Only 60 miles (100km) separates the island of Fuerteventura, second largest in the Canaries, from the Africa, and this sunny island shares the same latitude (and therefore roughly the same weather conditions) with popular holiday areas such as Florida and Mexico.

However, that is where the similarities end, Fuerteventura is relatively undiscovered, its 150 idyllic sandy beaches a fry cry from the hustle and bustle of Disneyland or Cancun. In true Canaries fashion, the island has a volcanic landscape, and in addition to glorious beaches, tourist attractions that are generally found off the beaten track.

This air of remoteness has kept the mega resorts and mass summer package holiday trade at bay, but Fuerteventura does now benefit from day-trippers from other islands such as Lanzarote (ferries from Playa Blanca) and Gran Canaria who make the short trip in to Correlejo.

The resorts of Fuerteventura

It might have two names - Caleta de Fuste, or often known as Castillo), but this area of the island is very popular with tourists. Located about six miles (10km) south of the island's airport, the resort's horseshoe-shaped gently sloping beach is man-made, and covered with imported golden sand. Many years ago it was known as a very quiet resort, and whilst this is still the case to some extent, it's certainly growing in size and popularity.

On the north coast of Fuerteventura lies the former small fishing town of Corralejo's harbour which is now a major resort in its own right. Aided by the scores of travellers who arrive on the ferry from Playa Blanca for a day trip (services run nearly every hour), tourism is booming and development is keeping pace. However, the place still retains a certain amount of charm and you'll find many restaurants and cafes to relax in along the waterfront promenade.