Fuerteventura is the second largest of the Canaries although one of the least developed. You arrive at the airport in Puerto Rosario, and head to Sotavento in the South (about 1.5 hours).

The Canary Islands offer excellent value for money and are easily reached, by several charter flights a week, with a short 3 hour flight.

Fuerteventura offers a variety of conditioned depending on the time of year and location; from super flat shallow lagoons to full on wave sailing spots. We know this area extremely well so please call for a personal account and advice on suitability.

SOTAVENTO: Located on miles of stunning white sand beaches in the south of the island, as in the north Sotavento is a relatively undeveloped area of the Canaries. For windsurfers this is viewed as one of the windiest places in the world, with the Windsurf World Cup held here for the past 18 years. In this secluded spot the 4* Sol Gorriones hotel holds prime position overlooking the whole area.

WINDSURFING SAFARIS: There are many other more secluded spots all around the island (including some awesome wave sailing) that are best accessed on a safari. You can join groups of up to 6 windsurfers of similar standard, and be taken by 4x4 to a new spot each day. For the more adventurous this is an excellent way to get the very best from the island.

The windiest time in Fuerte is in the summer when a big high pressure sits over the Atlantic and a low over the Sahara. In Sotavento a double acceleration is caused by the trade winds being funneled through the mountains to create significantly stronger winds than the north.

The swells which bring the best waves are caused by depressions in the Atlantic which are more prevalent in Winter.

THE WINDSURFING

Fuerteventura offers windsurfers the opportunity to sail in a whole variety of conditions. The summer gives the best winds, the winter the best waves.

Strong winds and water conditions from flat up to 2 metre waves make Sotavento a perfect spot for freestylers, racers and kiters. The predominant wind direction is a deflected North/East offshore wind. In the autumn, winter and spring the wind can also blow onshore from the East/South. Located on the beautiful white sand beach with crystal-clear turquoise water for miles the two Rene Egli centers offer dream conditions for all levels from beginner to advanced

Fuerteventura does offer a wide range for the non - windsurfer, don't forget this is a major holiday destination for many holiday makers. The key activities are surfing, diving, horse riding, trekking and cycling.

At Sotavento there is a good quality hotel overlooking the spot so this may be more suited to a non - windsurfing partner who is happy to relax around a pool and wander down to the spot at leisure.

THE KITESURFING

Courses and kit hire are available at Sotavento. Sotavento has a waist deep lagoon depending on the tide which offers absolutely perfect conditions for learning and improving

Sotavento evenings are mostly hotel based, relaxing over dinner or in one of the hotel bars. A short shuttle bus ride or taxi ride away are the resorts of Costa Calma and Jandia, which offer a low key selection of bars and nightlife. Fuerte Action café and Restaurant Bar in Costa Calma is a popular meeting place from breakfast until late at night.

UK / EU passport holders: A full 10 year passport valid until at least 6 months after date of return. No visa required. Other passport holders: Please check with Spanish Consulate (020 7589 8989).

HEALTH ADVICE

There are no compulsory inoculations if travelling from the UK but we recommend to check with your GP for the latest advice.