“No camping” in the smallest of the Balearic Islands. The reason is simple: to protect the environment. Almost a paradox considering that open-air tourism is among the most virtuous and least impactful ways to stay. Nevertheless, camping is not allowed in Formentera because of the small size of the island, and the stringent rules that protect environmental sustainability.
In fact, on the island you will not find camping facilities proper but only bungalow proposals, operated by licensed facilities. Free camping is strictly forbidden throughout the island, as is sleeping in any type of vehicle and staying overnight on the beach and in wooded areas. The use of caravans and campers is not allowed since Formentera has no equipped areas; even simple transit in the summer season is restricted and fined.
There are also limits on the movement of all cars during the summer months due to the large influx of tourists tripling the population with a considerable environmental impact. As reported by Formentera.eco: ” The Formentera Council has asked the Balearic Islands government to introduce innovative legislation at the national level to allow the island’s administration to restrict vehicle entry and regulate traffic permits on local roads during the summer months. This action is intended to preserve the environmental balance and provide visitors and residents with the tranquility they expect to find. “
For those who want to spend a vacation on the island and stay in an immersive setting, in close contact with nature, the suggestion is to book in a bungalow facility. Alternatively, you can stay in nearby Ibiza. The distance between the two islands is only 2 nautical miles (3 km), and it is possible to ferry nimbly from the port of Ibiza and other piers on the island. In the high season there are numerous daily runs by different companies(Balearia, Trasmapi, Formentera Express, Formentera Lines, AcquaBus , etc.). Tourists renting cars in Ibiza are not allowed to transport the car to Formentera. The best solution is to rent a vehicle locally.
For those who wish to stay in a camping facility in Ibiza, here you can find all the useful directions.
Whether it is a day or a whole vacation, Formentera is a wonderful island
The limits imposed by the Balearic Islands government to safeguard the territory of Formentera become perfectly understandable. When you land on this small island where nature still reigns unspoiled, you realize how much of a natural paradise it is with dream beaches. It is also renowned for being a dimension of peace and tranquility, where the rhythms are slow and relaxed, perfect for a rejuvenating vacation. Formentera is perfect for couples, groups of friends and especially for families with young children because of the soft, white beaches like talcum powder and the sea that slopes gently like a natural pool of crystal clear water.
The smallest of the Balearic Islands is distinguished by restrained mundanity, small villages, old windmills and enchanting protected nature areas, such as the Peninsula del Trucador, the thin tongue of sand in the north of the island that belongs to the Parque Natural de ses Salines, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its incredible ecological value. Here are two of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean: to the west Platja Illetes, and to the east Platja Llevant. A short distance away, also beautiful are the shores of Sa Roqueta and of Es Pujols.
Northeast of the island, Playa of Es Caló is an irresistible attraction for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, so Ses Plagetes, while along the southern coast sweeps a long beach of fine, white sand, Platja de Migjorn.
This coastline counts a good 6 kilometers, and in the eastern area is the very popular Es Arenals.
Not to be missed for an unforgettable glimpse of the Mediterranean Sea, Far de la Mola, the lighthouse that camps the high promontory to the east of Formentera, Cap de Barbaria, the highest point on the island where high cliffs plunge into the blue.
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