Things To Do In Formentera

Visitors to the island of Formentera can either relax on the stunning beaches surrounding the island or visit remains dating back to Roman times. There are many impressive sights to see and a very interesting Ethnological Museum. By visiting these sights, it is easy to imagine what life was like in days gone by. The attractions are all situated in stunning villages, which can also be explored and enjoyed.

Sant Francesc

This small town is the capital of Formentera and is surrounded by sea on one side and two large lakes on the other. It is a stunning area and is where you will find all of the governmental buildings and central services.
There is very little pollution here as visitors are asked to ride bicycles and not drive around in cars.

The Fortified Church

This church was built in 1729 and is located in the principal square of Sant Francesc. It is one of the main sights and is stunningly designed and very well maintained. It is the most important church on the entire island and was originally a fortress. Today, the church is an impressive and imposing building.

Cap de Barbaria

This is located on the southernmost tip of Formentera and takes its name from the confrontations with the Barbary Coast pirates from the North African state of Morocco. It is situated approximately five miles from Sant Francesc and has an impressive tower and lighthouse that date back to the 18th century.

Ca Na Costa

This is a stone circle which is believed to be a megalithic tomb dating back to 1600 BC. It can be found very close to the capital, Sant Francesc, and is the only stone circle to ever be discovered on any of the Balearic Islands.

El Campamento de Can Blai

These are the remains of a Roman settlement, which can be found in Sa Caló. They give a fascinating insight into the lives of the Romans who lived on the island and provide an excellent day out, especially for lovers of history and archaeology.

La Savina

This port will be your first glimpse of the island when travelling from Ibiza. It is a very important port and possibly the liveliest place on the entire island. You will find a tourist information office, a couple of luxurious hotels and a rather exclusive yacht club here. Like the capital, this port is surrounded by water, with the sea on one side and a lake on the other.

Beaches

You will find beautiful beaches on the island of Formentera. Cala Saona, in the west, has one of the best beaches to be found on the island. It rarely gets too crowded and is a great place to relax while watching the yachts come in to moor. The water is always very calm and crystal clear, making it a perfect location for snorkelling.

This beach does however attract nudists, so if you embarrass easily, it might be wise to visit another beach on the island. Beaches in the north include: Llevant, Es Pujols, Es Caló and Cala d'en Baster. Mitgjorn beach can be found in the south and Tramontana in the east.

Pilar de la Mola

This is a small village in the east of the island, home to the famous La Mola artisan market. You will find all sorts of local delights on offer including ceramics, jewellery, clothing and handicrafts. The village grew up around a little church and its cemetery, which was erected in 1784.

Las Salinas

This is a beautiful village situated in the north of the island. Authentic local Formenteran life can be experienced here, as most of the locals do not work in the tourist industry, nor do they really notice that there is a tourist industry. There are beautiful cottages to stay in and many people visiting the Ses Salines nature reserve, just north of the village, choose to stay in this area.

The reserve is home to many species of birds and other wildlife, with white sandy beaches surrounded by a crystal clear sea. It is possible to visit these beaches without hordes of tourists or giant apartment blocks overlooking the beach. It is a haven for those looking for tranquil surroundings. The village is just as peaceful, and if you enjoy a slow pace of life, Las Salinas makes an ideal destination. 

Museums
The island of Formentera is not renowned for its museums, but it is home to the excellent Ethnological Museum. The museum is situated in the capital and permanently exhibits a collection of tools, which were traditionally used by people from Formentera’s past. You will find farming equipment, fishing tools and salt production tools as well as furniture and clothing. It is a fascinating museum and gives a real insight into the everyday life of historic Formentera.