I’m on holiday, on my own, a lady recently widowed after many years of marriage. I had to come away as the memories at home were too painful. The strength I had to find was unbelievable, so to go away on my own in comparison is a breeze.
Having completed my journey, I find myself nestled within the plush confines of the Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas in Fuerteventura. This followed a smooth four-hour flight on Easy Jet from Gatwick and a 25-minute taxi ride to the hotel.
Situated in the appealing Corralejo area of Fuerteventura, this hotel boasts an enviable location on the Canary Islands, a beautiful Spanish archipelago marooned in the vast Atlantic Ocean. I booked the hotel easily through www.booking.com
It’s a beautiful old lady of a hotel, quite glamorous - marble, glass, and sumptuous couches to sink into. The receptionist handed me a glass of chilled cava, sat me down and said she’d bring me my key shortly. As the drink hits the spot, I thought, this can’t be bad. I can put up with this for a week and smiled sweetly at her, hoping she’d bring me another glass.
There’s quite a queue building up at the desk, many couples of different ages. I listen intently for an English voice. Generally, I would say everyone is German.
The Porter carried my bag to my room and handed me an old-fashioned brass key. No electronics here. The room is a double, with a comfortable bed. Best of all is the breathtaking view overlooking the sea and pool. Hanging in the wardrobe is the softest of bath robes and slippers. There’s a fridge for the minibar. Private bathroom with toiletries. A Folder of information, including the code for the free wifi.
As evening falls, I find myself in the hotel, where a talented three-piece band and a singer are providing the musical backdrop. They are very good, and I'm tempted to get up and dance, maybe not.
Moving on to dinner, being a lady on her own can present its challenges if you let it. I step into the hotel restaurant and quietly search for a cosy corner or a window seat. The waiter approaches with a warm smile and asks, "Algo beber? Something to drink?" I reply, "Yes, please, a glass of vino blanco." He glances at the empty seat across from me and inquires, "Solo?" I nod in agreement as he promptly removes the extra set of cutlery and glasses from the table. It's a moment of reflection, but it is, what it is.
The buffet-style food on offer is excellent, and gradually, I have become more accustomed to dining alone. When you find yourself in such moments, having your phone or a good book can be comforting companions.
Bedtime comes closer, I leave all the cosied-up couples and return to my beautiful room. It's so old-fashioned, full of charm. I asked for a quiet room, but It’s next to the lift, which rumbles and clonks. I decided to have a word about that the next day.
The weather is fantastic, with blue skies and a slight breeze. The beach is easily equal to any in the Caribbean and backs onto the sand dunes. To walk along the beach is food for the soul, with every splash of a turquoise wave sending healing and love. The average temperature in February this week is about 23 degrees.
Gradually the tension is leaving me. I love it here; I’m already planning my next trip.
One little word of warning. Don’t peer into the large stone beach circles. I made the mistake of thinking it was for nesting turtles. No! These are courtesy zones for nudists. No turtles.
In the afternoon, I jumped on the bus into Corralejo town. It cost one euro fifty. There are many British people on the bus, so there must be another hotel close. I noticed a few people had TUI bags. As we travel along, the back of the town is a bit sad, with half-built apartments and scruffy roads. Leftovers from the pandemic.
Once off the bus, everything brightens considerably, and I walk down the main high street. Lots of shops, plenty of buzzing restaurants. I bought a pair of shorts, those big pegs to hold your towel in place when it gets windy, and an Indian beach blanket, with an elephant design.
I was drawn to one particular coffee shop and ordered a café con leche. I love Spanish coffee, in my opinion, the best in the world. I realised this was the coffee shop my husband and I had visited many years ago. I walked on further and came to the seafront. There was a saxophone player on the beach. Gorgeous guy with sun-highlighted dreadlocks. He had a way of really coaxing the most from the sax, soft and mellow, just like Corralejo.
There was a man fishing today. My husband, a keen fisherman, would walk up to someone on the pier and say, “How you doing? Any luck?” A conversation would follow about types of bait, hooks, and what types of fish were in these crystal clear waters - the language of fishermen. So today, I walked up to a fisherman, “How are you doing? Any luck?” With that, he chatted away, told me he’d been using floating crust, and had a couple of bites. I said good luck and turned, remembering the moment.
On my way back down the High Street, I stumbled upon a nail and tattoo bar. I decided to get my nails done in anticipation of something special next week, but I'll save that story for later. The girls at the bar were incredibly friendly and even playfully tried to convince me to get a snake tattoo on my thigh. Our conversation was a mix of my limited Spanish and their basic English, but we managed to have a reasonable chat.
As I left, I made the promise to consider the tattoo and perhaps return tomorrow. However, the truth is, it's definitely not going to happen. It was all in good fun, but I don’t like pain or snakes.
I’m not so self-assured, help me if you can. I'm feeling down!
I decided to head back to the hotel by taking a taxi. The driver happened to be Moroccan and, to my surprise, he started singing Beatles songs as soon as I got in. It was quite an experience, and I couldn't help but smile. He had a great singing voice, and I appreciated the unexpected serenade. However, when he got to "Yellow Submarine," he really got carried away with it! It was a fun and quirky ride, adding a touch of musical magic to my day.
I went to my room and changed into my swimsuit. I grabbed my new Indian beach blanket. I walked to the left of the hotel for a change, past the spa, past the jacuzzi, and onto the most glorious, quiet beach. Secured my new Indian beach blanket, and I fell asleep to the sound of the waves.
I can't recommend this island and hotel enough, especially if you're single, recently widowed, or a solo traveller. Escaping the winter chill from wherever you come from to embrace the warmth and beauty of this place is truly fulfilling. With each passing day, I'm starting to feel a little more blessed and at peace with the world.
Later that evening, I enquired if there was another room to move me to, as I could hear the lift. They apologised, said not at the moment, and would check again tomorrow. The male receptionist took me to the bar and spoke to the barman. Asked me what I'd like to drink. I swear he poured me half a pint of Fundador brandy. I did not hear the lift that night or any other night.
I think I must be the only person here without a partner. I’m not saying I’m sad, well, yes, of course I am, but also I'm envious of them. It’s just an observation, even an experiment. Would I come again? Yes! Without a doubt.
I feel one hundred percent safe here. Cocooned in a mellow golden warmth, so chilled. It’s undeniably wonderful. It must be the brandy.
One day to go, then I fly to Tenerife on my own to pick up a cruise - the P&O Ventura. Cruising to Madeira and the Canary Islands. You can read about it here.
My adventures are about to start, a new chapter in my life, Widow on the Waves.
Below, you'll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about travelling solo to Fuerteventura, specifically staying at the Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas. I hope they provide helpful insights to help you plan your trip. If you have additional questions, please feel free to get in touch.
The best way to get from the UK to Fuerteventura is to fly. The price range for flight tickets varies depending on the time of year. I did a search for next year and came up with a price of £94 return from Gatwick. The journey duration typically falls within 4 to 6 hours, depending on the specific departure and arrival airports, as well as the airline.
The Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas in Fuerteventura is a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern luxury. With its prime location in the beautiful Corralejo area, it offers a splendid retreat for travellers. It’s away from the main tourist area, but very easy to access the main town and nightlife if you wish.
Each room at the Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas is equipped with comforts designed to make your stay relaxing. Amenities include a double bed, a fridge with mini bar, air conditioning, TV, free WIFI, a private bathroom with toiletries, and the cosiest bathrobes and slippers to lounge in.
Dining solo at the hotel restaurant is a comfortable experience. The staff ensures a welcoming environment for all, offering excellent buffet-style food and a serene dining atmosphere.
Plenty of activities await visitors around the Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas. The beautiful beaches and sand dunes are perfect for leisurely walks, but with the spa at the hotel, two pools, and children’s pool, three restaurants, three bars, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk and currency exchange, maybe you don't want to leave. However, there are other places to explore, just ask at the front desk, and they will advise on places and tours of the rest of the island. I've added this link for the 10 best.
The nearby beach and sand dunes of Parque Natural de Corralejo make for ideal spots for relaxing strolls. To the left of the hotel is more beach, if you follow this, you can walk into the town, a fast walker would take one hour. The scenic beauty of these locations is truly rejuvenating, providing a great way to unwind close to the hotel.
Corralejo town, just a short bus or taxi ride away, presents numerous shopping opportunities. From local crafts to fashionable clothing, shoppers can find a variety of items to suit their tastes. There is a market every Tuesday and Friday at Acua Water Park.
In Corralejo town, several coffee shops serve delightful Spanish coffee that's a must-try. There are also a number of restaurants buzzing with activity, providing a taste of the local cuisine. If you want something in the evening a little livelier, try Rock Cafe, which has food and entertainment.
Navigating Fuerteventura is relatively simple, thanks to its reliable public transport. Buses are the primary means, and they are both efficient and affordable, facilitating easy travel around the island.
Fuerteventura, as a destination, ensures a safe and welcoming experience for solo female travellers. The warm and friendly locals and the secure environment make for a peaceful trip.
February in Fuerteventura brings enjoyable weather, ideal for outdoor activities, and an average temperature of around 23 degrees Celsius, it's a lovely time to visit. Fuerteventura is known to be windy, I never experienced it myself, just a gentle breeze.
When packing for a winter trip to Fuerteventura, consider including lightweight clothing for the daytime, beach essentials, and a warm layer for cooler evenings.
Read my next blog post "Solo Cruising on the P&O Azura".
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