Move over, Ibiza – there’s a new Spanish island stealing the spotlight, and it’s not even on most travellers’ radars.
This hidden gem in the Mediterranean boasts untouched landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and one of the world’s top 10 beaches, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a more authentic getaway.
Ditch the glamour of Ibiza and head to Formentera, the smallest of the Balearic Islands, for a more subdued retreat.
The island’s crowning glory is Platja Illetes, a pristine beach with white sand and turquoise waters that has been named one of the world’s best by Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 guide.
Located on the western tip of the Trucador Peninsula, Platja Illetes is, according to Lonely Planet, “as close a vision of the Caribbean (minus the coconut trees) as you could imagine in Europe”.
The guide warns: “You may never want to leave. Just offshore are the two small illetes (islets), Pouet and Rodona, that give the beach its name. In high season, expect lots of day trippers from Ibiza.”
However, Formentera is a far cry from Ibiza’s vibrant nightlife and crowded shores. The island is largely car-free, making cycling and walking the ideal ways to explore its secluded coves, rugged cliffs, and charming villages.
A haven for beach lovers, Platja Illetes boasts shallow, warm waters perfect for swimming, while its soft sand is ideal for sunbathing.
The beach is part of the Ses Salines Natural Park, a protected area teeming with wildlife and flora.
With its serene atmosphere and unspoiled landscapes, Formentera is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat.
The Natural Park of Ses Salines is a protected wildlife haven, home to flamingos and rare seabirds.
To make the most of your Formentera visit, hire a bike and explore the island’s network of trails that wind through pine forests, salt flats, and quaint fishing villages.
Don’t miss out on the Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the vast blue horizon.
When it comes to dining, indulge in fresh seafood served up by Formentera’s restaurants, straight from the Mediterranean. Be sure to try the local speciality, bullit de peix (fish stew).
Formentera is just a short ferry ride away from Ibiza, making it an ideal destination for a dual vacation on the Balearic Islands, where you can enjoy both enlightening sunsets and glittery nightclubs.