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So weve put together this guide to help you pick the perfect island for your personality. Within the nature reserve is one of Ibiza Island's top beaches, the Playa de Ses Salines. Some have bar shacks, others fancy restaurants, most have nothing at all. Some rooms come with a rooftop Jacuzzi and an expansive balcony space. by ASP Alex Soto Photo // www.alexsoto.photo. Visitors can take leisurely strolls through the atmospheric cobblestone streets while admiring the sea views. What to doThe smallest of the Balearics, Formentera is only 11 miles long but has 43 miles of coastline. In Ibiza, youll find the beautiful Balearic beaches these islands are known for, including hidden spots among rock formations and larger stretches of sand known as party beaches as well. This moderately difficult hiking route affords breathtaking panoramic vistas of the dramatic coastline and Tramuntana Mountains. For a more relaxing vacation, the Island of Formentera is a less-touristy destination with an unspoiled coastline and pristine beaches. Floating in the Mediterranean isnt the only thing on our Balearic wishlist though. It can get really packed with visitors here in the summer, but the waters are beautifully clear and the sand is soft and clean. Like its (much smaller) counterpart, Menorcas miles of picturesque coastline are mostly unspoiled, with pristine beaches, shallow turquoise seas, and idyllic sheltered coves. lntia, which displays artifacts uncovered at archaeological excavations of the Pollentia site. The gorgeous Mediterranean landscape of the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana around Valldemossa inspires hikers and nature lovers. Is It Better To Lease Or Buy A Car In Summer 2022? Formentera provides the ideal setting for (re)connecting with your inner hippie, especially if that means relaxing au naturale on the beach and who knows who else youll see there! Plus, Ibiza is home to some of the best beaches in Balearic Islands that you wont want to miss. 2022 Forbes Media LLC. Spend your day on the beach at Es Pujos right by your hotel or take a short taxi ride to Platja Illetes, one of the most popular beaches on the island. While the southern coastline has five kilometers of stunning white sand beaches that rival the beaches found in more tropical locales, the northern coast plays host to Playa de Ses Illetes, which is known as one of the worlds dreamiest beaches. This well-equipped beach welcomes vacation-goers with a wide array of amenities: public restrooms, showers, and lounge chair and sun umbrella rentals. Visitors will enjoy strolling the narrow cobblestone lanes and admiring the old stone buildings with bright green shutters. Octopus, scorpion fish, lobsters and moray eels are just a few of the species you are likely to see. Tourists will enjoy taking a stroll along the harbor's promenade or stopping for an authentic seafood meal at one of the waterfront restaurants. Aerial overhead view of large amount of yachts anchored off the coast of Formentera Ibiza, with [+] turquoise Mediterranean Sea and ocean blue water. Near the Puerto Portals marina is a stretch of golden-sand beach. Built around 1300 BC, the Talat de Dalt is a prehistoric sanctuary that belonged to one of the most important Bronze Age settlements on the Island of Menorca. An incredible culinary experience awaits, just three kilometers outside of Puerto Portals, at Es Fum in Costa d'en Blanes. 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Spain, 17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Madrid, 20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Barcelona, 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Mallorca (Majorca), 10 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona, Visiting Montjuic, Barcelona: 11 Top Attractions, Tours & Hotels, Where to Stay in Barcelona: Best Areas & Hotels, 13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Tarragona, 17 Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Valencia, Where to Stay in Valencia: Best Areas & Hotels, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 20 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World. In a nutshell: Probably the best known of the Balearics, Ibiza has been at the centre of Europes clubbing scene for almost a generation now. On the other side of the island, swimsuits are optional at Aguas Blancas, which has a wilder feel. Lifeguards survey the beach during the high season. The majority (75 percent) of the natural park covers water and contains Posidonia, an endemic aquatic plant that only grows here. Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Where to eatIn the romantic garden at La Paloma, in the inland village of San Lorenzo, you eat a mix of Italian and Ibizan food, much of it organic that they grow themselves. Located within the Parc Natural de ses Salines, the beach is surrounded by sections of forest as well, giving it a natural feel. These four breathtaking beaches have something for everyone, from family-friendly spots to the perfect place to enjoy some water sports or just to grab some time in the sun. PwC Cloud and Digital Transformation BrandVoice, How To Earn Cash Rewards For Everyday Spending. Amenities include snack bars, cafs, and water sports gear rentals. Low-key nightlife and peaceful vibe also make it particularly popular with young families. This hotel is bathed in clean, sophisticated, white. Were Jos and Carley, the creators behind Home to Havana. Illetas beach is close to the ferry port and so splendid that a lot of people venture no further., Es Cal specialises in the traditional dishes of Formentera. All the islands are equally if not more enjoyable outside the peak summer months, so think about a walking or cycling holiday in Menorca or Formentera in the autumn, a shopping trip to Palma in Mallorca before Christmas, or a fitness break in Ibiza next spring. Further down the coast from the Platja dAlcudia and a bit further from the port, youll find Playa Muro, another conveniently located and beautiful beach. A lot of us have been dreaming of plunging into the Balearic Islands glittering seas over the last year, and with a bit of luck the fantasy may become a reality before too long. turquoise Mediterranean Sea and ocean blue water. So with prices on the rise and hotels filling up fast, its all the more important to choose which one is best for you. The best place to see the salt fields is in Las Salinas (near the Playa de Ses Salines) on Ibiza Island, where visitors are wowed by the mountains of naturally dried sea salt. We have to weigh up the benefits of promoting somewhere truly amazing, including considering the positive impact it can have on the local economy, with the danger of overloading the area with visitors. The family-run and family-friendly Agroturisme Biniatram (doubles from 95 B&B, and apartments from 105) is near Cala Morell beach in the north-west corner of the island. The Cam de Cavalls trail circumnavigates Menorcas 125-mile coastline. The Playa de s'Arenal Petit is a smaller beach with a shallow seabed, which makes the waters safe for children to splash around. If youre looking to make a day of beach-hopping these incredible Balearic Islands beaches, head from Cala Trebalger to nearby Cala Mitjana to round out the day! A favorite aspect of the Plaza de Espaa is its fresh fish market (the Mercat del Peix). To maintain a sustainable environment, the number of cars is limited and the use of electric vehicles is being encouraged. And like any individual, each island has its own distinctive foibles, features, and flavours. Afterwards, walk down to the tiny beach, as Graves used to do, for a delicious dip, before continuing to Sller for an ice-cream. Walk a little farther down passing the Juan y Andrea restaurant until you reach Playa de Levante and you may well be able to find a secluded spot of beach all to yourself! For water sports enthusiasts, paddle boats and kayaks are available for rent. Its easy to relax in Formentera, as the locals say, Its paradise here!. Heres your ultimate guide to some of the best Balearic Islands beaches, including must-visit beaches on each of the four major islands Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. No frills required? This quaint village has attracted artists and writers since the 1930s. When you arrive on Formentera, make sure you head to the north coast if youre looking for some of the best Balearic beaches. Just take your pick from the 32 green routes that score the landscape. If youre planning your own escape to the best beaches in Balearic Islands, you may wish to visit more than one of these beautiful islands. The only beach on Cala Portinatx with lifeguards, s'Arenal Gros is an ideal place for swimming, boating, and waterskiing. If youre looking for the easiest way to enjoy Menorcas beaches, make sure to book a day trip on a boat around the island. This glamorous seaside resort on the Bay of Palma (10 kilometers from Palma de Mallorca) appeals to a chic clientele who appreciate flashy cars, fancy yachts, fashionable dining, and designer boutiques. The other aspect of the park is the land (around 2,000 hectares) covered with salt flats, wetlands, sand dunes, beaches, and pine forests. This is the perfect place to head with your family, as the water is shallow and clear for little ones to paddle in, with white sand ideal for playing. Were here to share our top travel tips and destinations guides to help you feel at home in travel. Mahn is a laid-back town with a slow pace. Hostal Aigua Clara (doubles from 131, room only), also on Migjorn beach, has yoga classes on the sand and a great restaurant. The island is increasingly popular for family holidays too particularly multigenerational ones where the parents are doing yoga at dawn as gran and grandad are rolling back from a club. The museum's collection exhibits ancient jewelry, kitchen utensils, sculptures, and architectural elements. Dont forget to make a stop at the Mirador Es Colomer on the drive from Alcdia this incredible scenic overlook is itself worth the drive! Doubles at Hostal Rafalet, right by the sea in Es Cal from 70, room only. Due to its often shallow and calm beaches, its also a great option for families with smaller children. On the other side of the island, Migjorn stretches for more than three miles, down to the tiny Cal des Mort cove. Illetas beach is close to the ferry port and so splendid that a lot of people venture no further, but it is an easy stroll to the quieter Levante. Walking around Menorca: my lockdown project is never staying still, Original reporting and incisive analysis, direct from the Guardian every morning. The ultimate place for a happening seaside holiday is the beach lovers' paradise of Ibiza Island. Locally caught fish is combined with fresh produce from the surrounding farms, creating tantalizing dishes. If you fancy something different wander down to the beach at Es Pujos and dine at any of the boardwalk restaurants which offer beautiful ocean views. The Cala Portinatx bay is sheltered from the open sea by a rock barrier, protecting against tidal action and waves. In Ibiza town, Ryans La Marina (doubles from 72, room only) is a handy, basic base overlooking the harbour. The Prehistoric Site of Talat de Dalt (Menorca Island). The beach of Ses Salines caters to sun-worshipping visitors with restaurants, shops, and snack bars. Held every day of the week starting at 7am in the morning until the late afternoon, this bustling market includes stalls selling fruits, vegetables, cheese, bread, pastries, and specialty foods, as well as clothing. From oceanfront cafes and bars to the beautiful fig trees and all those white sandy beaches, Formentera truly is the prettiest little island in Spain. This is another perfect destination whether you have little ones in tow or just want to rejuvenate before heading out for the evening. As well as attracting the beautiful people sipping Mojitos amongst the gleaming white aesthetics of the Ibiza beach club, the likes of foam parties, drunken boat trips, and general debauchery are also common. The challenging, narrow, winding path rewards hikers with exceptional vistas from the hilltop hermitage, at 300 meters above the sea. In a nutshell: The smaller, more peaceful, and much more laid back of these twin island, Formentera boasts miles of unspoiled beaches with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Every evening, head to the west of the island to watch the sun go down, which should be experienced at least once swigging an overpriced beer in San Antonio, before you find your own favourite spot. On the south coast, bordering the Ses Salines wetlands, the famous Es Trenc has more than 2km of white sand, where the quieter stretches are popular with naturists. The climate is perfectly balmy, and the coastline features turquoise waters that appear tropical. Of course, we still want to lie on the beach, but we might also want to explore by bike, paddle around the coast in a kayak or reboot on a yoga retreat. On Ibiza Island, the Interpretation Center of Las Salinas in Sant Francesc de s'Estany (housed in the 18th-century Iglesia de Sant Francesc) presents exhibits about the park's flora and fauna. After sightseeing, tourists can wander the town and find a spot to relax. In fact, its the smallest of Spains Balearic islands and in my opinion its the prettiest. To understand why the beaches are so pristine, you have to immerse yourself in the transparent water to discover the rich marine life below the surface excellent visibility means you see a lot just with a mask and snorkel so you dont need to be able to dive. If you are looking for a beautiful beach break, Ibiza is a must-visit. Youll find a party if youre looking for it, but the beach is expansive, so you can also find a quiet spot as well. At the eastern end of Menorca Island, the capital city of Mahn (Ma) stands on a steep hillside above a large natural harbor. They fear that it will become too popular and be overrun with tourists. All Rights Reserved, This is a BETA experience. The breakfast buffet at Blanco hotel is really tasty and varied, as is their lunch and dinner menus but for special occasions head over to Five Flowers and up to their rooftop Japanese restaurant Kokoy. The hotel is a riot of color including the nightly illumination of the building which makes a pretty show to watch as you enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar. In a strategic location, the port is sheltered from wind and inclement weather. All Rights Reserved.Site Powered by Pix & Hue. Regular visitors love the laid-back, beachfront vibe at the Talaya apartments (studios from 160). The beach is also a great spot for enjoying water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, and paddle boating. Excellent dining options include Ritzi, a trendy restaurant with an outdoor terrace by the marina, and Cappuccino Grand Caf, which also has a dining patio with views of the marina. The Plaza de Espaa branches out to many streets lined with shops and restaurants. Can Forn (Carrer Major 39; 0034 971 3281555) in Sant Ferran specialises in the traditional dishes of Formentera, such as ensalada pagesa, a chunky salad with the dried fish you see hanging up around the island, and squid cooked with sobrasada sausage. What to doStart with La Seu, Palmas cathedral by the sea, where Miquel Barcels contemporary chapel adds to the magnificence of the gothic architecture. The Island of Mallorca offers interesting cultural attractions and gorgeous beaches. The site is open daily from April through October and charges a small admission fee. The other Balearic islands include Ibiza, Mallorca (Majorca) and Menorca. Lack of airport also helps maintain a remote vibe, while its reputation for seclusion has attracted its fair share of A-listers. Top Destinations for Beach Lovers: Several of Spain's top beaches are found on the Balearic Islands, including Es Pujols Beach on the Island of Formentera and the beach at Cala Mesquida on the Island of Mallorca. At the center of Mahn, is the Plaza de Espaa, a spacious town square, which can be reached via a pedestrian staircase from the port. Quite a few have their restaurants in the boutique and rural hotels that have sprung up all over the island, making gastronomic breaks a good idea all year round. On Tuesdays and Sundays (8am to 1:30pm), the colorful Alcdia Market brings together vendors of fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms, as well as clothes, jewelry, and other products. If the fashionable Cala Conta is too crowded, just carry on down the coast and stop wherever takes your fancy maybe Cala Codolar, a tiny, pebbly cove sheltered by cliffs where the cobalt sea is like a pool. This area is known for its superb cuisine. Alcdia has many inviting restaurants and cafs with pleasant outdoor terraces. For a luxurious stay, choose the beautiful five star oasis of Five Flowers Hotel Spa Formentera near Es Pujols beach. Best beachesThe glistening sands are soft and white and boardwalks lconnect the beaches. With its enviable position facing west over the sea and nearby rocky formations, it makes for a dramatic sight, and some of the best sunsets on the island. Here you can explore caves and go cliff jumping if youre feeling adventurous. You can access the island via a ferry ride from Ibiza. Where to eatMichelin-starred British chef Marc Fosh uses the best Balearic produce to create sublime dishes at his Palma restaurant, where the set lunch is a real bargain. Just like Cala Trebalger, at Cala Mitjana youll have to navigate a path to get to the beach, though its a more relaxed 20-minute walk through the trees from the car park. Drawing a stylish international crowd, Puerto Portals has the glitzy feel of Monte Carlo in Monaco. Best beachesIndigo, emerald, cornflower, cyan you could spend a lot of time musing on the shades of the sea in Menorca. Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera dont just offer dazzling beaches, theyre also a paradise for walkers, cyclists and divers. Easily accessible and charming, this beach is one of Mallorcas best. On the western edge of the beach, youll even find stretches of pink sand. Just a few steps away from the Plaza de Espaa is the Iglesia del Carmen, a Carmelite church with an adjoining cloister. You can rent covered day beds and find food nearby from stalls and restaurants, all while taking in the incredible scenery. Try it at Caf Balear in Ciutadella or Es Cranc in Fornells. Ferry boats sail from Cala Portinatx to the sandy beach of Puerto de San Miguel and the trendy resort of San Antonio, which has many cafs and beach clubs with a legendary nightlife scene. Visitors come from across Spain, Germany and Italy and to a lesser extent from the United Kingdom, so although English is widely spoken, youll hear it less than in other busier tourist areas. Menorca is also much beloved for having some of the best Balearic beaches and has arguably the perfect balance of secluded spots and lively beaches to suit most travelers. The sand at this iconic beach is pure white, and with views across the turquoise waters towards Formentera, its a truly stunning beach destination. These boat tours take you to the islands best beaches are quite inexpensive for a full day of travel in style, and include Spanish cuisine like paella, and the opportunities to swim and snorkel throughout the day. In the centre of Mahn, the chic new Cristine Bedfor Guest House (doubles from 188 B&B) has the unmistakable stamp of top designer Lorenzo Castillo. Located just south of the town of Ibiza, this Balearic beach is buzzing with activity and is one of the most easily accessible on the island. These cruises are surprisingly affordable and popular! Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. If you stay in or around the pretty town of Art in the east, you can drive to a string of idyllic beaches such as Cala Torta, or the little resort of Canyamel if you want places to eat too. Please try again. During the summer, the Carthusian Monastery hosts the Chopin Festival, which invites high-caliber pianists to perform works by Chopin, as well as other classical music pieces. As the largest of its sisters, Mallorca perhaps offers the biggest draw to the Balearic Islands. Along the way are the Talayotic burial chambers and temples, which date back to at least 2,000BC. One of Ibizas largest and most well-known beaches is Platja de Ses Salines also known as Las Salinas. Aigues Blanques, or Aguas Blancas, beach, Ibiza. Crystal-clear waters lap up against the expansive swath of fine powdery sand. Theres also a resort for every taste, from the laid-back, family-friendly Pollensa to the infamous wild partying of Magaluf. Much less visited than its neighboring Mallorca, Menorca is the go-to Balearic Island destination for those looking to escape, relax, and enjoy a beautiful retreat in nature. The journey takes you from Ibiza Townto La Savina and takes between thirty minutes to an hour. But this island is not just about throwing shapes (or throwing up) the isle has attracted a steady stream of artists, writers, and like-minded bohemians for almost a century. There are sunbeds available, and you can sample some delicious seafood as you relax. Visiting the great poet and writers house is a magical, intimate experience. There are also some facilities available for rinsing off, such as showers and places to change, as well as public restrooms. On any of the other Balearic Islands, this jewel would be overrun with visitors, but on Formenteras most famous beach youll still find space to relax and unwind. This rare prehistoric site is five kilometers west of Mahn in a rural landscape of stunning beauty. The Welcome Center of Ses Salines Natural Park is located in Can Marroig on Formentera Island.