Jandía Natural Park

Jandía Natural Park occupies the south of Fuerteventura, on the long peninsula that forms the island's southern tip, and it is the wildest part of an island that is already known for open space. The land narrows at the Istmo de la Pared, a low neck, and then broadens into a rugged mountain mass with steep ridges, dry valleys and a long, straight coast on the windward side. The highest point on Fuerteventura, the Pico de la Zarza, rises above 800 metres here, which makes it very high for an island whose land is otherwise flat or gently rolling. The park is part of the Fuerteventura Biosphere Reserve recognised by UNESCO.

Before the Spanish conquest, the island was divided into two territories, Maxorata in the north and Jandía in the south, and a stone wall across the isthmus marked the border. The original islanders, known as the Majos, left traces of their culture in the area. Today, the peninsula is known for its goats, which graze on the dry slopes, and for the cheese that comes from them. The plant life is adapted to drought and wind, and it includes a rare spurge, the cardón de Jandía, which grows only here and is a symbol of the park.

The north side of the peninsula faces the calm Sotavento coast, with shallow turquoise lagoons and a famous windsurfing area, while the south and west sides face the open Atlantic, with long beaches and big waves. The best-known stretch is the Playa de Cofete, a wide, wild beach that runs for many kilometres under the mountains, and it is exposed to strong currents, so swimming is dangerous. The tiny village of Cofete lies behind the beach. Above it, the isolated Villa Winter attracts curiosity, with stories about its builder, a German engineer, and unproven legends of wartime secrets.

Access to the western side is by a long dirt road over the mountain from Morro Jable, or by a rough track along the coast, and drivers should take care and check their rental conditions. The road gives dramatic views down to Cofete. At the western tip, the Faro de Punta Jandía lighthouse stands near a few fishing houses and a beach restaurant.

Bring water, food, sun protection and a jacket, as facilities are few and wind is constant. The park suits drivers, hikers, photographers and anyone who wants to see the island's uninhabited side. Sunset over the Cofete coast is a highlight.