Formentera Holidays Deals 2024

Formentera is Ibiza's little sister to the south, a pretty island which easily houses some of the best beaches in Europe. Too often overlooked in favour of the Balearic big hitters to the north, Formentera is everything you could want from a Mediterranean island; seclusion, tranquillity and ever-so-attractive crystalline shores. It’s an island built for relaxation. In fact, the island has its own environmental ethos to prevent over-development. The result: Formentera holidays are among the most serene in the world.

The top 5 things to do in Formentera

1. Explore the Parc Natural de Ses Salines

This gorgeous nature reserve stretches from the southern tip of Ibiza to the north of Formentera. Complete with sparkling salt flats and pink-hued marshes, Sel Salines is an important haven for sea birds and migrating flamingos. It’s a tranquil place to explore and bird watch, with immensely charming beaches and uninhabited islands to the north, including Platja Llevant and Espalmador. The whole region is a treasure to discover and unwind in.

2. Watch waves crash at Cap de Barbària

Cap de Barbària is the Balearic Islands’ southernmost point, a rocky, secluded landscape with magnificent cliffs and caves. It's an ideal place to wave watch, particularly at sunset, with captivating views across the pretty 1970’s lighthouse, Far de Barbària. Bob Dylan once lived inside the lighthouse itself for inspiration. There’s no wonder; the views are romantic and timeless, especially from the dusty, centuries-old Torre des Garroveret watchtower.

3. Relax on the beach

Formentera has plenty of world-class beaches, especially in the north. Cala Saona is one of the west coast’s best beaches. It’s a picture-postcard, powder-soft white sandy beach which remains undeveloped and laid back. Kayaking here is an unforgettable experience with pretty island views.

4. Visit the island’s winery

Bodega Terramoll is a 13-hectare winery in the east of Formentera which produces a range of delicious local wines. Open for tastings and tours, you can get a feel for how the Balearic terroir influences the wines. Terramoll's privileged position on a high plain offers excellent views over to the aqua coast. Their Savina white wine is a truly local blend, made with indigenous grapes like Malvasía and dominated by tropical fruits.

5. Charter a boat

You can't truly experience the Balaerics without sailing over its crystalline waters and experiencing the swell of warm sea air. An afternoon charter is a truly special experience, complete with spectacular sunset views of the ocean and islands. You can depart from La Savina to circumnavigate the entire island, cross the strait to Ibiza or simply soak up a single fetching stretch of coastline.

Our best hotels in Formentera

1. Paraíso de los Pinos 4*

Located in the tranquil south of the island, close to Mal Pas and Platja de Migjorn, Paraíso de los Pinos offers instant access to crystalline waters, secluded beaches and breathtaking coastal trails. This pretty, leafy area of charming white-washed residences is the stuff of dreams. What's more, the hotel boasts a sun-kissed pool and tennis court.

2. Apartments Castavi

This relaxing, bright and airy accommodation option is located just moments from Ses Salines in delightful Es Pujols, home to delightful seafood restaurants. The rooms are maintained to a modern white-washed Balearic style. It comes with a child-friendly pool with easy-access to crystal-clear beach waters.

3. Fiesta Hotel Cala Gracio 3*

Located in the neighbouring island of Ibiza in a pretty, secluded cove, Fiesta Hotel Cala Gracio is a peaceful resort with excellent sailing links. Sailing from Ibiza Town to Formentera takes just 30 minutes, with longer connections from San Antonio. Back at base, you can relax in the quiet pool area with a Jacuzzi and two well-stocked bars.

When is the best time to go on holiday to Formentera?

Formentera is blessed by year-round ideal weather. Temperatures rise through spring and summer with little rain, making it an ideal season to sail and explore the island’s beaches and coastal treats. May sees highs of 23°C, reaching highs of 30°C in August. The autumn to winter seasons rarely dip below 10°C, with more cloudy periods and occasional rainy days. Nevertheless, this is a perfect time to enjoy Formentera and the Balearic Islands' in-land activities, including spectacular hiking trails, climbing and cycling routes.

Going on holiday in Formentera

Formentera doesn't have an airport, making the trip there an experience in and of itself. The quickest entry point is flying to Ibiza Airport and crossing the sea with a ferry. Ferries depart from Ibiza Town port regularly, giving you ample opportunity to explore Ibiza on your trip too. You can buy tickets on the spot but be warned, ferries can get busy during peak summer season with discounts found only in advance. Once you arrive on the island, you’ll find a wealth of transport options, including tour buses, public buses, bikes and rental cars. Tour bus services are a great idea if you’re just visiting the top spots, but a rental car or bike will get you to those more secluded and tranquil areas. The island itself is small and easily traversed with a bicycle.

How long should you stay in Formentera?

Most visitors spend only a day in Formentera, visiting from Ibiza to the north. You can pack a surprising amount of activities and sights into a few hours, from the pretty capital of Sant Francesc Xavier and its fortified church, Església de Sant Francesc, to the idyllic beaches of the Trucador Peninsula. You can round out your trip by watching the sunset at Far de Sa Mola, before heading to Es Pujols for the island's only nightlife. However, a full week will give you ample time to simply relax and revive on the secluded beaches to the south, with plenty of opportunities to explore the island’s hidden gems and coastal islets.

The Voyage Privé travel expert’s opinion on Formentera

Despite being so close to its bigger sister, Ibiza, Formentera is miles away in atmosphere. Blissful and restful, Formentera is the ultimate escape for those looking to get away from it all. The lack of a significant nightlife scene and the absence of major tourist sites and attractions make the island all the more appealing. Whether you’re heading over for a day or two to escape the bustle of Ibiza or you’re looking for a week-long beachside respite, Formentera is perfect for those seeking that sea-and-sand paradise without the crowds. Never has doing nothing felt so good!