The Impact of “Exodus” on El Cotillo: A Hidden Gem in Fuerteventura
A Cinematic Boost for Tourism
The small fishing community of El Cotillo, located in La Oliva, is experiencing a surge of excitement thanks to the trailer for Ridley Scott’s film Exodus. With thousands of views online, locals believe that the stunning visuals showcased in the trailer will serve as a powerful promotional tool for Fuerteventura. Stunning shots of the island’s pristine beaches and lakes are featured prominently, particularly the scenes depicting the miraculous opening of the Red Sea. As word spreads, cinephiles from around the globe are expected to flock to the island, wishing to experience these breathtaking locations for themselves.
The Allure of El Cotillo’s Natural Beauty
Residents, like Tita Roger, affirm that the coastline where Scott filmed the pivotal scenes—often referred to as “the lakes of El Cotillo”—is nothing short of paradise. Roger emphasizes the area’s vastness and wild beauty, inviting visitors to experience its allure firsthand. “You’ll see that the landscapes have no secrets; they exude a unique beauty,” she noted. Local businesses, including bars and restaurants, stand to benefit significantly from the anticipated influx of tourists. Roger highlights the importance of this tourist activity for the community, suggesting it offers a chance to showcase the remarkable filming locations.
A Global Invitation to Explore
Fisherman Yubay López Rodríguez pointed out the international ramifications of Exodus. The film’s global release is likely to attract tourists from far-flung places such as America and Australia, all drawn to the enchanting waters and scenes depicted in the film. He insists that the impact on tourism will be significant, as Fuerteventura will be credited in the movie’s credits, further raising its profile among international audiences.
A Local Extra’s Experience
Local waiter José Luis Velasco had the unique opportunity to appear as an extra in Exodus, participating in the production for an impressive 29 days. Tall, slim, and dark-haired, Velasco met the criteria set by Scott’s team. He became integrated into the filming process, experiencing the excitement of working on a Ridley Scott film firsthand. Reflecting on his experience, he can hardly wait for the film’s release to see his contributions on the big screen and to reminisce about the beautiful beaches of Cofete and El Cotillo.
Tourism Interest Already Rising
The stunning locations captures the attention of visitors like Anne Filfil, an Italian residing in the area, who frequently visits the lakes with her children. She describes them as akin to the Caribbean, a place that envelops you in grandeur the moment you set eyes on it. Filfil anticipates that many movie lovers will come to revel in the environment showcased in Scott’s film.
A Retreat for Families
Among the many visitors is Oscar Díaz, a schoolteacher from Tenerife, who makes it a point to return to El Cotillo with his family during holiday breaks. Díaz appreciates the charm of small towns, finding solace in El Cotillo’s calm, walkable streets, and tranquil beaches that invite exploration and relaxation.
Official Interest and Future Prospects
Local authorities in La Oliva have already noted a rise in inquiries from foreign tourists intrigued by the filming locations of Exodus. Soledad Aguiar, a local council member, confirmed, “The film isn’t even out yet, and people are already expressing interest and asking about vacationing in our municipality.” This burgeoning interest paves the way for Fuerteventura to position itself as a natural film set, tapping into cinematic history while enhancing the community’s appeal as a tourist destination.
As this unlikely connection between cinema and tourism unfolds, El Cotillo stands to gain recognition and appreciation for its stunning landscapes and rich culture—thanks to the cinematic lens that has showcased it to the world.
