A Focus on Formentera.

Although frequently overshadowed by the larger party isle of Ibiza, Formentera is proof that some of the best things come in small packages. It is the smallest and most southerly of the Balearic Islands and for many, it is the stuff that dreams are made of. Balmy year round temperatures and miles of pristine, white sandy beaches are at your disposal.

An introduction to Formentera

Only measuring 12 miles long, there are certainly no cities on Formentera, only a number of small towns and villages. The main town, San Francisco Javier, is found near to the harbour. The distinct lack of museums, galleries or large tourist attractions will be immediately apparent as soon as you set foot here, although that said, there are a few historic monuments around the island including the 14th century Sa Tanca Vella Chapel and the Cap de Barbaria Megalithic Settlement, the home of what are believed to the islands’ first settlers.

Laze on the beach

The fantastic beaches are of course a main focal attraction and there are many to choose from. Some of the best include Platja Llevant and Cala Saona, amongst others. The beaches are blissfully empty, a stark contrast to Ibiza and the mainland, and the wonderfully clear waters are a haven for snorkelling. If you are unprepared you can buy snorkelling sets on the island for less than 20 Euros and it is well advised; you will gaze in wonderment at the variety of fish and underwater life. There are also two large lagoons on the island; Estany de Peix and Estany Pudent.

Perhaps the only things to consider before a beach day on Formentera is the wind direction as you may find your selected beach is a little rough. If this is the case, the beauty of such a small island means you can just hop in your car and head to the next one without the slightest interruption to your day. Nude sunbathing on Formentera is commonplace, so it’s best to remember that one too.

Get active

When it comes to other activities, hiking and cycling are high on the list. The island is small and easily traversed thanks to the myriad of well-marked trails and paths. The island is vastly flat, but there are certain areas where you will find fantastic cliffs. Explore the pine forests, salt marshes and sand dunes to your heart’s content. When you get hungry, there are many small simple cafes and restaurants, independently owned by the locals, offering cheap and tasty food. You will find them dotted all over the island so a place to eat is never far away.

Getting there

The simplistic nature of the island is further proven in the absence of an airport. Getting here shouldn’t be a hurdle however. If you are based for the most part of your holiday on the Spanish mainland, you can catch a ferry with your hire car from Barcelona, Valencia or even Denia to Ibiza. From there, you catch a ferry to Formentera, a journey which only takes half an hour. In the summer months, ferry schedules from Ibiza are frequent so you will never have to wait long and you can a direct ferry from Denia to Formentera during this time.

If you plan to stay for more than one day there is a selection of locally run hotels to be found but if you are going during peak season, pre booking is essential to avoid disappointment, especially as camping is forbidden on the island.

Formentera is a celebration of natural beauty and the pursuit of holiday happiness through outdoor activities. If that sounds like heaven to you, you had best make a beeline for Formenera this summer!