Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Spain / Balearic Islands / Formentera
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| | | Secluded beaches |  | Why go on holiday to Formentera?
For a taste of what the Balearic Islands used to be like. Formentera is the smaller sister of Ibiza (only 11 miles away) and offers secluded beaches and some excellent walking and cycling trails.
With its tiny population and whitewashed villages, the island is the ideal place to avoid the madding crowds.
How much does it cost?
At the time of writing, a week's half-board in a hotel at peak season is around £500. Charter flights to Ibiza from £85, then take the fast ferry to Formentera - under £10 each way. Expect to pay £60 a night for a three-star hotel (high season). There are a number of cheap hostels on the island. Hotels cut their prices in low season.
All holidaymakers must now pay the Balearic Tourist Tax which is either paid to your hotelier on arrival or added to your bill. Rates vary according to the rating of your accommodation and range from 0.50 euros (around 30p) to two euros (£1.20) per person per day. It doesn't apply to children under 12 years of age.
When should I go?
Unlike Ibiza, Formentera never gets completely overwhelmed by visitors - even at the height of summer. Most are day-trippers from Ibiza. The weather is pleasant from May until early October.
June, July and August enjoy an average 11 hours of sunshine a day. Summer temperatures reach the high 80Fs (25C+) but May is a pleasant average of 70F (21C).
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| | | Scenic countryside | | What should I do when I'm there?
Sant Francesc Xavier is the capital of Formentera. With a population of only 794, it is probably the smallest in the world. The white hamlet consists of a few pleasant cafes overlooking sunny plazas.
The town's oldest building is a 14th-century chapel. The Ethnological Museum is worth a visit.
What's the best way of getting about?
Because Formentera is so flat, the best way to see the island is by bike. These can be hired for about £4 a day. Make sure you pick up a Green Tours brochure. This has details of 19 excellent walking and cycling trails through the scenic countryside.
Apart from the main port of La Savina the island has a smattering of small villages and settlements. You'll also find a number of interesting archaelogical sites.
What are the beaches like?
If you're allergic to sand, then avoid Formentera. You'll be hard-pressed to spend more than a couple of days exploring the island. After that, it's time to find your place in the sun.
The best beaches are Platja de Llevant and Platja de ses Illetes - two beautiful stretches of sand in the extreme north of the island. Many people prefer the southern coast. Here, the beaches are rockier but more secluded. A favourite haunt for nudists.
And if I've had enough sun-worship?
For something different spend a day at the tiny fishing village of Es Calo. The settlement is clustered around a tiny rock cove. The faded timber boat shelters make for great photographs. East of Es Calo are some delightful swimming holes.
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| | | Tasty fish dishes | | Where's good for nightlife?
The main tourist resort, Es Pujols, is 3km east of La Savina (where the ferry comes in) and is the only place on Formentera with any nightlife to speak of. The island is more of a retreat from Ibiza's full-on partymania.
What's the food like?
You'll find delicious local food such as seafood, paella and tapas on offer.
What should I buy?
Leather goods and pottery are Balearic specialities, but again, Ibiza offers more shopping.
What is there for children to do?
Formentera is too small to accommodate children's amusements, but they will enjoy the sandy beaches. Ibiza offers more worldly attractions for kids, such as Aguamar Water Park and the 25-acre Fiestaland Sports Complex.
Tourist office
Spanish National Tourist Office, 22-23 Manchester Square, London W1M 5AP. Tel. 020 7486 8077. Brochure line: 09063 640630 (60p per minute).
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| | Available rental properties in Formentera |
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