A family’s quest for winter sun led them to the sun-kissed shores of Fuerteventura, a Canary Island offering a respite from the dreary British winter. Driven by the need for Vitamin D and a change of scenery, the author, her mother, and five-year-old son embarked on a four-hour flight to escape the cold. Their expectations of needing warm clothing were quickly dispelled upon arrival, as the island welcomed them with consistent temperatures between 23°C and 25°C. While their last-minute booking limited their resort choices, they stumbled upon the Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas, a Tui offering that proved to be a delightful surprise.
The Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas, a four-star establishment built in 1974, offered a classic charm, compensating for any lack of modern amenities with its prime location and exceptional service. Nestled amongst the Corralejo sand dunes of Grandes Playas, the hotel boasted breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Despite being fully booked, the hotel never felt overcrowded, offering a tranquil atmosphere. While welcoming to children, the resort wasn’t explicitly family-focused, attracting a more mature clientele, which resulted in a peaceful and relaxing environment. This allowed for a unique holiday experience where children entertained themselves, forging friendships with other youngsters and enjoying the simple pleasures of poolside play and mocktails.
The entertainment, while not specifically geared towards children, was enjoyed by all. The author’s son and his newfound friend found particular amusement in mimicking the saxophonist, a testament to the engaging and inclusive nature of the hotel’s entertainment. Beyond the confines of the resort, the family explored the island with the help of Samuel, their Tui representative. A native Fuerteventuran, Samuel took their desire for authentic experiences to heart, leading them to local celebrations and hidden gems. Their adventures included a vibrant Carnival celebration in Puerto Del Rosario, complete with a pirate show, funfair, and a street parade, followed by a delicious meal at La Jaira Gastrobar, where they sampled modern Canarian tapas.
The exploration continued with a visit to Corralejo, a bustling town known for its bi-weekly crafts market, lively bars, and restaurants. The family enjoyed browsing the market, purchasing unique gifts and savoring a meal at Gregorio El Pescador restaurant, indulging in paella, fish skewers, and Canarian potatoes. The following day, they embarked on a glass-bottomed boat tour, reliving a classic holiday experience and visiting Lobos Island, a protected islet with a vast nature reserve and shallow, warm bays. A stop at the unique Popcorn Beach, also known as Playa del Bajo de la Burra, with its algae fossil “sand” that resembles popcorn, added a touch of wonder to their island exploration.
Back at the hotel, the family enjoyed the highly praised hospitality and cuisine. The diverse canapes, expansive hot food and salad bars, and delectable pudding selection provided a culinary journey. The quality of the house wine also impressed, making late afternoon cava on the balcony a cherished ritual. While the rooms were slightly dated, they were impeccably clean, boasting stunning views of the ocean, beach, and dunes. The wooden furniture and heavy drapes lent a sense of comfort and nostalgia, contributing to the overall timeless ambiance of the hotel.
The Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas offered a step back in time, a slower pace reminiscent of childhood holidays. The experience, complete with sunshine, cultural immersion, and relaxed exploration, provided the perfect antidote to the long, hard winter. Samuel, the Tui rep, further enhanced their experience, providing invaluable insights and guiding them to the island’s hidden treasures, including Majanicho, a surfer’s paradise; El Cotillo, with its beautiful beaches and lagoons; Lajares, known for its artisan shops; Tindaya, a sacred mountain; Los Molinos, home to the island’s ducks; Betancuria, a historical village; Ajuy, a former pirate hideout; Tiscamanita, famous for goat cheese and windmills; Gran Tarajal, with its black sand beach; Las Playitas, a charming fishing village; and Punta de la Entallada, the closest point to mainland Africa.
