Visit Formentera, The Smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands For A Quieter Vacation

When it comes to summer in the Balearic Islands, many travelers flock to Mallorca and Ibiza, both excellent choices for a vacation in Spain. However, the islands’ little sister, Formentera is the perfect place for a quieter vacation with its crystal-clear waters and clean sand.

Nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, Formentera is for many a popular day trip by ferry from Mallorca or Ibiza. However, a longer stay on the island offers all the same attractions. The island’s idyllic beaches are backed by dunes and pine trees and offer some summer privacy for anyone seeking to simply relax. Meanwhile, the restaurants all serve delicious local and international cuisine and the island offers excellent hotels. Let’s take a look at some of the attractions offered by Formentera including fascinating archaeological sites, historic buildings and one special sandy cove perfect for relaxation.

Ca Na Costa – Megalithic ruins

For those travelers who enjoy history, Ca Na Costa is a funeral monument, built back in the early Bronze Age, somewhere between 2000-1600 BC. The ruins are located in the north of the island, between Estany Pudent and Es Pujols.

The funeral monument was first discovered in 1974 and makes a major contribution to the history of the island. Up until then, archaeologists and historians believed the oldest human settlements on Formentera were from the Punic era. However, after excavations were made at the site, the remains of people were discovered, along with ceramic and lithic artifacts used by them.

Far de la Mola – Historic Lighthouse

Located close to the village of El Pilar de la Mola stands the Far de la Mola lighthouse which was built in the 1880s. These days, the lighthouse offers some of the best views over the island and the Mediterranean Sea. In fact, on a clear day, you will see the island of Mallorca. Moreover, it is incredibly quiet up there, with no sounds of traffic or everyday life. If you are lucky, you could spot peregrine falcons swooping up over the cliffs where they have built their nests.

One truly fascinating aspect of Far de la Mola lighthouse is a monument at the site. On that monument, it states that the lighthouse had inspired Jules Verne to write his science fiction novel, Off on a Comet in 1877. Meanwhile, the lighthouse is still actively working and still guides ships passing to the south of the island.

Calo Des Mort Beach, Formentera

While Formentera isn’t as popular for summer tourists as Mallorca or Ibiza, some of the beaches can still get pretty crowded. When seeking total peace and quiet, among beautiful scenery, Calo Des Mort is the place to be. The beach is located around 5 km (3.1 mi) from San Francisco Javier, and about 8 km (5 mi) from La Savina, Formentera’s port. On arrival, a beautiful, natural landscape reveals crystal-clear waters and white sand. While the beach is fairly small, its beauty truly stands out.

As there are no amenities close by, take a tasty picnic with cool drinks with you. While it is blissfully quiet here, bear in mind that there is no lifeguard service at Calo des Mort.

Enjoy peace and quiet on the island of Formentera in the Balearic Islands of Spain. Learn more about the island from its official tourism website.