The tiny island of Formentera is part of Spain’s sun-kissed Balearic Islands. Located to the south of Ibiza, the hushed resorts of Formentera feel like a world away from the clubbing hotspots of Ibiza, such as San Antonio Town. Here on Formentera, a tight clutch on building regulations has seen a careful and considered approach to development, especially around the pristine beaches – you won’t catch sight of any ugly, high-rise blocks on this flat and beautiful island.

The Mediterranean Sea washes gently onto white sands on Formentera. A dazzling palette of jewel-like blues and greens paint the transparent waters around the shoreline and bathers can wade in for quite some distance before having to swim. These gorgeous and safe beaches are therefore perfect for families of all ages.

Travelling hippies paved the way for tourism on this sunny Spanish outpost some 50 years ago and a bohemian, relaxed vibe remains to this day. It is possible to hire a car in Formentera, though many visitors opt for two wheels and get about by bicycle under their own (environmentally friendly) steam.

All this is not to say that a Formentera holiday is without rainbow-coloured cocktails and crisp Spanish beers; the resort of Es Pujols is the liveliest on Formentera and its promenade is packed with friendly bars and family-run restaurants. The harbour town of La Savina, home to millionaire’s yachts and a handful of excellent beaches, is another great base with just enough nightlife. The long sandy beach of Migjorn has also attracted hotels, restaurants and bars to the area.

Cheap holidays to Formentera are easy to come by, especially during the peak season on the island (find out more about that in our guide on when to go, below). Visitors arrive at Ibiza Airport and catch one of the fast and frequent ferries to Formentera. You will be glad you went that little bit further when your feet sink into pillow-soft sands and those warm azure waters welcome you in as the sun beats down.

In Formentera, all-inclusive hotels are not that common, so it pays to book early if you want this kind of holiday. Accommodation in Formentera is usually offered on a self-catering basis, or with breakfast included.

Booking in advance is essential if you want to secure your dream holiday on this small island. Use the TravelSupermarket search tool to compare prices on package holidays to Formentera.

Holidaymakers arrive on these shores between May and October to take advantage of long, sunny days with average temperatures above 20C. Those sizzling temperatures reach into the high-20s and low-30s between June and September, with July and August claiming the hottest weather and the largest number of visitors. You are unlikely to feel even a spit of rain on summer holidays in Formentera. 

Formentera Tango Festival; May-June: Grab your partner and pull them close for this feast of fast moving feet and passionate embraces. The tango festival, which features masterclasses and evening gatherings, travels all over the island in early summer.

Virgen del Carmen; July 16: The action on this festival day begins in Es Pujols, where a procession ends up in the sea, before traditional dancing and concerts take place in nearby La Savina.

Fiesta de Sant Jaume/Festa de Formentera; July 25: The biggest and best of the island’s annual fiestas, the feast day of Sant Jaume welcomes locals, family visitors from Ibiza (there are many family connections between the islands) and, of course, holidaymakers. Expect traditional dancing, singing and lots to eat and drink.

Relaxing: The beach scene of Formentera is, without a doubt, the main reason visitors flock here. Lay your towel on Playa de Ses Illetes, where water sports are available, or see the dunes and saltpans of Playa de Llevant. Playa Migjorn is the longest beach on the island and perfect for snorkelling adventures, while Playa de Tramuntana is secluded and quiet. These are just a few of the best, so find your own favourite during a Formentera holiday.

Active types: It’s a breeze to get around by bicycle on flat Formentera. Head inland to see the ancient stone circle of Ca Na Costa, stop for a coffee with the locals in San Francisco, and cool off within one of the many white-cube churches of the island. When you’ve seen the interior, find an isolated beach along the shore and enjoy a piece of paradise.

Shopping: Support local artisans at the twice-weekly market (between June and October) in Pilar de la Mola, where you can pick up handmade jewellery, clothing, art and trinkets.