El Mirador de Morro Velosa: A Fuerteventura Icon Set for Revival

El Mirador de Morro Velosa, one of the most iconic spots in Fuerteventura, has been closed for five years. Recently, the island’s Cabildo has announced the initiation of rehabilitation works for this space, originally conceived by renowned architect César Manrique, although it was completed shortly before his passing. This restoration project, set to rejuvenate a beloved destination, promises to enhance both its functionality and appeal.

Funding and Scope of the Renovation

The rehabilitation project entails an investment exceeding one million euros, financed through European funds under the Plan for Sustainable Tourism in Fuerteventura by Nature, a part of the broader Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan. The responsibility for the renovation has been awarded to the company Ecología y Construcción Fesumar S.L. The works will encompass comprehensive repairs, including flooring, roofing, wall coverings, and both interior and exterior carpentry. Moreover, improvements will address accessibility, spatial redistribution, an expansion of the café, and the creation of a terrace, ensuring that visitors can better engage with the stunning surroundings.

Voices of Support

Lola García, the president of the Cabildo, emphasized the importance of these repairs. She stated, “The renovation works will make this space more functional and attractive for both residents and visitors, serving as a point where the vastness of our arid zones can best be appreciated.” Accompanying her at the announcement were the island’s tourism counselor, Marlene Figueroa, and the museums counselor, Rayco León, alongside Betancuria’s mayor, Enrique Cerdeña, highlighting community support for the project.

Evolution of Morro Velosa

Since its inauguration in the 1990s, El Mirador has transitioned from a restaurant and café into a center for interpreting the Betancuria Rural Park. With the designation of Fuerteventura as a Biosphere Reserve, the location adapted to focus on disseminating natural and ecological information through panels, models, and exhibitions that cover topics like biodiversity, soil, hydrology, and the island’s unique cultural heritage.

The Visitors’ Experience

The site, with its two-story structure, became one of the island’s most visited cultural venues, largely due to its free entry and strategic location along the Betancuria tourist route. Notable features, such as the “Túnel del viento” (Tunnel of Wind) and panoramic views of the central Fuerteventura landscape, attracted numerous visitors. However, the closure of the site arose from structural issues, including falling tiles and conservation deficiencies, necessitating this wide-ranging renovation.

Despite the closure, the site has not lost its allure. Over the years, residents and tourists have continued to visit the vicinity, often approaching on foot or by vehicle to areas accessible around the construction zone.

The Vision of César Manrique

César Manrique envisioned this mirador as a window to the arid landscapes of Majorera. Following the restoration efforts, the Cabildo aims to relaunch the mirador in 2026 as a Center for Interpretation of Arid Zones. This aligns seamlessly with Manrique’s original vision, allowing visitors to engage deeply with the unique ecology of the region.

In summary, the revival of El Mirador de Morro Velosa stands as a testament to Fuerteventura’s commitment to preserving its cultural and natural heritage, ensuring that this cherished landmark continues to inspire and educate. As the renovations unfold, anticipation grows for its reopening and the role it will play in promoting awareness of the island’s ecological values.