Those who dare to tackle the unpaved mountain road that leads to Cofete Beach will be rewarded with golden sand that stretches forever, mesmerizing wild waves, and a backdrop of the highest point on Fuerteventura.
Cofete is cut off from the rest of the island by the rough mountain range in Jandia Natural Reserve, it is referred to as the loneliest place in Spain. The lack of pavement and civilization breathes ideas of adventure, beckoning those looking to truly get away from it all.
How to get to Cofete Beach? There are two ways:
+Drive yourself. The road is over nine miles of dirt track, bumpy and intensely curvaceous, culminating at the top of a mountain – then narrowly snaking down it. So narrow at times, I saw a car have to reverse to a wider pocket so that two vehicles wouldn’t collide…all along a steep precipice. There are no guardrails, I would say this drive requires some nerves of steel, but when you make it to the pinnacle it is all worth it.
A magnificent view – and pure freedom down below. 4WD would be helpful, but not necessary. We asked the lady at the car rental location Cabrera Medina if insurance covers the drive. She said it does not, but upgraded us for free to a high clearance vehicle which she was confident would be fine. No matter what car you have, drive with caution.
+Take the mountain bus if you aren’t up for the drive. It runs twice a day between Morro Jable town and Cofete Beach. The last ride back is at 4:30 PM – don’t miss it because there are no hotel rooms to seek refuge in this remote area. Currently, the bus fare is 8.70 euro each for each way.
Parking and amenities
Parking is ample and free, the lot is right beside the sand next to a small cemetery. There are no life guards or restrooms at the beach. There is a small restaurant on the hillside, which isn’t too far of a walk.
How to enjoy Cofete Beach?
+Just relax. It’s been a long drive, you’re on vacation, and the 7½ miles of sandy coast means that you can surely find peace and quiet. Note that the water at this beach can be very dangerous with strong currents. It is not advisable to swim here.
+Take a walk. With Pico de la Zarza looming overhead, the scenery is fantastic. One great destination is the peninsula islet 5 miles north, another is Roque del Moro 1½ south – a giant boulder vertically jutting out of the sea.
+Explore Villa Winter. Built in 1937 by German engineer Gustav Winter, rife with conspiracy. Some say that it was used as a military output for German U-Boats during WWII, but this theory has never been proven.