Cofete, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
Ever since the ‘60s when General Franco flung open the doors to tourism, the Canary Islands have been hailed a haven for sun-seekers in search of year-round rays. But right now as the tried and tested tourist traps swelter with their swarms, we’ve headed to the island outpost of Fuerteventura – one of the most well-known but least-developed of the Canary gang – and this week’s Beach of the Week: The golden sweep of Cofete.
Yes we said Fuerteventura. Yes we said Canary Islands. But push all 18-to-30s images to one side, as this 13-island strong archipelago really is much more than an over-baked fly-and-flop sun spot for end-of-term ravers and Brit-abroad retirees.
So with more than 150 beaches on Fuertventura, what’s so special about Cofete? Well, once you’ve taken a four-wheel drive down the 20km-long dramatic dirt track on the island’s south coast, you’ll be staring out across the answer. Cofete is a stunning, wide open stretch, flanked by the impressive Jandia Mountains with waves crashing on its shore. To put it bluntly it’s a beast of a beach running 5km in length and soaked with wildly rugged charm – the sort of charms that, unlike those of the local waiters, we actually fall for.
Cofete we’re coming for you.
WHEN: the sun shines from March through to November
WHAT TO PACK FOR OUR BEACH OF THE WEEK:
Protect your sun-soaked skin with Institut Esthederm’s tanning face cream, wear your tan well in this season’s Patrasso print bikini by Missoni, teamed with Zoya’s new nail shade Petra. Then turn up the jazz-filled tunes of Eddie Palmieri, Ruben Gonzalez, Gotan Project and, of course, how could we forget the legendary Gypsy Kings…
the bag: Amused by Ameko Wing tassle drawstring tote, £125
the swimwear: Missoni Mare Patrasso bikini, £235
the playlist:
Gotan Project – Chunga’s Revenge
Eddie Palmieri – Vamonos Pa’l Monte
Ruben Gonzalez – Chanchullo
Gypsy Kings – Volare
the products: Institut Esthederm Adaptasun tanning face cream, £28.80 and Zoya Nail Polish in Petra, £9.98
the read: Bitten by Spain by Deborah Fletcher