Tarajalejo

Nestled in the lee of a hillside, Tarajalejo, is located in the southeast of Fuerteventura island. Still very much a traditional seaside Canarian town, complete with its own customs, the town boasts a close-knit community and a fishing-based economy. There is also a beautiful beach which remains untouched by tourists. In the last few years the town has experienced a steady growth in its infrastructure with the construction of apartment blocks and modern hotels. However, if you are looking for authenticity, a short walk into the old town, originally an infinitesimal fishing hamlet, will provide you with ample opportunity to sample and witness local produce and craft. Although the town is beginning to generate an influx of tourists, often keen to hit the surf, it is still a quiet affair, which makes it the perfect location to get away from it all. How to get there There are currently no direct buses to Tarajalejo. Your best option is to travel to nearby Gran Tarajal which is served by buses 1, 10 and 18 from Puerto de Rosario and Pájara respectively (please see section on Gran Tarajal  for more information). If driving from the airport, follow the FV-2 southwards. Culture Make no mistake about it, the locals of Tarajalejo place a strong emphasis on diligence. Older generations still remember the days of no electricity and mains water when many parts of the island were subjected to poverty. This resolute nature has clearly been instilled in the elders’ children and grandchildren who retain a fierce pride in their work, fishermen in particular. Economy Historically, the town’s economy has always revolved around fishing. However, in recent years Tarajalejo has also made a concentrated effort to cater to the arrival of tourists which has seen the erection of several hotels and modern seaview apartment blocks.

A haven for watersports enthusiasts, Tarajalejo has plenty to offer. For those who prefer to relax and catch some rays, Tarajalejo Quay is perfect. There are also many other activities in the nearby resort of Morro Jable: quad bike and buggy, red bullet speed boat trip and fishing trip are all possible with the free transfer offered. Aquarium and Centro Hípica Situated on the outskirts of the town, adjacent to the FV-2 motorway, this small but compact saltwater aquarium contains over 120 species of fish. It’s open from 10.00–13.00 and 16.00–20.00. Address: Carretera General Tarajalejo, 35627 TarajalejoTel: +34 928 161 351 If you don’t know your cod from your carp, the Centro Hípica stable next-door offers horse riding lessons and treks costing €20 per hour. The premises also contain a restaurant and bar. Tarajalejo Quay Situated under the jutting headland towards the east of the town, the quay contains a long bench on which you can relax after a day on the waves and marvel at the king-sized crabs that scuttle amidst the rocks below. Watersports Fuerteventura Offering a wide range of activities that include windsurfing, surfing, kayak fishing, snorkelling and catamaran sailing, this accommodating organisation is equipped to fulfil all your nautical needs. A catamaran taster course, particularly popular with tourists, costs €60 for 2 ½ hours tuition.Address: Hotel R2 Bahía PlayaTelephone: +34 928 161 399Email: [email protected] Camping El Brasero If you’re planning on staying for a few nights, this nifty campsite is equipped with two swimming pools and a gym. Costing €8 per head, there are discounts for stays over 15 days.Address: Tarajalejo, 35629 Tuineje  Tel: +34 928 16 10 01

The beach here at Tarajalejo differs from many others on the island, as it features special imported sand. Playa de Tarajalejo Approximately 1km long, the municipal authorities have long been toying with the idea of adding a stratum of imported golden sand to veil the black and pebbled expanse. Perhaps not the island’s finest beach, it still attracts colonies of surfers and beach bums throughout the year. It is adjoined by a pleasant paved promenade lined with palm trees.

Restaurants If looking for an authentic culinary experience, there are several restaurants in the old town which predominantly serve specialities such as vieja, mackerel and queso majorero, a local cheese. With the burgeoning development of tourism in the local area, there are also a few restaurants serving international fare. Bar-Restaurant La Barraca With the sound of the ocean within earshot, this quaint restaurant offers a wide selection of meat and fish dishes, all at reasonable prices. Address: 14 Calle de Isidro Díaz Telephone: +34 928 16 10 89 Opening hours: 12.00pm-10.00pm, Monday to Saturday. Closed on Sundays. Nightlife There are a few bars located around the town square, which often stay open until the early hours, but otherwise it is a rather sparse affair rather sparse affair. If looking for something livelier, you could take a taxi to Pájara , Antigua or Betancuria which have a larger selection of bars and clubs for partygoers. Festivals There are two main fiestas held in Tarajalejo. Fiesta de San Miguel Also celebrated in Gran Tarajal , this fiesta, which takes place in October, commemorates the defeat of the English forces during the battle of Tamasite in 1740. A raucous affair, it includes a passionate re-enactment of the battle in addition to live music and dancing. Sacred Heart Fiesta The town’s indigenous fiesta takes place on May 8 th . Celebrations take place in the town square. Shopping In addition to the local craft shops, open-air markets are often held in the old part of town. The town also hosts a small number of trade fairs throughout the year including the Feria Insular de Artesanía, held in September, which displays local artwork for sale.