Formentera is undoubtedly the most peaceful and beautiful island in the Balearic archipelago. Once a haven for hippies like Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan, today, the island has earned its place among the favourite summer destinations of the rich and famous. Many travellers are lured on the white sand of its beaches or in the depths of its turquoise waters out of curiosity only to eventually fall in love with the island and pledge their undying loyalty. Because when you visit Formentera, you visit paradise!
Enjoy the Caribbean vibes
Europeans no longer need to fly long hours to reach an exotic destination. The beaches of Formentera beautifully recreate the tropical scenery of the Caribbean beaches and invite travellers to relax on the purest and whitest sand that has ever dressed a European beach. The water’s azure shades dazzle and mesmerize, while the outstanding variety of water sports allows even the most active visitors to find endless sources of fun and entertainment.
The most famous beach of all is Ses Illetes, a common presence in various tops that discuss the most beautiful beaches in the world. With its fantastic turquoise crystalline water and extraordinary ribbon of soft sand, Ses Illetes can easily compete with any Caribbean beach and win the race.
The longest beach in Formentera is Platja Migjorn, a sheltered bay shaped like a boomerang, ideal for family fun in the sun, snorkelling, and dining with a view. If you’re travelling with babies or toddlers look no further than Roccabella, a bay in the northeastern part of the island protected from wind and home to some of the best rock-pooling in Formentera.
If you want to escape the crowds and spend some moments by yourself or in the company of your loved ones, head to S’Espalmador, an uninhabited reserve that surprises you with breathtaking views and pure white sand.
Conquer the island’s aquatic kingdom
Formentera is an ideal destination for practising an abundance of water sports. Due to its crystal clear deep blue waters, snorkelling and diving reward tourists with memorable underwater experiences. Snorkelling rules supreme in El Calo des Mort, a wonderful swimming lagoon ideal for discovering the island’s fascinating marine life. The water is the clearest and the bluest on the island, and the views are incredible.
Adventurers who prefer to go deeper into the beautiful underwater world of Formentera should start their journey at Es Freus Marine Reserve and Es Raco Alt. While the first tempts divers with massive unique formations, the latter has prepared fascinating sand-bottomed caves and a world of colourful fish. If you’re craving for more, head to the tiny northern islands of Espalmador and S’Espardell. There awaits the Ses Salines Natural Park and its azure waters.
However, don’t think that all the fun happens only underwater. The beaches of Formentera are always ready to delight visitors with stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. While the island’s utmost serenity keeps away the wind and doesn’t create the best surf conditions, Playa de Migjorn invites water sports aficionados to try windsurfing in a wild setting that reflects the island’s authentic spirit.
Embrace the island’s tranquility
The island is compact and serene, and you’ll find plenty of spots where you can enjoy the silence. The only real holiday resort is Es Pujols but doesn’t expect a developed urban scene. Es Pujols is a petite village with a marvellous beach that invites visitors to slow their pace and listen to their inner voices. Despite its relatively small size, the village has a great selection of restaurants, bars, and shops, and provides accommodation for every budget. However, if you prefer larger luxury resorts, Playa Migjorn is the ideal destination for you.
Leave the soft white sand behind for a while and discover the island’s fabulous hiking and cycling routes. Follow the road that leads to the sensational historical salt flats of Ses Salines where you will be welcomed by an extravaganza of pink salt pools set against blue skies. The Ses Salines Natural Park is home to an impressive selection of salt marshes and wetlands that offer bird-watching opportunities.
On the eastern shore of the island, you’ll find Pilar de la Mola, an elevation of the island with no beaches in sight but home to a picturesque lighthouse and a string of windmills. Visit this place on a Wednesday or Sunday, and don’t miss your chance to visit the traditional Hippie markets overflowing with local artisan products.
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