Formentera: What to see in the Spanish Island

Aug 3, 2020 | Travel Blog

If you are looking for tourist attractions in Formentera, in this section we give you a list of places that you cannot miss on the island given its tourist interest. Formentera has options for all tastes: art and culture, nature, sport, tradition, etc.

Below you will find a list of varied tourist attractions, so you can organise your trip by visiting those that interest you most. Let’s go!

1. Faro de la Mola

This lighthouse is located at the highest point of the island, just on the edge of a cliff of more than 150 meters. Thanks to the views it offers it has become one of the most visited places in Formentera, and one of the most photographed by tourists. Here’s some inspiration: Instagram images of the Mola lighthouse.
Follow these directions.

Visitar el Faro de la Mola en Formentera

Ses Salines Natural Park

The Ses Salines Natural Park, located between the islands of Ibiza and Formentera, is the main protected natural space of this island. Walking among its ponds, getting to know the biodiversity of the area, plunging into its crystal-clear waters and snorkelling among its seabed are some of the activities we recommend.

Vista al Parque Natural de Ses Salines

Megalithic tomb of Ca na Costa

This archaeological site has positioned itself as the most spectacular of the Balearic Islands among other similar funerary buildings. In addition, its location makes it one of the most visited tourist attractions, as it lies between the Estany Pudent pond and the town of Es Pujols, two other places that you must visit in Formentera.

The urban nucleus of San Francisco Javier


This town, thanks to its set of historical constructions, is undoubtedly the most interesting in Formentera, also it is a quick town to visit so you can combine it with other routes. During your visit you cannot miss the church of San Francisco Javier (Sant Francesc Xavier) and the historical complex we mentioned, called ‘Sa Raval’.

Núcleo Urbano de San Francisco Javier en Formentera

Museum of Ethnography of Formentera

Formentera culture fans will not be disappointed. Despite its small size, the island has an ethnographic museum to learn in detail about what traditional life was like among the island’s inhabitants. In addition to this museum, you can find an interpretation centre of the Ses Salines Natural Park and many other cultural activities.

 

Visitar el Museo de Etnografía en Formentera

WHAT TO DO IN FORMENTERA?

If you are looking for activities to do in Formentera during your stay, below we offer some ideas:

1. Shopping at artisan markets

The island has preserved its hippie essence and demonstrates it in the different markets that attract tourists to buy handicrafts and walk around their stalls. We recommend that you visit the La Mola hippie market, which you can do every Wednesday and Sunday from May to October in the heart of La Mola lighthouse.
Find out how to get there.

Ir al Mercadillo de La Mola en Formentera

2. Discover Formentera by bike

Formentera is ideal for cycling because of its small size and the amount of flat surface it offers. It also has well signposted cycle paths and green circuits, ideal for observing the island’s biodiversity and architecture.

 Recorrer en bici Formentera

3. Snorkel or dive

In another article we told you about the best beaches of Formentera, including some that are good for snorkelling or diving. The waters of Formentera invite you to immerse yourself in them, regardless of the beach. The pleasant temperature of the water throughout the year (22° to 27°), together with the great biodiversity it contains, make the island an ideal destination for fans of this sport.

Hacer snorkel en las playas de Formentera

4. Discover its coasts by Kayak

If you are passionate about water sports, you will love discovering the coasts of Formentera by kayak. The island’s small size and its good weather conditions will make it very easy for you. As well as getting unique views of its beaches, lighthouses and towers, you will be able to admire the marine fauna and flora from your boat.  

 Rutas en kayak en las playas de Formentera

5. Discover the mill route

Formentera has 6 windmills that are classed as cultural heritage of the island. You can combine the visit to some of them with other activities that we have suggested. You will love the traditional appearance of these mills, for more information about this click here.

A great gastronomy 

The most demanding pallets have an excellent reason to travel to Formentera and taste each of its gastronomic treats. Many of the specialities will leave you with an unforgettable taste in your mouth that will make you want to cook them for yourself when you go back home.

Many of its dishes and products have become gastronomic references, such as the Peix Sec de Formentera, a unique artisan speciality made by drying fish in the sun. This product is used in a multitude of typical dishes, such as ensalada payesa.

Ensalada payesa en Formentera

In general, the quality of the fish on the island is excellent and can be seen in many dishes: bullit de ratjada, rape a la cassolana, bonito casserole with fennel and capers, bull d´anfos, etc. Likewise, seafood also makes up many of the must-try dishes.

You can’t leave without trying other typical products from Formentera: liquid salt, artisan fresh cheese, honey, dried figs, bescuit, herb liqueur, etc. Shall we continue?

Peix sec en Formentera

Now that you have a guide with places to visit and plans to do in Formentera, organise your trip with your favourite ideas and enjoy this haven with personalised routes.

7 Restaurants to Go in Formentera

Formentera Food
Source: Nacho Pintos

It’s no secret that Formentera has long been an unspoiled, stylish little island, bathed in dazzling Mediterranean light. A slice of Caribbean paradise with it’s crystal turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, Formentera is an idyllic destination for travelers. The smallest Balearic island has a famously bohemian lifestyle which is perfectly reflected in the healthy, locally produced and ecologically minded cuisine served up in its restaurants. The following are a few special locations loved by locals and visitors  alike.

1. Juan y Andrea

Probably one of the most well-known and long-held establishments on the island, this restaurant offers up excellent seafood cuisine right on the sand in the stunning Playa Illetas. Run by the same family since 1971, this is the place to be seen if you want to rub shoulders with well known island celebrity regulars, or watch the glamorous crowd emerge from their yachts for an al fresco lunch. Certainly it’s upscale vibe is reflected in the prices, however Juan y Andrea is quintessential Formentera and not to be missed.

Information

  • Name: Juan y Andrea
  • Address: Playa de Illetas
  • Opening hours: 1pm – 7pm
  • Phone: +34 971187130
  • Website: www.juanyandrea.com

2. Tiburon

Tiburon, (the Shark Bar) is also located at Playa Illetas, really one of the most prettiest and most paradisiacal beaches on the island. Admire the outline of neighbouring big island Ibiza as you enjoy mouth watering mediterranean simple and healthy cuisine from your table on the terrace. Make sure to try the well-loved surf and turf (fillet steak with prawns) or one of the delicious salads. With your feet in the sea, relax and enjoy the ambience, the ideal place to let your troubles drift away.

Information

  • Name: Kiosko Tiburon
  • Address: Playa Cavall D’en Boras
  • Phone: +34 659 638 945
  • Website: www.tiburon-formentera.com

3. Beso Beach

This is one of the most fashionable beach hut style hang -outs on Formentera where you will supposedly find the best paella (seafood rice dish) on the island. With its palm canopy roof and sandy floor, Beso Beach is all about natural, rustic decor and chilled vibes. Many plates are made for sharing with tasty options such as black rice, paella and shellfish as well as popular Spanish meats like Jamon Iberico. Located in a secluded spot just steps from the sea at beautiful Playa de Cavall d’en Borras, Beso Beach also gets lively in the evenings for music and dancing.

Information

  • Name: Beso Beach
  • Address: Playa Cavall D’en Borras
  • Opening hours: 12.30 – 22.00
  • Phone: +34 622 222 113
  • Website: www.besobeach.com

4. Pizzeria Macondo

An Italian restaurant full of Italians can only be a good sign! If you’re looking for authentic, delicious, wood fired pizza this is the place for you. Huge portions and a wide and varied menu (including pasta and other mediterranean cuisine). Situated in the centre of San Ferrant, bustling Macondo is popular with locals and has been a long standing Formentera favourite for many years. Leave room for dessert because the pannacotta de dulce de leche is not to be missed! Be sure to arrive early for dinner as they do not take reservations and it can get busy at night, that’s what happens when you serve the best pizza on the island.

Information

  • Name: Pizzeria Macondo
  • Address: Career Major 67, Sant Ferran
  • Opening hours: 13.00 – 16.00 / 19.30 – 1.00
  • Phone: +34 971 32 90 69
  • Website: www.macondoformentera.com

5. Pirata

Ask anyone on the island about Pirata and they’ll tell you the same thing. It’s barely changed since it’s opening years ago. With it’s simple setting and easy vibe, it’s still the hippy haven it always was. Located right in front of of the most scenic coves on Playa De Illetas, Pirata serves up fresh and delicious sangria by the pitcher and is an idyllic spot to breathe and soak up the beach vibes. Try the lobster with fried eggs or pop by in the late afternoon for a coffee as you gaze out over transparent blue waters. Heaven.

Information

  • Name: Kiosko El Pirata
  • Address: Playa de Illetas
  • Phone: +34 971 324064
  • Website: n/a

6. Blue Bar

Sitting right on top of a sand dune at Platja de Migjorn, Blue Bar is where you will catch unrivalled views of the sunset. Supposedly in its hey day (it’s been open since the 60’s) Bob Marley and Jimi Hendrix would drop in. The food is international with Mediterranean and Asian flavours catering to a wide range of tastes. Casual and unpretentious, the ambience is groovy and there is often either live music or DJ sets all adding to the vibrant scene.

Information

  • Name: Blue Bar
  • Address: Sant Ferrant des ses roques
  • Opening hours: 12.00 – 4:00
  • Phone: +34 666 7581 90
  • Website: www.bluebarformentera.com

7. Es Moli de Sal

Known internationally for a high level of service and excellent quality cuisine, Es Moli de Sal is certainly one to tick off your Formentera bucket list. Set in a beautifully reformed salt mill, it’s prices may be a little higher than some of the other establishments, but it’s worth it for the exquisite views and spectacular scenery. Another island favorite in front line for a stunning sunset, the kitchen is famed for raw fish carpaccios and excellent seafood rice (people rave about the lobster). Es Moli de Sal is the kind of casual-chic, unique and unforgettable island experience travelers are looking for.

Information

  • Name: Es Moli de Sal
  • Address: Playa de Illetas
  • Phone: +34 971187491
  • Website: www.esmolidesal.es

For such a tiny island, Formentera has a truly impressive array of dining options, sure to please all types of food -lovers. The only problem you will have is deciding where to go next as you explore beach after pristine beach, tasting fresh seafood and sipping on cocktails as you admire yet another stunning view of azure waters. The magic and charm of laid-back Formentera will capture the hearts of all who visit.

Address

Fajardo St. #6 
Malaga, Andalusia 

(+34) 641 28 68 26

Open Hours

Monday – Friday: 10am – 7pm
Weekends: Closed

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