rosario as its capital and largest town; Corralejo and Morro Jable are major tourist centers.

Geographically, Fuerteventura is of volcanic origin with a relatively flat interior and low mountains. It is the driest of the Canaries, characterized by a hot desert climate with mild winters and hot summers, and very low rainfall. Seasonal winds and the surrounding Atlantic waters contribute to its popularity for windsurfing and other watersports.

The island contains several protected areas, including Corralejo Dunes Natural Park and Jandía Natural Park, which cover dune fields and rugged coastal landscapes. Lobos Island, a small nearby nature reserve, lies off the northern coast. The historic town of Betancuria, in the interior, preserves colonial-era architecture.

History traces back to the indigenous Majos, Berber-speaking inhabitants who occupied the island before European contact. It was conquered by Jean de Bethencourt for the Crown of Castile in the early 15th century and later integrated into Spain. The island's economy diversified from agriculture to tourism in the 20th century, and it remains heavily dependent on visitor services today.

Tourism remains the dominant economic activity, attracted by year-round sunshine, beaches and natural areas. Transport includes Fuerteventura Airport near Puerto del Rosario and regular ferries to nearby islands such as Lanzarote, linking the island to the wider archipelago. The road network and bus services connect resort towns with the interior.