Top Rated Attractions in Puerto del Rosario

The right side of this gully is considered by geologists to be among the oldest place in the entire Canary Islands. The rocks here are made from rare marine sediments found in few other places in the world. They date back to the era when dinosaurs roamed the earth and the continents of America and Asia were in the process of separating. The area covers about 31.9 hectares (79 acres) and rises to 67.9 meters (223 feet). This is a protected area and visitors are advised to read the guide on Fuerteventura's protected natural sites before coming.

This is the last inhabited lighthouse on the island that was built according to the classical designs. The engineer responsible was Carlos Alcón and the project was completed in 1953. It is a single building that has a "U" shaped base and rises upwards like three great steps. It was built of stone and reinforced concrete and has been whitewashed. The brown-colored arcade that surrounds the central patio is distinctive and makes it different from the other lighthouses on the island. A dirt road 5.8 kilometers (3 miles) long that is only suitable for four-wheel-drive vehicles connects the lighthouse to the road for Gran Tarajal.

Located close to the coastal village of El Cotillo, Playa De La Concha is considered as one of the best beaches in Fuerteventura. This beach is known for its pristine clear water and white sand. Visitors like to scuba dive in the waters and explore the reef and the marine life around it.

This fortified mansion was built by the Cabrera Bethencourt family in the 17th Century to protect themselves and show off their power, status and wealth. The family belonged to the military aristocracy that governed the island at that time. The sandstone façade bears their coat of arms. The family's living quarters were in the upper story while the stables, carriage houses and food stores were below. Behind the main entrance, there is a spacious interior courtyard. The family's domestic staff lived in smaller dwellings nearby.

Construction on the temple - in Norman Gothic style - began in the early 15th Century, but during a pirate attack by Xaban Arráez part of the building was destroyed. Work began again in the 17th Century and lasted until the mid-20th Century. In the building, you can see traces of Gothic, Baroque and Mudéjar styles. There are three naves with Mudéjar-style ceilings, windows with arches and a tower. The main stone façade features intricately carved stonework with arches decorated in foliage motifs. The altarpiece dating from the mid-17th Century and the beautiful woodwork displayed in the ceiling and the choir stalls are outstanding. There are some ancient tombs laid on the floor of this church as well.

This area has been designated a protected site because of its rich diversity in plant life and the outstanding beauty of the landscape. The highest point of the park is the volcanic cone of the aptly named Montaña Roja, or Red Mountain. Plant, bird and animal life in this region is unique and includes species in danger of extinction. Visitors are advised to read information about protected natural sites of Fuerteventura before coming to the area. Information can be obtained at the Consejería de Política Territorial y Medio Ambiente in Puerto del Rosario.