Formentera is the smallest of the four large Balearic islands: about 20 km from east to west and just over 80 km², with about 12,000 inhabitants. It has no airport and is reached only by sea from Ibiza. Visitors arriving from its busy neighbour find a surprising calm: white houses, dry-stone walls, fig trees propped on poles, salt pans, lighthouses and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean.
Getting there and around
Ferries leave from Ibiza Town and arrive at La Savina, the island's only port: fast boats take about 30-35 minutes, slower car ferries about an hour. On the island people get around by bicycle on the camins verds, the network of waymarked routes, by scooter, electric car or bus. In summer the island caps the number of vehicles allowed in, to protect the environment.
Main places
- Sant Francesc Xavier, the small capital, with an 18th-century fortified church and little squares.
- La Savina, the port, near the Estany Pudent and Estany des Peix lagoons.
- Es Pujols, the main resort, with bars and restaurants.
- Sant Ferran de ses Roques, a village with the historic Fonda Pepe.
- La Mola, the eastern plateau, with its lighthouse and craft market.
- Cap de Barbaria, the southern tip, with a lighthouse in an almost desert landscape.
See places to visit.
Sea and nature
The beaches of Ses Illetes and Llevant, on a sandy spit in the north, and the long Migjorn coast in the south are famous for their clear water, thanks to the meadows of Posidonia oceanica, a UNESCO site since 1999 together with Ses Salines natural park, shared with Ibiza. See the beaches and nature and hiking.
Island life
Evenings on Formentera are quiet and stylish: sunset drinks on the beach, seafood dinners, a few bars in Es Pujols. Clubbers head to Ibiza. Also discover the food, festivals and traditions and crafts.
When to go
The season runs from May to October. June and September are best: warm sea, fewer crowds and lower prices. July and August are crowded and expensive, and accommodation, scooters and ferries should be booked well ahead. In winter many places close.