We think that there is sometimes a tendency for travelers to try to pack as much as they possibly can into every trip. I know we definitely used to do that. But as the years keep going by we have noticed a change in our style of traveling. We have definitely slowed down quite a bit, and that allows us to try to absorb more of the unique qualities of the places we visit.
Our new philosophy is to take more time to discover a destination rather than just check things off of our list. And in keeping with that attitude, we have adjusted our ideas on what we want to look for in a hotel.
Our new thinking is, what if we could travel and still have all of the comforts of home?
Good news, we can! That is what the idea behind this Nohotel in Corralejo is all about. Buendía Corralejo Hotel is a No-Hotel. What? Yes, a No-Hotel. Instead of the usual hotel rooms, it is a collection of apartments with stunning sea views and all with a private terrace or balcony. The units definitely feel more like a fully equipped vacation home than a hotel.
And by fully equipped we mean that all of the flats include a well appointed kitchen with all of the necessities, which fits in great with our slower style because sometimes we prefer to do a little home cooking rather than going out to a restaurant. Of course a coffee maker is at the ready, a must have in our eyes, and an iron and ironing board, along with a hairdryer are also included.
But even with the fantastic accommodations at the Buendía Corralejo Hotel, for us travel is mostly about discovering, experiencing, and learning, which is great because Fuerteventura, and the Canary Islands, have so much to explore. Best of all, so much of it is right near the hotel
Almost everything is nearby. The beach and the sea are just steps away, so surfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and other watersports are right there. And the old town is only a five-minute walk. No need for a taxi or a bus. We like that. There are also bikes available, which has always been one of our favorite ways to check out new places.
We also noticed that many of the rooms have balconies that overlook the beautiful Isla de Lobos, about a mile offshore. Seeing the island across the water makes us really want to go explore it. No problem, Buendía Corralejo can book a Ferry to Isla de Lobos for us whenever we like.
The little, uninhabited island has a long history going all the way back to the Romans, but now it is entirely protected as part of Islote de Lobos Natural Park. We couldn’t help but wonder about the name though.
Did wolves (lobos is Spanish for wolves) somehow make it out to the island? Seemed unlikely, and it was. The name actually comes from sea wolves, also known as monk seals, that used to patrol the waters around the islet. But unfortunately sailors and fishermen hunted them for food and skins and now it is fairly rare to see one around Isla de Lobos.
What is not unusual to see is amazing, unspoiled scenery, crystal clear water, and plenty of interesting hiking trails. A favorite for most visitors is the one to the Martiño Lighthouse. It is an easy, leisurely walk that takes less than an hour and rewards hikers with stunning views of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.
Then, at the end of the day we can relax and enjoy our slower pace again back at the Buendía Corralejo Hotel.
Our home away from home.
David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com
