Discover Formentera on foot in 4 days

Day 1: Sant Francesc Xavier - La Mola

Your first day begins in Sant Francesc Xavier, following Route 15, one of the longest greenways on Formentera: you will cover approximately 10 kilometres and it will take you about three hours to walk it. However, this is an easy route, except for the section of the Camí de Sa Pujada, the gradient of which will test your endurance. 

This route starts on an old path towards La Mola, parallel to the main road. The first stretches are asphalted and take you through a typical rural landscape of the island: stone walls, grazing cattle and the famous propped fig trees. These large fig trees are an example of the adaptation of local agriculture, as their branches are supported by wooden planks to provide shade for livestock and withstand the strong winds of Formentera.

An interesting stop along the way is the Blanca d'en Mestre, a monumental fig tree whose crown extends in a spiral, supported by a complex system of props. This curious technique not only protects the tree, but also facilitates the harvesting of the figs and creates a shady area perfect for a short break.

Continuing along the road, before reaching Es Caló, you come across the ruins of the Roman castellum of Can Blai, an ancient fortification that recalls the Romans' passage through the island. This historic site is an ideal place to stop for a short break and explore, enjoying the view and the peaceful atmosphere.

The next stop is the charming fishing village of Es Caló de Sant Agustí. There, time seems to have stood still. Its natural harbour and local restaurants offer an authentic experience, where it is possible to taste traditional dishes while contemplating the sea. It is the perfect place to take a break and soak up the seaside atmosphere of the area.

After Es Caló, the route continues to the Sa Pujada path, an old stone path that climbs up to El Pilar de La Mola. The ascent offers impressive views of the coast, the sea and the rugged landscape of Formentera. The climb is gradual, but the views are worth the effort.

When you arrive at La Mola, the last stop of the day, you are greeted by a calm and bohemian atmosphere. Don't miss the La Mola lighthouse and the craft market, where you can finish the day with a relaxing sunset and spectacular views of the Mediterranean.

This first day provides an excellent introduction to Formentera: culture, history and nature combined in a route that will take you to some of the most authentic and beautiful corners of the island.

Day 2: Circular route along the Pla de La Mola

The second day of your walking tour of Formentera takes you through the vast plain of La Mola, a unique landscape, peaceful and so diverse that many call it "an island within an island". 

This circular route is ideal for those who like to savour every landscape, every scent and take their time to explore every corner. However, it is also suitable for cycling. 

With its more than 12 kilometres, this is the longest route of the 32 greenways of Formentera and will take you between two and three hours to walk it, depending on the breaks. One of the most striking aspects of this route is its scenic diversity: the route takes you through fields, vineyards, wooded areas and historic stretches that have never been modified, which enhances the feeling of authenticity and connection with the island's past. 

From the cliffs of La Mola, the views of the Mediterranean are breathtaking, with a horizon that is lost in the blue of the sea, offering a wonderful atmosphere of peace, ideal for nature lovers.

During the tour you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most emblematic places in the area, the lighthouse of La Mola, which rises majestically above the cliffs. This is an excellent spot to stop and enjoy the views while breathing in the sea breeze. 

This second day offers an immersive experience in the rural essence of Formentera, combining nature, history and culture. It is a route where you can completely disconnect and feel the true peace that characterises this small Balearic island.

Day 3: Es Cap - Es Garroveret

The third day of your Formentera route will take you through quiet, rural landscapes, from Can Parra to the iconic lighthouse of Es Garroveret. This 9-kilometre walk runs parallel to the road, taking you into one of the most peaceful areas of the island. Can Parra is a reflection of the more rural Formentera, with its typical stone houses, dry stone walls and small grazing herds. When you reach the halfway point, take the old road to Es Cap, a little-travelled road that invites you to completely disconnect from modern tourism.

Continuing southwards, the route takes you close to the prehistoric site of Es Cap de Barbaria, an important Bronze Age archaeological site. This site, which was densely inhabited over 3,000 years ago, retains ancient, signposted structures that you can visit as you go along. The remains of Cap de Barbaria II, a complex structure made up of several rooms, stand out there, together with the simpler but equally interesting Cap de Barbaria I and III.

Finally, the route ends at the imposing lighthouse of Es Garroveret, on the south-westernmost point of the island. From this point, the views of the sea and the cliffs are spectacular, closing the stage with a real visual treat and the sensation of being on the edge of the known world.

Day 4: Punta de la Gavina - Saona Cove

The fourth and last day of this adventure around Formentera will take you from Punta de la Gavina to the beautiful Cala Saona, along part of the north-west coast. This route is beautiful and easy, and you will cover a total of about 10 kilometres, which will take you between two and three hours to walk.  

It starts at the Can Marroig Interpretation Centre, where the landscape changes drastically as it moves towards a rocky desert terrain. This site was formerly a limestone quarry, known as marés, which was used in traditional construction on the island.

Following the rugged coastline, with few opportunities to go down to the sea, you will enjoy the breathtaking views towards the islets of Es Vedrà and Es Vedranell, and nearby Ibiza. The route takes you to the historic La Gavina Tower, an 18th-century construction that formed part of Formentera's defensive system. From here, the views of the horizon are a real treat.

Afterwards, return by the same route to La Savina to connect with Cala Saona. You will pass through the picturesque area of Porto-salè, where you will border the Estany des Peix, a lagoon with calm waters, ideal for water sports. Following the route, you will enter a rural setting, with fields and typical houses surrounded by dry stone walls.

The arrival at Cala Saona will be unforgettable. This natural bay offers a spectacular contrast between the reddish rock and the turquoise blue of the sea. One recommendation is to stay and enjoy the sunset, which on clear days allows you to see as far as the Iberian peninsula. An unbeatable finishing touch to culminate your hiking tour of Formentera!