The Route of the Mills in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

When I think of Fuerteventura, I feel the wind. I imagine the hills, and I see the windmills that sit on top of them.

The force of the trade winds that course through the archipelago shaped the islands and its people in so many ways. By the 18^th century windmills would be the dominating technology, reducing the need for humans to grind grains like precious gofio with a mortar and pestle. The Route of the Mills or Ruta de los Molinos has become a symbolic image of the island. Driving through the countryside, walking by the beach, even right in town – you will see windmills wherever you go.

In the Canary Islands, windmills are differentiated by gender. Molinas are female, which are more square and have one story – while Molinos are male, more rounded with two stories.

+There are two windmills located right in the tourist hub of Corralejo, perfect for those who do not have a car. Molina de Juan Morera is located right across the street from a supermarket!

Just a block away in a lovely square, Molino Del Dulcero is one of the oldest mills still standing on the island.

+Molinos de Villaverde reside nestled between the idyllic hills of La Oliva. There are two windmills within a close walking distance.

+Molinos Interpretation Center speaks to the importance of gofio, which saved Fuerteventurans during famine.

+Molino de Antigua shares a space with a cactus garden and cheese museum, the trio can make a fun afternoon – paid admission.