Day trip to Formentera
Explore the jewel of the MediterraneanFormentera, the soul of the Balearic Islands
Going on a day trip to Formentera is like travelling back in time to 1970’s Ibiza, before mass tourism and high rise buildings. Formentera is a tiny island (20km) which has kept its true Balearic soul and protected its traditions.
What should you expect? Crystal clear turquoise water and sandy beaches that look like the Maldives, narrow dirt tracks leading to small creeks, traditional Balearic houses and a very relaxed atmosphere. Keep in mind though that this come with a high price tag as everything has to be brought by boat to the island.
Formentera is best explored over a couple of days but if you only have a day you can still enjoy an unforgettable day trip.
HOW FAR is IT?
2 hours on the ferry leaving from Denia
MAIN ATTRACTIONS
Playa de Illetes, Playa de Mitjorn, Cala Saona
BUDGET
€ € € €
BEST TIME to VISIT
June and September
WHAT TO DO ON A DAY TRIP to FORMENTERA?
See the Barbaria Lighthouse
Hop on your scooter and drive to the West point of the island through fields and past traditional Formentera houses. The journey itself is worth it. Once you reach the lighthouse, you’ll enjoy stunning views over the bay. The road is very narrow so we only recommend it to bikes, scooters and very small cars.
Sunbathe with the jet set at Playa Illetes
If you only visit one beach in Formentera, make it Les Illetes. No wonder the likes of Beyonce, Sergio Ramos or Leonardo Di Caprio choose this bay to anchor their luxury yachts. Illetes has been voted in the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world and it’s not hard to see why. To avoid the crowds, walk to the end of the beach.
Explore the Old Town in St Francesc
San Francesc is the heart and soul of Formentera. Visit the local market for boho clothing and home goods and cute souvenirs. Try one of the delicious restaurants hidden in romantic courtyards. Sample a local ice cream at Makkunda and watch as the village awakens after the siesta.
Swim and snorkel at Cala Saona
All the beaches in Formentera are stunning in their own way but Cala Saona really has it all. Beautiful turquoise water? Check. Family-friendly shallow water? Check. Great place to snorkel and cliff jump? Check. Picturesque fishermen houses and boats? Check.
You can’t go wrong with Cala Saona.
WHERE TO EAT in FORMENTERA?
Formentera cuisine has its own strong identity : a colorful blend of Balearic, Italian and Moorish influences. It’s a fantastic place to sample fresh fish and seafood as well as delicious Italian and Spanish cuisine. Price-wise, expect a higher price tag than on the mainland. Everything has to be brought by boat to Formentera which means that all imported good will be expensive. For a more affordable bill, stick to local & fresh products.
Es Calo
One of the most beautiful places to share a meal in Formentera, the water around Es Calo is simply stunning. Es Calo specializes in paellas and fresh fish dishes. Their star dish: lobster and potatoes paella. Prices are a tad high but the location justifies them 100%.
Do book in advance though as it gets BUSY.
+34.971.327.311 wwwrestauranteescalocarta.com Carrer del Vicari Joan Marí, 14
Can Carlos
A local institution in Formentera. We love the romantic setting, the beautiful courtyard and the relaxed atmosphere. You’ll enjoy traditional Spanish food with a modern twist, all prepared with local ingredients.
Service is always impeccable. Great for special occasions.
+34.971.322.874
Carrer d’Isidor Machabich, San Francesc
Chezz Gerdi
You go to Chezz Gerdi for the atmosphere more than for the food, although the food is very nice. Chezz Gerdi is always buzzing with a younger crowd and it’s a great spot for a drink on the beach while people watching. Chezz Gerdi is also a fantastic boho wedding venue if you’re tying the knot in Formentera.
+34648020106
Camí s’Abeuradeta 40, Es Pujols
Bona Espina
One of the most Instagrammable places in Formentera. The boho/green decoration is so beautiful and it’s a great place for a romantic dinner. The food does not disappoint, with good breakfast and brunch options as well as Spanish Cuisine with an international touch ( vegetarian and vegan options available).
+34682883580
Carrer de Santa Maria, 14, San Francesc
Cafe del Lago
The perfect spot to end a day in Formentera or to stop before catching the ferry. Located on the edge of the lagoon, the restaurant has beautiful views over the Marina, especially at sunset. Run by Italians, the food is fresh and always delicious, especially the pizzas. Prices are reasonable for Formentera and the service is very friendly.
+34971323187
Av. Mediterrània, 20, La Savina
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR DAY TRIP TO FORMENTERA
1- Formentera can only be accessed by boat: from Denia (2h15 min) or Ibiza (40min). You can easily book your tickets on Balearia.com
Don’t forget your passport!
2- Some areas of Formentera are part of a Natural Park (The Illetes beach is part of it). This means that access is controlled and you will have to pay a small fee to help maintain and protect the park. Cars pay around 5-6€, scooter 3€ and bikes and foot passengers are free. Only park in the official car parks and make sure to take all your rubbish with you when you leave.
3- If you are only going for a day you will need to hire a car or a scooter to get around the island quickly. All the rental agencies are right outside the marina, you can’t miss them.
4- Formentera is a very safe little paradise BUT please keep in mind that there are many inexperienced scooter drivers who spend the afternoon boozing on the beach before driving back to their hotels/villas. Accidents are frequent and can be serious. If you are not an experienced scooter driver, hire a car or stay away from the main road that runs across the island. There are many smaller tracks that are much safer.
5- If you are hiring a vehicle for the day you will need to return it with full tank before heading back to the ferry. There are only 2 petrol station in Formentera and they get very busy at the end of the afternoon, so keep that in mind when organizing your day.