Cultural Formentera in 3 days

DAY 1

Today we suggest you explore the capital of Formentera, Sant Francesc Xavier. Immerse yourself in its tranquil atmosphere as you stroll through its picturesque streets and explore its urban architecture, constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Don't miss its square and parish church, which dates back to the 18th century, and around which the urban layout of the town began to take shape. Take a walk and visit the picturesque Tanca Vella chapel and the Molí d'en Mateu, one of the seven flour mills on the island. And to round off this morning full of history and culture, visit the Formentera Ethnography Museum to better understand how the culture and character of the people of Formentera is expressed.

After a break for lunch and a taste of the island's authentic gastronomy, we head to the north of the island to visit Ses Salines, which was declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in 2004 as a historical site. Admire the natural beauty of this unique environment while learning about the island's salt-making tradition and its historical and economic importance.

We also suggest a visit to the former prison colony of Formentera, a witness to Franco's post-war repression. It was a Republican prison camp built in 1939 and closed in 1942, which housed more than one thousand prisoners from the Balearic Islands and the mainland. The walls, the pavement of the barracks and three wells have been preserved to this day.

At the end of the day, take a moment to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the Salinas at sunset, before returning to your accommodation to rest.

DAY 2

On the second day of your cultural adventure in Formentera, you will discover the charming Pla de la Mola, an area of the island rich in history and natural beauty.

Start your day with a stop at km 9 of the road between La Savina and La Mola to admire the impressive propped fig tree of na Blanca d'en Mestre. This majestic fig tree, which has been propped up to encourage horizontal rather than vertical growth, has seen the tree grow with a "humanised" shape that allows animals to feed on its leaves and fruit as well as providing shade in summer. A work of rural engineering!

Continue on your way to the Roman Castellum of Can Blai, located nearby. This fortified building dates back to the 4th century AD and is a magnificent testament to the human presence on this small Mediterranean island.

Afterwards, head to the picturesque village of Es Caló de Sant Agustí and its peculiar wooden dry docks. The Pou des Verro is a magnificent example of an escar, which is the name given to this type of traditional dry dock. There are more than a dozen of them scattered all over the island, which indicates the importance of the connection with sea to harness its natural resources. Admire the sea views from this charming spot and soak up the calm and relaxed atmosphere of the area.

The cultural route around Formentera now takes you to Pilar de la Mola, one of the most picturesque villages on the island. Don't miss its white church, the second to be built on the island, dating from 1784 and the only one with a porch to protect the main entrance.

End your day with an unforgettable experience: enjoy a breathtaking sunset at the lighthouse of La Mola. Watch the sun slowly dip below the horizon as it illuminates the surrounding landscape in shades of gold and pink, creating a visual spectacle that will take your breath away.

On to day 3!

DAY 3

On the third day of your cultural trip to Formentera, you will discover one of the island's main population hubs: Sant Ferran de Ses Roques.

Start your day exploring the charming historic centre of Sant Ferran. This small village has a church, a square and a network of pedestrian streets that have been renovated in recent years.

Immerse yourself in its free and creative atmosphere. Sant Ferran de Ses Roques was a meeting point for hippies and bohemians in the seventies, with the legendary Fonda Pepe, which remains open today. As for places of interest, don't miss the church of Sant Ferran de Ses Roques, declared an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1996.

After exploring Sant Ferran, head towards the Cap de Barbaria lighthouse, one of the most emblematic images of Formentera. On the way, you can admire the traditional houses of the island and visit the tower of Cap de Barbaria, a defence tower built between 1762 and 1763 to prevent attacks by pirates and corsairs. You can also stop at one of the island's two wineries, the Cap de Barbaria winery, to taste the local wines and learn about Formentera's wine production. Visitors are required to book in advance.

End your day and your route taking in the most authentic and cultural side of Formentera at the lighthouse, where you will witness one of the most impressive sunsets of your life. Enjoy the panoramic views as the sun slowly sinks into the horizon, creating an unforgettable scene that will be etched in your memory forever.

Final tips: ballades and tonades and gastronomic events