El Cotillo: a quiet village by the ocean in Fuerteventura

The history of El Cotillo dates back to the 1500s, when the village was known as Puerto del Roque. Later, the fishing village took the name Puerto de El Tostón, which means "port of the crouton", no doubt due to the rugged, rocky landscape of the area. The port of El Cotillo was very important, especially in trade with the nearby island of Lanzarote. It was one of the only ports on Fuerteventura authorised to export cereals, lime and livestock.

When business migrated to Puerto del Rosario, the capital, El Cotillo was deserted. Only a few fishing families remain in their native village. It has to be said that it is a relatively dangerous port, exposed to a strong westerly wind. Many vessels have got into trouble by taking the difficult narrow entrance to the port, between the huge rocky islet and the coast of El Cotillo.

Located in the north-west of the island, El Cotillo is an old fishing village with relatively good exposure to the wind. In fact, it's a popular spot for kitesurfers and windsurfers. A short drive away, the trendy, bohemian village of Lajares attracts surfers from all over the world who come to explore Fuerteventura's coastline. The port is best visited on a sunny afternoon, when time seems to pass more slowly.

El Cotillo's tourist ambitions were unfortunately dampened by Spain's 2008 property crisis. Although buildings were built in the village, most of them are still empty. This somewhat ghost town, especially in the more recent Los Lagos district, nevertheless has plenty of charm. Although not as lively and trendy as some of the island's other seaside resorts, a number of restaurants and hotels flourish quietly in El Cotillo.

The beaches of El Cotillo

El Cotillo is well known for its golden sandy beaches caressed by the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Close to the town, the beaches are beautiful and pleasant, while all the resort's amenities are within easy reach: showers, toilets, restaurants, etc. The beaches of Los Lagos, Cotillo Beach and the sumptuous La Concha are perfect for travellers with children.

Further north, the beaches become wild and isolated. You can reach them by walking along the coast towards the Tostón lighthouse. In these quiet, peaceful spots, you can choose between El Rio beach, a wild beach of dunes and black rocks, or the natural pools of Marrajo, for example.

A bike ride to Corralejo

The two seaside resorts in the north of Fuerteventura can be reached by bike (or on foot). Starting out from El Cotillo, the route begins to the north of the town, behind the Urbanización Los Lagos. 4.5 km further on, the Tostón lighthouse comes into view. From here, you can follow the coast through some beautiful sandy coves, separated by volcanic rocks.

Halfway along, the path passes through the small fishing village of Majanicho, the town with the highest proportion of elderly people on Fuerteventura. Finally, you'll arrive near the Corralejo bus station. Take the whole day off for this walk of around 40 km, and don't forget your water bottles!

Activities for children in El Cotillo

There are plenty of activities for children in El Cotillo. So you can be sure that every member of the family will have a great time at the resort. For unforgettable family moments, you can choose between pony rides, surfing lessons or a visit to the Hornos de Cal viewpoint, the lime kiln or the Castillo de El Tostón, the lighthouse to the south of the town.

🍴 Where to eat in El Cotillo?

La Vaca Azul is a restaurant where simplicity is delicious. Entirely decorated in white and blue, the terrace offers incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean, while the plates are resplendent with wonderfully cooked seafood. The restaurant is open from 12.30pm to 10pm, every day.

📍 How do I get to El Cotillo?

El Cotillo is located in the north-west of Fuerteventura, a 35-minute drive from Puerto del Rosario via the FV-10 road.