Formentera holidays are big on beaches, boat trips, and peace and quiet.
Formentera might be the smallest of the Balearic babes, but it packs a big beachy punch. Expect immaculate sands and hidden coves, and don’t be surprised if you’ve got a stretch to yourself. The dreamy coastline’s dotted with peaceful resorts and cute villages, and you can easily explore them all thanks to the island’s diddy size. Life moves at a much slower pace here than on its neighbouring islands, so embrace the zen vibes with horizontal lounger time, scenic strolls along the seafront and lots of local culture. And if you fancy a trip to one of the sister islands, you can catch a boat over to Ibiza in just 30 minutes.
Why pick Formentera
Beaut beachesFormentera’s coastline’s the star of the show. Its beaches give Majorca and Ibiza a run for their money – they’re just as unreal, and a ban on building near the sand makes them some of the prettiest in Europe. There are 12 miles of sunbathing spots, and there’s a chance you won’t have to share with anyone else. Migjorn, Llevant and Ses Illetes are popular picks for their powdery sweeps and shallow water. Cala Saona’s got those aesthetic red cliffs, or for something more secluded, Es Caló’s hidden coves are perfect for snorkelling.
Village life
Whitewashed houses and narrow streets – Formentera’s villages are super quaint. Even the island’s capital – Sant Francesc Xavier – is on the cute side. It’s got a sweet square lined with cafes and boutiques, and finished with a palm-lined church. La Mola meets the laidback brief with its hilltop scenes and artisan market – hunt for handmade crafts, sip on a sangria and watch the world go by or wander along the coast to the lighthouse.
Watersports win
Formentera’s a big name in the watersports world. Playa de Migjorn’s reliable breeze and wide-open water make the perfect combo for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The compact coastline’s easy to get around on a kayak or paddleboard, and it’s a great hack for finding secret swim spots, too. The island’s also a strong destination for diving, with sites like Punta Pedrera serving up thriving marine life and underwater caves.
Natural beauty
The north side of the island is home to Ses Salines Natural Park. The protected area’s had UNESCO status since 1999 for its rich biodiversity, salt flats and sand dunes. Set off on a walkthrough the pine groves and along the coastal trails, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife. It’s a nesting spot for migrating birds, and over 210 species have been recorded here – you might even see flamingos.
Our pick
Take it from someone that's been there – here’s a top tip from our team:
‘The best way to explore the island is by hiring a bike or a car for a tour. It’s super easy to get around and there’s hardly any traffic on the road. I drove to Far de la Mola at the top end, which has got an unreal view of a lighthouse and the ocean. Then, I found Cavall d'en Borras beach – all the beaches are signposted, even the ones that are tucked away. The water was warm and crystal clear, with the most golden sand I've ever seen in Europe.’ – Jessica Fonseca
Festivals and Events
Here are the highlights from Formentera’s cultural calendar…
Formentera Jazz Festival
What: a celebration of all things jazz
Where: all around the island
When: early June
Key highlights: live performances from local and international artists, jam sessions, open-air concerts.
Sant Jaume Festival
What: a day all about Formentera’s patron saint
Where: Sant Francesc Xavier
When: 25 July
Key highlights: parades, live music, traditional dances and fireworks.
Formentera Film Festival
What: an international film festival
Where: Sant Francesc Xavier
When: May
Key highlights: screenings of short films and documentaries, plus creative workshops and Q&A sessions.
Picks That Don’t Cost a Penny
The Ethnological Museum of Formentera
Did someone say free history? This tiny museum in Sant Francesc Xavier’s dedicated to all things Formentera, from its origins and culture to the lives of the islanders. You’ll see old agricultural machinery and traditional costume on display, plus you can learn all about the island’s wine industry and how it’s made.
The Non-Touristy Pick
None of the beaches here are going to feel seriously busy, but for an undiscovered vibe, check out Cala en Baster. The beach is rocky rather than sandy, which makes the water extra clear for snorkelling, and the sea caves carved into the cliff are the perfect shady spot.
Best places to stay
Es PujolsEs Pujols is the liveliest it gets on the island, and it barely feels big enough to be called a town. It nails the balance between beachy and buzzy, with a prom backed by bars and restaurants lining the stretch of sand. It’s had big boho energy since the Sixties, with beachfront yoga sessions, craft markets and al fresco cafés keeping the good vibes going today.
Platja de Migjorn
If packing in the beach time is your priority, pick Platja de Migjorn. This seven-kilometre sandy stretch is the island’s longest, so you’ll have plenty of space to yourself. It’s backed by a few beach bars and a couple of luxury hotels, but other than that, it’s been left pretty much untouched.
Getting around
Formentera’s mini size makes finding your way around a breeze…Bike hire
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the island. It’s all pretty flat, and you’ll find dedicated bike paths and super scenic routes everywhere, like the one between Sant Francesc Xavier and La Mola. There are loads of bike rental shops in the main towns that can get you set up with a pair of wheels.
Car hire
Hire your own car for ultimate freedom. You’ll be able to fit the whole gang in, plus getting from A to B will be much quicker. Keep an eye out for signposts to hidden beaches around the coastline.
Bus
If you’re on a budget, public transport’s the way to go. Formentera’s got a reliable bus service with five lines connecting the main towns and beaches. Depending on how far you’re going, it’ll cost you between €1.80 and €2.55.
Ferry
There’s no airport on the island, so you’ll fly into Ibiza where you’ll catch a ferry over to Formentera. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and there are regular services throughout the day. It’s a scenic ride, and you might even spot dolphins along the way.
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