The island of Fuerteventura, with its golden beaches, volcanic hills, and sweeping desert plains, offers a unique setting for equestrian tourism. This Canary Island, bathed in year-round sunshine, provides riders with a chance to explore its striking terrain on horseback, supported by facilities that cater to both beginners and experienced equestrians.
One of the island’s standout bridle trails is the route through the Jandía Peninsula, accessible from equestrian centres near Costa Calma. This path winds along coastal cliffs and sandy dunes, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and opportunities to canter along pristine beaches. The trail, suitable for riders with some experience, follows paths once used by local shepherds, blending natural beauty with a touch of history. Another gem is the trail around the Malpaís de la Arena, a volcanic landscape near La Oliva. Operators like Centro Ecuestre El Refugio guide riders through lava fields and open plains, where the stark terrain contrasts with the distant turquoise sea.
In the northern part of the island, trails near Corralejo Natural Park offer a mix of desert dunes and coastal paths. Equestrian centres such as Fuerteventura Horse Riding provide guided rides through this protected area, where riders can enjoy gentle trots or brisk gallops along the shore, with views of Lanzarote on clear days. The trails around Betancuria, the island’s historic capital, lead through rugged hills and dry riverbeds, with operators offering routes tailored to different skill levels. For a unique experience, rides through the Tindaya Plain showcase the sacred Tindaya Mountain, with its ancient engravings, accessible from centres like Finca El Valle.
Fuerteventura’s equestrian facilities enhance the riding experience. Centro Ecuestre El Refugio in La Oliva offers lessons and trail rides, with well-trained horses suited to the island’s varied terrain. Its knowledgeable staff provide insights into local ecology, ensuring a safe and engaging ride. Fuerteventura Horse Riding near Corralejo combines modern stables with beachfront treks, catering to families and solo riders alike. Finca El Valle, a rural retreat near Villaverde, provides a rustic setting for riding holidays, with hacks through the northern plains and comfortable lodgings in traditional Canarian houses. Near Pájara, Centro Hípico Jandía offers coastal and inland rides, with a focus on the hardy Spanish horses that thrive in the island’s conditions.
The island’s bridle paths, many following ancient goatherd routes, are well-marked and maintained, ensuring safe exploration. Riders can venture into the Pozo Negro area, where trails skirt volcanic craters and quiet beaches, or explore the inland routes around Antigua, passing windmills and aloe vera fields. Accommodation options like Casa Rural La Gayría near Tiscamanita offer a cosy base near trailheads, serving Canarian cuisine to refuel after a day’s ride.
Fuerteventura’s warm, sunny climate makes it an ideal destination for year-round riding, with consistent temperatures perfect for beach gallops or desert treks. The island’s equestrian heritage, tied to resilient Canarian horses, adds a cultural layer, with many centres offering insights into traditional horsemanship.
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