Formentera is the second largest island in the Pityusa Islands. It lies south of Ibiza. It is the fourth largest island in the Balearic Islands. The capital and main town is Sant Francesc de Formentera. The distance between the port on Ibiza and Formentera is less than 11 km. It is separated from Ibiza by a narrow isthmus (3.6 km), dotted with tiny islands. Formentera’s highest point is Sa Talaia (192 m above sea level). The length of the island from its western shore to the lighthouse in the east is 20 km, while at its narrowest point, Formentera is only 2 km.
About the island and attractions. Formentera is famous for its long, sandy beaches. The landscape is adorned with two saltwater lakes located in the north of the island. Due to the lack of freshwater, Formentera’s vegetation differs significantly from that of Ibiza. Formentera’s symbol is the Sargantana lizard (an endemic species). The beaches are considered the best on the entire Mediterranean coast. The island is famous not only for its “paradise” beaches but also for its naturist tourists. All beaches in Formentera are clothing optional. Fromentera’s longest beach is Platja/Playa Mitjorn (8 km), while the busiest and most popular beach is Illetes, including Llevant, which is located on the northern tip of the island. At the edge of the northern tip is the island of Espalmador, accessible by swimming. On Espalmador, you can enjoy a mud bath, which is considered therapeutic.
Beaches. The first thing you should do when you arrive on this island is head to the beach, and don’t hesitate for a second. Here, you’ll find dreamlike coves like Caló d’Es Morts and Cala Saona, as well as larger beaches like Ses Illetes and Es Migjorn. All of these places have several things in common: fine white sand, clear blue and turquoise waters that stretch to the horizon, and a tranquility you’ll breathe in as soon as your feet touch the sand.
Diving schools. The beaches are as spectacular above and below the surface. In Formentera, you’ll find diving schools that will allow you to explore the depths of its waters, which hide a multitude of rock formations rich in biodiversity, including the largest sunken ship in the entire Mediterranean – the Don Pedro, a cargo ship over 140 meters long. But don’t worry, if you’re still afraid of scuba diving and wetsuits, you can get your first taste of diving here. If not, snorkeling is still a great option to discover the life hidden in the island’s waters.
Lighthouses. One of the island’s great attractions is its lighthouses, from which you can admire the high cliffs and enjoy beautiful views. Cap de Barbaria is one of the most famous thanks to several big-screen performances and the Cueva Foradada, a hole in the ground that leads to a small balcony in the middle of the cliff from which you can admire the views. You also can’t miss the Faro de la Mola lighthouse, a true icon of Formentera, located at the highest point on the island and offering a fantastic view. Finally, Faro de la Savina is so close to the port that it will be the first and last thing you see on the island.
Small white villages. If there’s one thing that unites the towns of Formentera, it’s their appearance, where white adorns the facades of simple, functional buildings. Formentera is made up of six towns, but its capital is Sant Francesc, which has around 3,000 inhabitants and is the center of life for the island’s inhabitants. Here you’ll also find one of the island’s most famous markets, as well as numerous services and restaurants. La Savina is another of the island’s well-known towns, although the first one you’ll see because it’s here that ferries dock. La Savina is distinguished by its port and the many boats moored there, which multiply during the summer months. You’ll also enjoy getting lost in smaller towns such as Sant Ferran, Es Pujols, Es Caló de Sant Agustí, and El Pilar de la Mola.
Formentera may be a small island, but it offers a wealth of possibilities. From wonderful beaches to beautiful villages and lighthouses with spectacular views. Come and discover one of the jewels of the Mediterranean
