Overflowing with flowers and framed by humpbacked hills, Betancuria is a beauty. Hear tales of heroes, pirates and plunder as you follow a guided walking tour of the town, exclusively for your party. You'll delve into island history, see the most photogenic corners and taste local cheese and rum, too. Fran, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Betancuria was founded by French explorer Jean de Béthencourt in 1404, after he conquered the island. Just six years later the original church of Santa Maria was built, and even though it was destroyed by pirates and had to be rebuilt, it's still the oldest church on Fuerteventura.'
Peppered with palm trees and nestled under the hills, the island's former capital is a lovely place to wander around and take photos. Your guide will show you the prettiest corners and lead a visit to the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum, which brings the island's history to life. Next, take a short walk into the countryside to explore the deserted ruins of San Buenaventura Convent and the adjacent Hermitage of San Diego – both sacked by pirates in 1593.
Call in at the Church of Santa Maria to see a fine example of colonial architecture and admire its collection of sacred art. Fran says, ‘The altarpiece today was commissioned after the devastating pirate raid in 1593. It is so intricate that it took 34 years to complete.' Finally, we'll round off in a typical Canarian bar to taste an award-winning island cheese and local honey-flavoured rum.
