It's not unusual for people to sit back and dream about an island getaway, but it's a great idea to set the bar even higher by choosing to enjoy a mini island retreat within your true island vacation. You might wonder how this wonderful concept could even be possible, but it's really quite easy. Make your vacation plans today for a stay on Spain's incredible island of Ibiza, and a pleasant ferry ride will take you right over to the lovely little island of Formentera for a wonderful day trip as well.
About Formentera
Spain's smallest island, Formentera has been inhabited since way back during prehistoric times, and its ownership has changed repeatedly over the centuries. In order, it was first conquered by the Carthaginians before falling to the Romans and onto the Visigoths, the Byzantines, the Vandals and the Arabs. Ultimately, it came under the rule of Spain, where it remains to this day. Today, visitors are attracted to its pristine beaches that are surrounded by crystal-clear waters, and these are just a few of the activities that you can expect to enjoy during your day trip to Formentera.
Playa de Ses Illetes
Considered the most beautiful and popular beach on the island, Playa de Ses Illetes boasts vast sand dunes, clear waters and a gentle slope into the water that makes it the perfect spot for families traveling with young children to swim and safely enjoy the sea. You'll be able to rent a canoe or a catamaran right on the beach, and you'll also find equipment rentals for scuba diving, snorkeling, kite surfing and stand-up paddle boarding. Restaurants and bars are a few steps away, so you'll have everything that you need for a full day of fun and relaxation.
Playa de Llevant
While there are many beaches on the island of Formentera that allow visitors to disrobe, Playa de Llevant is known as the official nudist beach. It's quite private thanks to the presence of large sand dunes and surrounding trees, and it's a lovely spot for adventurous couples or singles to enjoy themselves. White sand and clear waters make for a pleasant setting, but be aware that the waters here have quite large waves. A short stroll takes you to restaurants and bars, and there are often parties that are open to the public held on this beach in the evenings. These include Latin-American parties and Flamenco parties, and both encourage a lot of drinking and dancing.
Es Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse
Many visitors of Formentera rent motor scooters for a fun and easy way to explore the island, and that's a great way to get out to this remote and popular working lighthouse. It sits on a high plateau that is nearly 330 feet above sea level, so the views are nothing short of extraordinary. You'll be able to see some of the Iberian Peninsula mountains as well as several beaches and incredible sea-meets-sky views. This area is also a breeding ground for several seabirds, and you won't want to miss the nearby natural cave. It's literally a big hole in the ground with a wooden ladder that allows you to climb down, and it eventually brings you out onto a large cliff that provides the perfect spot to stand and look out over the sea. History buffs will want to check out the watchtower that was built in 1763 as well.
The Ethnography Museum
Those who are interested in history are sure to enjoy this museum that houses exhibitions that showcase Formentera's long and varied history. You'll see many examples of early life on the island that include traditional clothing, furniture, utensils, tools, farming implements, fishing and hunting equipment and a section on the complicated way that salt was once produced on the island.
Club Tipic
Those who turn their day trip into a night trip may want to check out the fun experience that this popular nightclub offers. Pink Floyd headlined at this club when it opened in 1971, and it's just become bigger and better since that wonderful night. You never know who might show up to provide some live entertainment, and professional DJs keep the music going nightly. There's plenty of room to dance, the drinks flow from the full bar and all sorts of fun special events are held on a regular basis.
Fun Facts About Formentera
Hippie Hangout: Beginning in the 1960s, the island was noticed by the hippie generation, and they quickly made their way to Formentera's beaches for the perfect hangout scene. This island is often referred to as Ibiza's little hippie sister to this day.
The Bob Dylan Connection: Celebrities have been known to do some odd things, and Bob Dylan once decided to live in Formentera's Es Cap de Barbaria lighthouse for a bit.
