A Spontaneous Escape: Making Summer Memories in Fuerteventura

After a few months of juggling work demands and what felt like a constant stream of sad news, I felt the weight building — physically, mentally, emotionally. As someone who thrives on spontaneity and holds freedom as a core personal value (I’ve written more on that in this post), I knew something had to give.

With the summer holidays stretching ahead and my boys home full-time during that time, the familiar tug of parent guilt crept in — that daily balancing act between work and family. It became clear: we needed a break. A proper one.

Their only requests? Somewhere sunny, hot, and with a pool. Simple enough. My mind immediately jumped to the Canaries — reliable sun, beautiful beaches, and the perfect blend of rest and adventure. Fuerteventura ticked all the boxes.

Why Fuerteventura?

I’ve visited before — usually with friends or my partner — for surf trips, fishing, or just soaking up the island's natural charm. I know it well, which made it a comfortable choice this time around, especially since I’d be travelling solo with the boys (my partner couldn’t join due to work and dog-sitting duties).

I booked us into a villa apartment at Pierre & Vacances Resort – Origo Mare, tucked up near La Oliva in the north. With its on-site waterpark and multiple pools, it was ideal for the kids. Plus, it wasn’t too far from the coast, and of course, I hired a car — a must for exploring the island properly.

Adventure Over Sunbeds

I’ll admit, I’m not a "lie by the pool all day" kind of person. Neither are the boys. We’re happiest when we’re doing, exploring, and discovering. So we packed as much into our five-day escape as we could.

The Canarian breeze was ever-present (as expected), but the sun was glorious, and we made the most of it. We traversed the entire island — from our base in the north all the way down to the south coast at Morro Jable and Jandía, where we swam, snorkelled, and even had an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

One of the absolute highlights? Swimming alongside a juvenile blacktip reef shark, rays, and a kaleidoscope of fish. The boys were in awe — and honestly, so was I. It's the kind of memory you don’t forget.

Making the Most of Every Moment

We also squeezed in a submersible boat trip at Caleta de Fuste — well worth it, even if the pedalos were off-limits due to a broken rescue jet ski. We wandered through the old town and harbour at Corralejo, feasted on seafood paella and seabass, and of course, did a bit of evening shopping. (The boys introduced me to a shop called Ale-Hop — which, if you’ve been, you’ll know is dangerously fun.)

Our villa was spot on — private enough for peace, but close enough to all the amenities. We cooked at home most nights, used the sports facilities, and appreciated the relaxed, family-friendly vibe of the whole resort. I’d definitely recommend it — whether you’re travelling with kids or not.

Just Us

This trip wasn’t just about sunshine and sightseeing. It was about connection. Recharging. Making memories before the boys grow too old to want to go on holiday with their mum (though I hope that’s a while off yet).

We laughed, adventured, got salty and sun-kissed — and came home with lighter hearts and full photo reels.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or weighed down, and if travel is something that helps reset your soul, don’t wait for the perfect time. Sometimes a spontaneous escape is exactly what’s needed.

Here’s to more freedom, more connection, and more saying yes to what fills us up. 🌞🌊