In a place between Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, an island rises promising the oasis that we came to look for in the Canary Islands: volcanic lands, azure waters and a unique display of fauna and flora that make up the recommended Island of Lobos, also known as Islote de Lobos.
Introduction to Isla de Lobos
They say that, from time immemorial, sea lions were linked to a certain island located northeast of Fuerteventura and southwest of Lanzarote, in the Canary Islands. So much the Romans who came to the prized Isla de Lobos in search of purple ink extracted from mollusks, such as the French that at the beginning of the XV century, they came to stock up on these noble animals on some occasion. . .
To these early episodes, it is necessary to add the arrival of various pirates who took refuge on this islet taking advantage of the underdeveloped population, an aspect that would change at the end of the 1860th century. Specifically, in XNUMX in which the construction of the Punta Martiño lighthouse he would establish a small town on its slopes. The same that would make its way on this island of Atlantic winds and epic waves that, when they retreat, reveal lagoons and beaches of a blue sky contained in barely 4,5 square kilometers of extension.
A lost land that perfectly reflects the survival of the first residents who, during the first half of the XNUMXth century, made their way through fishing or the construction of corralitos (circle structures made of stones) in order to collect rainwater. through which to subsist.
Declared Corralejo Natural Park, town of Formentera and the closest town to the islet, this place has become not only a member of the Natura 2000, but has also been declared Special bird protection area (ZEPA), consolidating its high biological value.
Would you like to travel back in time and get lost in the dreamlike Isla de Lobos?
What to see on Isla de Lobos
Belonging to the municipality of La Oliva, in Fuerteventura, Isla de Lobos is the perfect destination as a one-day extension to our vacations in the aforementioned Fuerteventura or nearby LanzaroteBoth arid paradises of sleeping volcanoes, practicing water sports and fairytale beaches.
Accessible from different points, especially the town of Corralejo, Isla de Lobos revolves around La Caldera, the highest peak in the territory with 127 meters high. The perfect excuse to opt for a well-calculated hiking day (we will tell you why later) from your disembarkation in the port and in a circular direction.
Arid and exotic, the Isla de Lobos relies especially on the presence of different beaches that make up a paradise on Earth. Turquoise blue waters embracing the volcanic lands and collecting the sigh of some sea lions, also known as monk seals, whose population decreased considerably many years ago, leaving only their memory among the waters.
Among some of the Isla de Lobos beaches that you can enjoy, these are the best:
- La Concha beach: In the shape of a half moon and also known as La Caleta, this beach is located in the west area and offers impressive views of the coast of Fuerteventura. Dotted by volcanic cliffs that highlight even more the blue (even with emerald tones) of its waters, Playa de la Concha is a paradise that is somewhat more isolated from other more touristy beaches on the island.
- The Little Port: The most famous (and therefore frequented) beach on Isla de Lobos includes an almost virgin beach crossed by a wooden walkway that invites you to jump in search of old mermaids. Blue and heavenly, this beach is also ideal for practicing water sports such as snorkeling.
- The Calera: If when you arrive at the port you decide to take the path to the left, you will come across La Calera, an idyllic beach that is the best threshold when approaching the mythical Martiño Lighthouse, 40 minutes away on foot.
- The Lagoons: If you continue towards the lighthouse from La Calera, you will find this area of natural pools where you can see numerous seabirds that come in search of this unique oasis.
How to get to Isla de Lobos
One of the best options when leaving for Isla de Lobos is usually to take a free ferry from Corralejo, in Fuerteventura. Another more complete option is to pay a catamaran excursion, which usually includes food and snorkeling equipment on board.
However, you should keep in mind that since January 2019, Isla de Lobo has applied certain limitations when it comes to better controlling the capacity of this destination.
In this way, now it is only possible book an excursion 3 days in advance and for a maximum of 3 people. At the same time, the stay on the island is limited to 4 hours (To give an example, taking an excursion to the peak of La Caldera takes just over 3 hours, so you should plan your visit and priorities well).
Access hours to Isla de Lobos are divided into morning (From 10:00 a.m. to 14:00 p.m.) and afternoon (From 14:00 p.m. to 18:00 p.m.), being equally respected by all the boats that depart daily from Fuerteventura or, rarely, Lanzarote.
If you decide to visit Isla de Lobos after paying for a ferry, the price is around 15 euros for adults and 8 for children while the journey takes only 20 minutes.
If you are thinking of discovering a unique paradise as a complement to your holidays in the Canary Islands, Isla de Lobos assures you a corner of almost Martian peace and tranquility. Breathe in fresh air, swim in barely conquered lagoons and finish with a beer next to the port before continuing to explore some Canary Islands that are the best synonym of beauty, magic and a blue that floods everything.
Would you like to visit Isla de Lobos during your trip to the Canary Islands?