Besides distinctive beaches and its relaxed holiday vibes, the Balearic Island of Formentera offers a year-round calendar of not-to-miss events and local festivals that can be enjoyed by visitors after the peak season when the summer crowds have gone.
DANCE TO THE RHYTHM OF FORMENTERA
While the island is known for its peaceful nature, Formentera has an array of lively cultural sites and events that reflect its artistic vibe. In addition to multiple craft markets and art workshops, many towns of Formentera offer authentic local events with live music throughout the summer.
Set to take place in September in different locations across the island, Formentera Jazz Festival will see a range of musicians from emerging acts to well-established artists performing all kinds of traditional and contemporary jazz with the backdrop of the spectacular Balearic sunsets.
When: 23-26 September 2021
More information: www.formenterajazzfestival.info
RUN, SWIM AND CYCLE ON THE PARADISE ISLAND
Formentera’s natural landscape makes it a perfect destination for outdoor activities, such as cycling or running. Despite its relatively small size, the island is home to 32 signposted green routes which collectively offer more than 60 miles of cycling and hiking trails, suitable for different fitness levels.
For the most active visitors, Formentera will host the Illa de Formentera Triathlon in October, where participants will be able to choose between the Sprint and Olympic categories and test out their swimming, cycling and running skills in the spectacular Mediterranean setting. Formentera Half Marathon, held only a week later, is another, slightly less challenging option for those seeking an active break on the island.
When: 2 October 2021 (Formentera Triathlon) / 9 October (Formentera Half Marathon)
More information: www.unisportconsulting.com/triatlonformentera / unisportconsulting.com/marato-formentera/en
EAT YOUR WAY AROUND THE ISLAND
Thanks to a great variety of fresh seafood, organic produce and sustainable agriculture that are deeply rooted in the island’s traditions, Formentera has long been recognised for its gastronomic credentials and has even obtained the ‘Arca del gusto’ (translated as ‘Ark of Taste’) status, granted by the International Slow Food Organisation. Some of the island’s staple products include dried slated fish (peix sec), locally produced honey (es morer) and a range of traditional wines and liquors.
Every year, during the first two weeks of May and October, Formentera holds its Gastronomic Weekends when the island’s best restaurants offer special menus at a set price. In addition to affordable prices, the event provides visitors to Formentera with a unique opportunity to taste traditional dishes with a modern twist.
When: 2-3 & 9-10 October 2021
More information: www.formentera.es/en/gastronomic-weekends-october
NOURISH YOURSELF INSIDE AND OUT WITH A YOGA SESSION
The lack of an airport or large-scale holiday accommodation on Formentera works in its favour and ensures that Formentera remains a tranquil and slow-motion kind of place all year round. The combination of tranquillity and nature make Formentera a top spot for those seeking a relaxing yoga session or meditation retreat.
With wellness deeply rooted in its ethos, The Gecko Hotel & Beach Club offers a free 90-minute class for guests every morning. For those seeking a stronger body-mind connection, the hotel also offers an extensive programme of yoga retreats with professionally trained teachers.
When: 3-8 & 20-24 October 2021
More information: www.geckobeachclub.com/en/yoga-and-wellness/yoga-retreats
SWIM IN THE DAZZLINGLY CRYSTAL CLEAR MEDITERRANEAN WATERS
Thanks to crystal-clear waters and long stretches of sandy beaches, backed by dunes and pine trees, swimming around Formentera is a one-of-a-kind experience. The clarity of the Balearic waters is largely due to the Posidonia Oceanica, a unique sea grass that grows on the sea floor surrounding the island.
For solid, intensive swimming sessions in a beautiful and relaxed setting, SwimQuest offers a week-long Total Immersion Technique programme with sessions led by James Ewart, a technique-focussed swim coach, water enthusiast and video analysis expert. Highlights of the trip include a stay in the RocaBella hotel, spectacular sea views and the tranquil town of Pujols.
When: 4-8 & 9-13 October 2021
More information: www.swimquest.uk.com/james-ewart
HOW TO GET TO FORMENTERA: Regular flights from the UK to Ibiza Airport by easyJet, Ryanair, British Airways and Jet2 take approximately two hours. The distance between the two islands is short and the fastest Ibiza-Formentera ferry takes 25 min.
