San Buenaventura Festivities

Betancuria was Fuerteventura's capital for centuries, and it still looks the part: a small inland town of whitewashed houses and a handsome old church, tucked into the hills well away from the beach resorts. For a few July days each year it shakes off its usual quiet for the fiesta of San Buenaventura, the town's patron saint.

There's a religious side, with processions through the narrow streets, but plenty going on besides. Expect open-air concerts after dark, street parties that run late, folklore and craft displays, and games to keep the children busy. It's a local, community affair rather than a polished tourist show, which is rather the point. Entry is free, and the drive up through the mountains is worth the trip on its own.