Formentera Hotel

Any fan of good times set against a backdrop of sun, sand and sea will be well aware of the Balearic Islands off the coast of northern Spain. Clubbers of the world will congregate in Ibiza while those looking to experience some daytime culture and history to counter balance the night time activities will likely spend some time in Majorca and Minorca. These three main islands certainly know what makes a memorable Spanish holiday but there is a further island, perhaps less well known internationally, but which offers the kind of beaches and more laid back leisure pursuits that its larger neighbors can only dream of.

There is just 4 miles of calm blue sea between Ibiza and Formentera, providing the main route of access by ferry from the Estacion Maritime in Ibiza Town. Direct summer crossings are also possible from the Spanish mainland, at Denia, for the convenience of hotel guests, but traveling via Ibiza sets the scene perfectly for exploring the differences and many similarities between these two so called 'Pine Islands'. A key similarity is obvious from this historic label, that of the characteristic pine tree landscapes on both islands and both have a certain ambiance and character with somewhat hippie origins. The differences are very much that of scale, with Ibiza taking on whole new aspects of hedonism while Formentera still retains its appeal and allure for the hippie in all of us.

That ethos is evident throughout the island, from the hippie-style beach bars and cafes to the nude sunbathing at all but the main town beach. This is not exhibitionism however, and not compulsory, but a desire for the natural and it is the natural features of the island which hold the key to its enduring and increasing popularity. There is always a pay off between unspoiled beauty and mass market tourism but while the island can get busy during the summer months there are no high rise developments here and guests should expect their hotel to be similarly intimate and wholly at one with the environment.

Environmental protection and maintenance is a big deal on the island with much of it managed as a national park. The sand dunes are of particular importance in this respect and can be enjoyed from the boardwalks which help minimize erosion and allow the natural vegetation to flourish. The island is relatively flat and a great size for exploring on bicycle, a mode of transport which holds true to the environmental concerns. Car hire is available at the port too and mopeds are a popular way to get around, especially for beach hopping. No matter how busy it gets there is always a wonderful stretch of quiet unspoiled beach waiting to be discovered.

The beaches, unsurprisingly, dominate leisure time on the island. They are composed of beautiful white sand reminiscent of those in the Caribbean and they play host to all manner of beach life activities, from the beach bars to the water sports. The waters are crystal clear, perfect for diving and snorkeling and there is lagoon swimming at Estany de Peix, the fish lagoon. Dining and enjoying drinks on the beach form the main cultural experiences too and there are some great little restaurants which offer great value for money. Fish and seafood dishes dominate the menus as well as Catalonia inspired grilled meat and stews.

There is plenty of hotel variety but visitors should not expect the grand luxury resort style developments found in other beach holiday destinations. There are three and four star hotels which will have all the features such as swimming pools and family-oriented activities, but with the beach and water sports only ever a hop and a skip away, a huge range of hotel leisure and recreation features are unnecessary and most hotels will provide a wealth of visitor information and services on the local activities and attractions. What one of the top hotels will offer is additional in-room features such as climate control and perhaps balconies with wonderful views.

Often it is the combination of comfort and style which defines the local hotels and in this respect they very much adopt a boutique philosophy. These are intimate and charming independent properties where a warm and friendly ambiance goes a long way to making any stay a success and they are the best places in which to get a real feel for the culture and character of the island.

There is another type of hotel, one which conforms to the Agriturismo ideals popular throughout the Balearics and elsewhere. These are former farm properties and they add a certain rustic appeal which blends seamlessly into the environment. In a place as environmentally conscious as Formentera, these types of hotel provide a natural choice for those who admire and respect the the ongoing commitment to ensuring the island remains unspoiled, irrespective of its large tourist appeal.

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1.2435
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0.0099

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