Formentera Off the Beaten Path: Top Scenic Hikes

Formentera, the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and laid-back vibe. While the island is famous for its stunning coastlines, it also offers a wealth of hiking opportunities that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty and tranquil landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking to discover the island’s rugged terrain or someone seeking a leisurely stroll along picturesque coastal paths, Formentera’s trails provide the perfect escape into nature. Each hike reveals a different side of this charming island, from its serene beaches to its rugged cliffs and lush countryside.

Let me guide you through some of the best hiking trails on Formentera. These trails are ranked by difficulty, so whether you’re up for a challenging trek or a relaxing walk, there’s something here for everyone.

1. The Green Route 25: From Es Caló to La Mola Lighthouse

One of the most iconic hikes on Formentera, the Green Route 25, takes you from the picturesque village of Es Caló up to the island’s highest point, La Mola Lighthouse. This 6-mile round-trip hike is a must for anyone wanting to experience the island’s stunning landscapes. The trail begins at Es Caló, a charming fishing village known for its crystal-clear waters and traditional whitewashed houses. From there, the path winds up through pine forests and along rugged cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The hike culminates at La Mola Lighthouse, perched atop a dramatic cliff and offering panoramic views of the island and the endless horizon beyond.

Difficulty: ★★★★☆

Highlights:

• Stunning Coastal Views: Enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean as you hike along the cliffs.
• La Mola Lighthouse: Reach the island’s highest point and take in the sweeping vistas from this iconic landmark.
• Es Caló Village: Start your hike in one of Formentera’s most picturesque villages, known for its traditional charm.

Best Time to Hike:Spring and autumn are ideal, with cooler temperatures and clear skies making for comfortable hiking conditions.

Tips:

• Wear Sturdy Shoes: The rocky terrain can be challenging, so good hiking shoes are essential.
• Bring Water: The trail can be exposed, so staying hydrated is crucial.
• Visit the Market: If you’re hiking on a Wednesday or Sunday, check out the La Mola Artisan Market after your trek.

2. The Green Route 32: Sant Francesc to Cala Saona

The Green Route 32 is a relatively easy but rewarding hike that takes you from the island’s capital, Sant Francesc Xavier, to the stunning beach of Cala Saona. This 3-mile one-way trail is perfect for those looking to explore Formentera’s countryside and coastal beauty. The hike begins in the charming town of Sant Francesc, known for its quaint whitewashed buildings and relaxed atmosphere. From there, the trail leads you through peaceful fields dotted with fig and almond trees before reaching Cala Saona, one of Formentera’s most beautiful beaches. With its clear turquoise waters and red-hued cliffs, Cala Saona is a perfect spot to relax after your hike, take a refreshing swim, or enjoy a picnic while soaking up the serene surroundings.

Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆

Highlights:

• Charming Town: Start your hike in Sant Francesc Xavier, a picturesque town with a laid-back vibe.
• Countryside Stroll: Walk through Formentera’s tranquil countryside, with fields of fig and almond trees.
• Cala Saona Beach: End your hike at one of the island’s most stunning beaches, known for its clear waters and dramatic cliffs.

Best Time to Hike:Spring and early summer are ideal, offering mild weather and blooming landscapes.

Tips:

• Pack a Picnic: Cala Saona is a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal by the sea.
• Bring Snorkel Gear: The clear waters at Cala Saona are perfect for snorkeling and exploring marine life.
• Wear Sun Protection: The trail is relatively open, so don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

3. The Green Route 5: La Savina to Es Pujols

For a leisurely coastal walk with beautiful sea views, the Green Route 5 is an excellent choice. This 4-mile trail starts at La Savina, the island’s main port, and follows the coast to the lively resort town of Es Pujols. The trail is easy and mostly flat, making it accessible to all levels of hikers. As you walk, you’ll pass by the stunning beaches of Ses Illetes and Levante, known for their powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. These beaches are often ranked among the best in the world, so be sure to take a break and enjoy a swim or simply relax on the sand. The hike ends in Es Pujols, a vibrant town with plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can unwind after your walk.

Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆

Highlights:

• Coastal Scenery: Walk along some of Formentera’s most beautiful beaches, with stunning views of the turquoise sea.
• World-Class Beaches: Take a dip at Ses Illetes and Levante, two of the most famous beaches in the Mediterranean.
• Vibrant Es Pujols: End your hike in the lively town of Es Pujols, known for its dining and nightlife.

Best Time to Hike:Spring and early autumn, when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the beaches are less crowded.

Tips:

• Wear Comfortable Sandals: The trail is easy, and you’ll likely want to take your shoes off for a beach walk.
• Bring a Beach Towel: You’ll want to spend time on the beaches, so come prepared to relax.
• Explore Es Pujols: Take time to enjoy the shops, restaurants, and nightlife in Es Pujols after your hike.

4. The Green Route 2: La Savina to Cap de Barbaria

The Green Route 2 is one of Formentera’s most iconic hikes, taking you from the port of La Savina to the dramatic Cap de Barbaria lighthouse. This 6.5-mile trail offers a blend of coastal and inland scenery, showcasing the island’s diverse landscapes. The hike begins at La Savina and follows a coastal path through the salt flats of Estany des Peix, where you can spot flamingos and other birdlife. As you continue, the trail takes you inland through arid landscapes dotted with juniper trees and traditional dry stone walls. The highlight of the hike is reaching Cap de Barbaria, a lighthouse perched on a cliff at the island’s southernmost point. The views from the lighthouse are breathtaking, offering a sweeping panorama of the Mediterranean and the wild, rugged coastline.

Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

Highlights:

• Salt Flats: Walk through the scenic salt flats of Estany des Peix, a haven for birdwatching.
• Rugged Landscapes: Experience Formentera’s arid interior, with its unique flora and traditional dry stone walls.
• Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse: Reach the island’s southernmost point and take in the dramatic cliffside views.

Best Time to Hike:Spring and autumn, with cooler temperatures making the long hike more comfortable.

Tips:

• Start Early: The trail is long and can be hot, so begin your hike in the morning.
• Bring Binoculars: The salt flats are home to a variety of bird species, making binoculars a great addition.
• Pack a Camera: The views from Cap de Barbaria are iconic, so don’t forget to capture the moment.

5. The Green Route 6: Es Cap to Es Torrent de s’Alga

For a hike that showcases Formentera’s unspoiled natural beauty, the Green Route 6 from Es Cap to Es Torrent de s’Alga is a must. This 5-mile round-trip trail takes you through some of the island’s most remote and untouched landscapes. The hike starts at Es Cap, a quiet area known for its rugged cliffs and panoramic sea views. The trail follows the coastline, offering stunning views of the sea and the rocky shoreline below. As you continue, the trail takes you through pine forests and past hidden coves, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the solitude. The hike ends at Es Torrent de s’Alga, a secluded bay with crystal-clear waters and a pebble beach. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings before heading back.

Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

Highlights:

• Remote Landscapes: Hike through Formentera’s most unspoiled areas, with rugged cliffs and dense pine forests.
• Hidden Coves: Discover secluded coves and bays along the trail, perfect for a quiet break.
• Es Torrent de s’Alga: End your hike at a peaceful bay with clear waters and a pebble beach.

Best Time to Hike:Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the trails are less crowded.

Tips:

• Wear Sturdy Footwear: The rocky and uneven terrain requires good hiking shoes.
• Bring Snacks: There are no facilities along the trail, so pack enough food and water for the day.
• Stay for the Sunset: Es Cap is one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset, so plan your hike accordingly.

6. The Green Route 7: Pilar de la Mola to Es Caló

For a hike that combines stunning coastal views with cultural heritage, the Green Route 7 is a must. This 5-mile trail takes you from the charming village of Pilar de la Mola down to the picturesque fishing village of Es Caló. The hike begins at Pilar de la Mola, home to the island’s famous artisan market and the iconic La Mola Lighthouse. As you descend towards the coast, you’ll pass through lush pine forests and terraces lined with ancient stone walls. The trail offers sweeping views of the Mediterranean as it winds its way down to Es Caló, where you can relax by the clear waters or enjoy a meal at one of the local seafood restaurants.

Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

Highlights:

• La Mola Lighthouse: Start your hike at one of Formentera’s most iconic landmarks, with panoramic views of the sea.
• Cultural Heritage: Walk through terraced landscapes and stone walls that tell the story of the island’s agricultural past.
• Es Caló Village: End your hike in a traditional fishing village, known for its charm and excellent seafood.

Best Time to Hike:Spring and autumn are ideal, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.

Tips:

• Visit the Market: If you’re hiking on a Wednesday or Sunday, stop by the La Mola Artisan Market before starting your trek.
• Wear Good Shoes: The trail includes some steep sections, so sturdy footwear is essential.
• Explore Es Caló: Take time to wander the village, enjoy a meal, or swim in the crystal-clear waters.

7. The Green Route 1: La Savina to Es Trucadors

The Green Route 1 is a unique hike that takes you along Formentera’s narrow strip of land between the famous beaches of Ses Illetes and Levante. This 4-mile round-trip hike starts at La Savina, the island’s main port, and leads you to the northernmost point of Formentera, Es Trucadors. The trail is relatively flat and easy, making it accessible to all levels of hikers. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by water on both sides, with the calm waters of Ses Illetes on one side and the wilder waves of Levante on the other. The hike offers stunning views of the turquoise sea, and at the end, you’ll reach Es Trucadors, a narrow spit of sand that feels like the edge of the world.

Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆

Highlights:

• Dual Beach Experience: Walk between two of Formentera’s most famous beaches, each with its own unique charm.
• Es Trucadors: Reach the northern tip of the island, where the land narrows to a sandy spit surrounded by water.
• Crystal-Clear Waters: Enjoy views of the turquoise sea on both sides of the trail.

Best Time to Hike:Spring and early autumn, when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the beaches are less crowded.

Tips:

• Bring a Beach Towel: You’ll want to stop and enjoy the beaches along the way, so come prepared to relax.
• Wear Sunscreen: The trail is exposed, so protect yourself from the sun.
• Pack a Picnic: Es Trucadors is a perfect spot for a peaceful beachside meal.

8. The Green Route 10: Sant Ferran to Cala en Baster

The Green Route 10 offers a blend of countryside charm and coastal beauty, taking you from the inland village of Sant Ferran to the rocky beach of Cala en Baster. This 3-mile hike starts in the heart of the island at Sant Ferran, a village known for its bohemian atmosphere and vibrant arts scene. The trail then leads you through the Formentera countryside, with fields of wildflowers and stone walls lining the path. As you approach the coast, the landscape becomes more rugged, culminating in the dramatic cliffs and rocky shoreline of Cala en Baster. This secluded beach is perfect for those seeking solitude and a unique spot to explore the natural beauty of the island.

Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆

Highlights:

• Sant Ferran Village: Begin your hike in a village with a rich cultural heritage and artistic flair.
• Rural Scenery: Walk through Formentera’s peaceful countryside, with its characteristic dry stone walls and open fields.
• Cala en Baster: End your hike at a rugged, rocky beach, known for its striking cliffs and clear waters.

Best Time to Hike:Spring and autumn are best, offering mild weather and blooming landscapes.

Tips:

• Explore Sant Ferran: Before or after your hike, take time to enjoy the village’s shops, cafes, and galleries.
• Wear Sturdy Shoes: The trail becomes rocky as you approach Cala en Baster, so good footwear is recommended.
• Bring a Camera: The dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline offer plenty of photo opportunities.

Formentera with trails that showcase the island’s diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to serene beaches and charming villages. Whether you're looking for a challenging trek or a peaceful walk, the island’s hiking routes provide an opportunity to connect with nature and discover the true beauty of this Mediterranean jewel.