Es Pujols

Es Pujols is the busiest resort village on Formentera, a small seaside community in the north of the island, a few kilometres from the ferry port of La Savina. The island is known for a quiet, relaxed way of life, but Es Pujols is where most of the shops, restaurants, bars and hotels are concentrated, so many visitors use it as a base in high season. It grew from a small fishing hamlet into a tourist centre, and while it has changed a great deal, it still keeps the low-rise, whitewashed look of the island, with few tall buildings.

The centre of the village is its main street, a lively promenade that runs along the shore and is lined with restaurants, ice-cream shops, bars, boutiques and stalls selling souvenirs, beachwear and handmade jewellery. In the evening it fills with strollers, and the terraces of the restaurants serve fresh fish, rice dishes and other Mediterranean food. There are livelier bars in the evening, though the nightlife is milder than that of neighbouring Ibiza, and many people prefer a long dinner and a stroll.

The beach of Es Pujols lies in front of the promenade. It is a sandy beach with shallow, calm water that stays warm and clear into autumn, and it is well suited to families with children. Sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented, and the beach is easy to reach on foot from hotels and apartments. Beyond the village, the coast opens into longer, quieter beaches reached by walking along the shore or by bike, and you can continue toward the beaches of the Ses Illetes peninsula in the north.

The village also makes a good base for exploring. Bicycle and scooter rental shops are close by, and flat roads and dedicated paths make cycling easy. The salt lagoons of the nature park lie close to the village, with flamingos and other birds in season, and the Formentera Salt Flats are only a short ride away. The ferry port at La Savina provides links to Ibiza.

It suits families, couples and people who want to have services nearby rather than isolation. In July and August, the village is lively and busy, and in spring and autumn it is calmer. Book accommodation and restaurants early for the summer season.