9 Enchanting Experiences in Fuerteventura's Oldest Town Betancuria

The former capital town of Fuerteventura is located in the mid-west of the island. Norman conqueror Jean de Béthencourt founded the town in 1404. The aim was to build a city that could easily defend itself against pirate attacks. As you enter the city and start to stroll the streets you will soon realise its religious past and present. 

The town is accessible by car, bike, or bus number 2 which starts the journey in Puerto del Rosario and ends in Vega de Río Palmas. The one-way ticket costs around 3.30 EUR.

Visit Iglesia de Santa María church

The town’s most impressive dominant lies in the heart of Betancuria. Built in French Gothic style. Entry ticket of 1.50 EUR will get you inside this small place filled with paintings, statues of saints, Ntra. Mrs. de los Dolores, Christ Preacher, Virgin of the Rosary, or the Nazarene. The primary baroque altar features intricate woodwork with botanical motifs. Flanking it on both sides are altars dedicated to Saint Bonaventure and Christ.

Stroll the streets

Wonder through the cobblestone streets around the main Plaza Santa María de Betancuria. You will find a square with a fountain accompanied by many souvenir shops. Betancuria nestles amidst the orange-red desert landscape, adorned with white houses accented by stone. Many vibrant flower and cactus gardens add bursts of color to the scenery.

Ruins of Convento de San Buenaventura

A short 8-minute long walk towards the north will get you to the ruins of this old monastery. There are two ways – one with a more official entrance near the area for caravans and the second one (which was my case) from the street C. Pdte. Hormiga. The latter one comes with a slightly steep hill you have to walk down.

The building was the first convent on the island and it belonged to the Franciscan Order (more information about the convent here).

The Hermitage of San Diego

Within short walking distance, you will find a bigger building in overall good condition. I do not know if it is possible to get inside, but I was not able to find any way in. According to historical sources, San Diago de Alcalá was one of the guardians of the convent. He was a Franciscan missionary whose main purpose was to convert local or native people into evangelic religion. The lush garden, adorned with an array of vibrant plants, flowers, and a gracefully flowing fountain, exudes a nostalgic charm reminiscent of bygone days filled with joy and tranquility.

Casa Santa Maria Museum

The museum is open daily except Sunday from 10 am until 2 pm. The entrance is free of charge. Inside you can adore a collection of archeological findings (mostly ancient farming gadgets) and discover more about the Canarian past. It sits near the city’s old town hall. Nowadays, it also houses a restaurant with 3D and Multiview projections.

The Archaeological Museum of Fuerteventura

You will find the museum on the main road LV-30. The entry is free and the visits are allowed from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. There are three floors – the first one is dedicated to native inhabitants of the island, the second one to the Christian colonial era, and the last one to photography of reconstructed faces of the skulls.

Shop Aloe Vera products

Nearby the archeological museum when you head down to the south you will find La Aloe Vera Fresca di Fuerteventura cosmetics store. Aloe Vera is one of the most popular plants and its healing and health properties and benefits are known all around the world. Its origins are in Canaries, Cape Verde, Madeira, and North America. The shop is open daily from 10 am until 6 pm. They also have a website in case you prefer to shop online or would be interested in buying later after your departure. The staff is very friendly and informed and you can test various products too.

Betancuria nearby hiking trails

Mirador de Guise y Ayose 

If you do not mind a little bit of walking you can try the 35-minute-long trail from Betancuria center to the Mirador de Guise y Ayose. You will need to head north and follow the same road that goes to the old monastery with ruins. The top of Mirador will get you some nice and scenic views of the Fuerteventura inland landscapes. The place is also great for stargazing and night photography.

Mirador de morro velosa

This location sits along the same path as the previous hiking trail, with the only difference being an earlier right turn onto Cam. Velosa Street. At the hill’s peak stands an old building housing a restaurant, albeit currently closed. As expected, the island’s characteristic strong wild winds prevail here as well.