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Villa Winter

Villa Winter (Cofete National Park, Cofete) – this two-story structure, located near the village of Cofete (on the Jandia peninsula), and proximate to Pico de Zarza (the highest mountain in Fuerteventura), is not a typical tourist destination (and is only recommended for mystery seekers and nature enthusiasts looking for something different). Given its isolated location, it still merits mention for those passing through this part of the island. This villa was built by German engineer Gustav Winter in 1937 (at a time when Winter once leased the entire peninsula of Jandia from the Spanish government and had it declared a military zone). This villa, which looks more like a military outpost that the luxury homes seen at Ibiza or Mallorca (for example) has a balcony up front, and a tower with a lantern used as a beacon (something unusual for a residential “villa”). The vast basement has walls more than six-feet thick, and a tunnel-like space runs the entire length of the house with just a small window at one end.

This residence was shrouded in mystery as to its actual purpose during its early years of existence. A British newspaper alleged that Winter was a Nazi spy. Since Spain was ruled by fascist dictator Francisco Franco (who had a friendly relationship with Nazi Germany before and during World War II), there has been much speculation that this site was used as a way station for Nazi submarines that passed through the waters of the Canaries during that conflict (a rumor fueled by captured Nazi war documents mentioning the site as a possible fueling station for German submarines). An airstrip that existed between the villa and the coast also added speculation that Nazi military aircraft trafficked through there during World War II (and possibly facilitating the exodus of Nazi military officers fleeing their country from the last days of that conflict to start new lives in South America). Admission: donations accepted.

Torre del Tostón

Torre del Toston (El Cotillo, 35650 La Oliva) – for visitors looking for historic sites related to Fuerteventura’s efforts to defend itself against pirate attacks hundreds of years ago, this is a worthy one. Located on the northwest coast of the island, this tower, which was built in the 17th century to protect the island from such forays, got its nickname the “cheese tower” because of its round shape. The tower, which has two floors, was fitted with artillery components such as iron cannons as part of that defense. The Spanish authorities declared this site a Historic Monument of Cultural Interest in 1949. Admission: €1.50 per person. Hours: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm (weekdays), 9:00 am – 2:00 pm (weekends).

Museo de la Sal / Museo de Las Salinas del Carmen

Salt Museum / Museo de Las Salinas del Carmen (Barrio las Salinas 2, 35610 Antigua) – this museum gives visitors a look at one aspect of the island’s old economy: the commercial use of salt. Here, visitors can see an overview of the history of salt, its applications throughout the centuries and its use in different parts of the world. There are actual salt plains on the museum premises. That field is located near a deserted beach. Visitors can also purchase some of the processed salt (as a souvenir). Admission: €4 (adults and children above 10 years), €2.50 (children 4-10 years), free for children ages 0-3 years. Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm daily.

Faro de Punta la Entallada

Punta la Entallada Lighthouse (Highway FV-511, Las Playitas, Tuineje) – this Moorish style lighthouse, located on the east coast of the island (facing North Africa), was built in 1955 (despite its rustic look). Located on the outskirts of a village named Las Playitas, eco-tourists pass through here on their way to nearby eco-destinations like “Cuchillos de Vigán” (a protected natural reserve and mountainous area known for its flora & fauna). Wildlife spotted here include Egyptian vultures, Barbary Falcons and Ospreys.

Faro de Punta Jandía

Punta Jandia Lighthouse – located on the southernmost point of the island, this is an active 19-meter tall lighthouse that was originally built in 1864. Tourists can visit the museum inside the old lighthouse keeper’s home. There are five galleries with displays on Jandia Natural Park (detailing its natural history, including info on its flor & fauna). Hours: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm (Tuesday – Saturday only).

Poblado de la Atalayita

Poblado de la Atalayita (Carretera General de Pozo Negro, Pozo Negro, La Antigua) – this is a village of primitive stone homes that existed before the Spanish colonization of the Canaries. These dwellings were reputed used by the island’s aboriginal Majo people (who were said to be of North African / Berber origin). Such cave dwellings were later used by shepherds to corral their herds. The town has 115 structures of different types, such as houses called “casas hondas”, with a circular floor plan, and roofs made of malpais volcanic stones, and other larger houses – making this the largest archaeological site on the island. Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Tuesday – Saturday), closed on Sundays & Mondays.

Museo del Queso Majorero

Museo del Queso Majorero (Calle Virgen de Antigua, km 20, 35630 Antigua) – this museum is located in the Molino de Antigua complex in the mid-eastern area of Fuerteventura island. It’s unique in that it’s dedicated to a popular local food item: goat cheese. It’s an ideal place to wander through the picturesque gardens and visit the shop selling craftwork and local farm produce.

The museum has over 500 square meters of exhibition space, with panels providing detailed information in several languages. It also lets visitors discover the history of Fuerteventura’s farming and cheesemaking culture, with special emphasis on the Fuerteventura goat (cabra majorera) and its natural habitat. Admission: €4 (adults & children above age 10), €2.50 (children under 11 years). Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm daily