Meet the place
Tefía, the rural heart of Fuerteventura: your peaceful refuge
Did you know that Fuerteventura is much more than sun and sand? Of course! Its beaches are like a film, but beyond that, the island holds places where time stands still, silence is heard and the connection with the volcanic earth is profound. Away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist coasts, there is rural Fuerteventura, a hidden treasure in the interior of the island waiting to be discovered. This page is your guide to explore the charm of Tefía and its surroundings, and to discover why our Rural Hotel is the perfect base for a different and unforgettable experience in Fuerteventura.
Tefía
A haven of peace with a Majorero soul
In the heart of Fuerteventura, far from the hustle and bustle of the coastal tourist areas, lies Tefía, a small and authentic rural village. With a population of just 300 inhabitants, Tefía preserves the slow pace and genuine essence of traditional Majorero life. It is a place where time seems to slow down, perfect for those who are looking for a real disconnection and wish to feel the ‘soul’ of the island, in an environment that, although it has evolved, keeps alive its historical roots related to agriculture and livestock farming, as its old chapel of San Agustín and windmill testify.
What to see and do in Tefía
If you are looking to immerse yourself in the authentic Fuerteventura and experience the slow pace of rural life, Tefía offers points of interest that will connect you with the history, culture and soul of the island. Away from the hustle and bustle of the coast, here you will find places that tell stories and invite you to discover the essence of Fuerteventura just a stone’s throw away from our hotel.
Ecomuseo La Alcogida
Delve into Fuerteventura’s rural past by visiting the Ecomuseum La Alcogida in Tefía. This fascinating traditional village has been carefully restored, preserving the original architecture of seven houses from the last century. Walk through its rooms, which still bear the names of the families who lived there, and watch local craftsmen working in ancient trades such as palm and clay. La Alcogida is more than a museum; it is a journey through time that fuses architecture, culture and tradition, offering you an authentic look at the ethnographic values of the island.
Molino de Tefía
The Molino de Tefía mill dominates the unique semi-arid landscape of the interior of Fuerteventura. This mill, declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, is a silent witness to Fuerteventura’s agricultural past. It represents the centuries-old tradition of grinding grain using the power of the wind, essential for the production of gofio, a staple food on the island from the 15th century until well into the 20th century. Its presence in the surroundings, near places such as the Ecomuseum La Alcogida, takes you back to a time when life revolved to the rhythm of the blades and the harvests.
Colonia Agrícola Penitenciaria de Tefía
Tefía is also home to a place of significant historical importance, albeit of a sombre nature: the Colonia Agrícola Penitenciaria de Tefía (Tefía Agricultural Penitentiary Colony). Operational between 1954 and 1966 under the Vagos y Maleantes Law, this facility was a centre of repression and social and political control during Franco’s regime. It housed prisoners considered ‘dangerous’, including people convicted of homosexuality after the amendment of the law in 1954. The testimonies of those who were there reveal the harsh conditions of forced labour, humiliation and deprivation. Visiting this site is an exercise in historical memory and provides an insight into a deeper and more complex layer of the island’s and Spain’s past.
What to see in the centre of Fuerteventura
Betancuria: A Journey into the History of Fuerteventura
A short distance from Tefía is Betancuria, which was the first capital of Fuerteventura and of the entire Canary Archipelago. Founded in the 15th century, this town, nestled in the picturesque valley of the Betancuria Massif, is today a Historic-Artistic Site and a veritable open-air museum.
Stroll through the well-kept old town with its unique Canarian architecture of whitewashed houses and volcanic stone. In the centre of the village, you’ll find historic buildings such as the Church of Santa María, which became the first cathedral in the Canary Islands, and explore the ruins of the Franciscan Convent of San Buenaventura.
Don’t forget to visit the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum to learn about the fascinating history of the ancient inhabitants, the Mahos. From the nearby viewpoints, such as Guise and Ayose or Morro Velosa (designed by César Manrique), you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the Betancuria Rural Park and the interior of the island.
Tindaya Mountain: Mystery and Sights
Leaving Tefía, if you head towards the north of the island, you will see Tindaya Mountain, considered sacred by the Majorero aborigines, standing out alone in the arid landscape. Standing almost 400 metres high, this mountain, sculpted by time, holds podomorphic (foot-shaped) engravings of great archaeological value, witnesses to ancestral rituals and beliefs. The surroundings of Tindaya radiate an atmosphere of mystery and tranquillity, perfect for contemplating the immensity of the Majorero landscape and feeling the energy of this unique place.
Museo del Queso Majorero (Antigua)
Fuerteventura is synonymous with beaches, yes, but also with a rich culture and gastronomy, and the Majorero Cheese Museum, located in the nearby town of Antigua, is the perfect place to discover it. This interactive museum invites you on a journey through the history, tradition and essence of the island through its star product: the internationally renowned Majorero cheese, made from the milk of the local goat. Learn about the volcanic origin of Fuerteventura, the uniqueness of the Majorero goat and the importance of cheese in island life. And of course, don’t leave without taking part in a tasting to savour the unique nuances of this award-winning delicacy.
Puertito de Los Molinos: The Hidden Coast
For a fascinating contrast to the rural hinterland, head to Puertito de Los Molinos, a charming little fishing village on the west coast. Known as a summer retreat for locals, this little port offers a small beach and a laid-back seaside atmosphere. Stroll among its simple houses, enjoy the sound of the Atlantic and, tide permitting, take a refreshing swim. It is an authentic corner where time seems to stand still.
Puerto del Rosario: the capital of Fuerteventura
Despite seeking rural disconnection, the proximity to Puerto del Rosario, the capital of Fuerteventura, formerly known as Puerto Cabras, is an advantage. This small town is the administrative, commercial and cultural centre of the island and offers an interesting counterpoint to the quiet interior. You can stroll along its seafront avenue, explore its shopping area, visit the Unamuno Museum (the house where the writer lived during his exile) or discover the more than 150 sculptures that adorn its streets, turning it into an open-air museum.
The Charm of Other Nearby Villages
The centre and north of Fuerteventura are dotted with small villages with unique charm, perfect for exploring from Tefía. You can visit La Oliva, with its historic Casa de los Coroneles and the distinctive church of La Candelaria, which shows the contrast of whitewashed white against the black of the volcanic stone. Or head to Ajuy, another picturesque fishing village on the west coast, famous for its impressive natural caves, declared a Natural Monument, and its black sand beach. These and other rural villages, such as Tetir, allow you to discover the diversity of the island and the leisurely pace of Majorcan life.
Activities to connect with the nature and culture of Fuerteventura
The rural environment surrounding Tefía is a paradise for those who, as well as looking for peace and quiet, are lovers of adventure and active tourism. From our hotel, you have privileged access to endless possibilities to really connect with the landscape and the Majorcan culture.
Hiking
There is nothing better than having breakfast at our rural hotel, putting on your boots and exploring the austere and magnetic beauty of Fuerteventura’s interior on foot. You won’t find lush forests here! But the island has beautiful hiking trails that wind between small volcanic mountains and stony plains, offering spectacular views and unparalleled peace and quiet. Our location is the perfect starting point to begin these hikes and discover hidden corners of the island.
Mountain Bike
Para los que prefieren dar pedales, el paisaje majorero presenta un terreno fascinante. Tanto si disfrutas de las rutas de carretera como de la emocionante aventura del mountain bike en Fuerteventura, te esperan caminos que te desafiarán. Tefia es, sin duda, un punto de partida ideal para el ciclismo en la isla, una forma estupenda de sentir su esencia rural y descubrir sus rincones más auténticos.
Active Tourism and Exploration
In general, the area is ideal for active tourism in Fuerteventura, allowing you to combine exercise with cultural and natural discovery. Moreover, given the length of the island, exploring the island by car from a central location like Tefía offers you the great advantage of being able to reach most of the points of interest (both north and south) in comfortable day trips, always returning to the calm of your rural retreat.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
Tefia, the heart of Fuerteventura's Starlight Reserve
When night falls over Tefía, the magic of this place is revealed in its maximum splendor. Far from light pollution, the sky of this region unfolds like a unique starry blanket. It is no coincidence that Fuerteventura has been declared a Starlight Reserve, an international recognition that certifies the exceptional quality of its night sky. Here, stargazing awaits you in its purest state, allowing you to see the stars and the island’s night sky like never before.
Why our hotel in Tefía is your gateway to rural Fuerteventura
If the description of the tranquility of Tefía, the authenticity of its interior and the possibilities of adventure and culture have resonated with you, our Hotel Rural Rosario Martin is the place where that vision comes to life. We are not just an accommodation; we are your direct connection to the most genuine essence of Fuerteventura, offering the pleasant and peaceful stay you are looking for to really disconnect.
Our 19th century mansion, carefully restored, preserves the soul of the Fuerteventura of yesteryear. When you walk through our doors, you will feel like you are entering a corner with history, where the traditional Majorcan architecture and each stone tells its own narrative. Here, the past and tranquility intertwine to create a unique refuge, away from the hustle and bustle, perfect for reconnecting with yourself and your surroundings.
The hotel’s location in Tefía is ideal for two reasons: it immerses you in a perfect and very peaceful environment for the disconnection you so desire, and at the same time, it strategically positions you as the ideal base for exploring rural Fuerteventura and beyond. From here, you will experience rural Fuerteventura, with hiking and mountain biking trails waiting for you, and exploring the island by car to visit Betancuria, Tindaya or the coast is convenient and easy.
Rural hotel in Fuerteventura with breakfast and pool
After a day of discoveries or just enjoying the peace and quiet, our pool becomes your private oasis, the perfect place to relax and cool off under the Majorero sun. And to start each day with energy, our delicious breakfast included will prepare you for your adventures or your well-deserved rest.
Choosing our Rural Hotel in Tefía means opting for a rural experience in Fuerteventura that is authentic and unique, different from what you would find elsewhere. It is the opportunity to sleep in Tefía and experience the island from its heart, in an environment that truly reflects the peace and beauty of the interior of Fuerteventura. We invite you to be part of the history that continues to be written within these walls and to create your own unforgettable memories.
Book now your rural getaway in Fuerteventura
You have already discovered the charm of the picturesque village of Tefia and its surroundings. If you dream of disconnecting, exploring unique landscapes, immersing yourself in the local culture and finding a haven of peace, your destination awaits you in the heart of the island. Don’t wait any longer to plan your getaway of disconnection and adventure in the interior of Fuerteventura. Check our availability and secure your place in this unique corner.
