The Balearic Islands are blessed with seemingly endless sun, gorgeous white sand beaches, beautiful bays and secrets coves to explore by boat, as well as so many resorts, restaurants, shops, landscapes to explore and activities to partake in on land that it can be difficult to know where to start your holiday.
Made up of Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca and the littlest iteration, Formentera, these Spanish isles have long attracted travellers seeking a slice of the good life for their holidays, and the beauty of this archipelago is that the islands all offer something a little different to suit the varying desires of their guests.
The flagship White Isle of Ibiza is known for its party lifestyle, while Mallorca is renowned for its gorgeous landscape from beach to mountain, and Menorca provides a laidback escape, but here, we’re going to focus on friendly Formentera, Ibiza’s nearest neighbour and the island chain’s quieter little sister.
A curiously shaped island that appears to be a geographic anomaly, Formentera is barely connected in the middle, honed by thousands of years of shifting tides and wild winds. It is the most southerly and smallest of the Balearic Islands and home to high plateaus, Roman salt pans, mysterious seabirds, and Bronze Age settlements. In the island’s six whitewashed villages, some odd 12,000 inhabitants are self-sufficient and accustomed to stormy winters and burning summers.
So, if you plan a trip to Spain and fancy shifting away from what regular international travellers indulge in, then you need to check out Formentera, just be sure to check if you need to apply now with iVisa for your Schengen visa, if not then you’re all set for a fun-filled and fabulously freeing trip to Formentera. Read on to find out what we love about this blissful Mediterranean island.
Why go to Formentera?
Step off the ferry from buzzy Ibiza, just nine miles away, and you’ll immediately feel the difference between the two islands. The flat roads of Formentera are relatively car-free, so if you want a crowd-free Spanish holiday, this island must make its way to your bucket list.
The calm and quiet environment of the island may make you think you have travelled back in time, but this is just the vibe here, where late-morning bike rides are enjoyed, coffee is sipped while gazing at the waves crashing against the shores and long walks are taken before relaxing, long dinners are relished.
Once upon a time, the island was famously home to a hippy commune, and there’s still a faded air of this culture found in most of the island’s institutions. This island is known for its free, wild, and bohemian streak, and throughout the island, you will find meditation retreats, yoga spots and plenty of art. Also, every hotel is committed to instilling a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere that characterizes the essence of the island.
What to do in Formentera?
The azure waters, white sand beaches, and stunning coastal views of Formentera are calling out to you to take a break from your chaotic life and take long, lazy walks along the coastline. The island is a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts and nature lovers, so if you want to explore more than just beaches, then there are plenty of activities you can engage in.
Indulge in water sports adventures and do all sorts of activities like paddleboarding, sailing, or even try yoga in the middle of the sea. You could also partake in a kayak tour individually or as a group to explore Formentera’s imposing caves.
Why not take a trip to see the Cap de Barbaria lighthouse, an architectural landmark located in a remote part of the island, or make use of the many green routes for horse riding or cycling?
You’ll find some of the best beaches in the world on this island, so embrace the picturesque view of the likes of Playa de ses Illetes and other beaches, or perhaps rent a boat go sailing around the coast and indulge in a spot of snorkelling or diving.
Formentera remains largely undiscovered by international travellers, and this is where the island’s charm lies. It offers travellers and day-trippers a respite from Ibiza’s party frenzy and is the ideal option for travellers seeking a unique getaway. With construction controlled, limited hotels and no big chains or mega clubs, Formentera is a place to scour artisanal markets, take late-morning bike rides and watch the beautiful sunset from seafront bar stools.
So, if you need to take a break from the hubbub of modern life or the incessant partying, this is the place for you. It is Ibiza’s little sister and a worthy alternative to relax, unwind and rejuvenate.
The bottom line
Besides day-trippers seeking respite from Ibiza’s party culture, this island makes an excellent destination for families. Its laid-back nature is a huge plus and promises to help you unwind.
So, plan and experience a different, untouched side of the Balearic Islands.
