When in the Balearic Islands, be sure to spend time in Formentera, the smallest of the main four islands. Here, the terrain ranges from rocky cliffs lined with hiking and biking trails to the secluded beaches and sand dunes of Illetes and Migjorn. While there aren’t as many things to do in Formentera as in neighboring, party-packed Ibiza, many say this is a good thing. Explore the island at a relaxed pace and do some serious sunbathing and book reading, or add some adventure with stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, or cycling.
You’ll want nice, warm, sunny weather for your trip to Formentera, so come during the summer months (June–August). Spring and fall are also warm, but the closer you get to the winter months, the chillier the air and water will be. However, there will be fewer tourists then, and prices for flights and accommodation will be a bit lower.
It’s easy to get to Formentera from Ibiza. Just take a ferry, which takes around 30 minutes to an hour. Once there, hop on the tourist bus or regular bus that takes you to beaches such as the peaceful Cala Saona with charming boat houses and a relaxed bar, or Calo des Morts for swimming and snorkeling in the rock pools. Consider renting a bike, scooter, or even an electric car to visit all corners of the island.
If you get a little antsy from sunbathing and swimming all day, then head out on a little adventure to visit the lighthouses. Hop on a bike or scooter to check out Faro Cap de Barbaria on the southern end of the island, and then head over to the cliffs in the east to see another lighthouse, Far de la Mola.
