Pitiusan Islands Luxury Yachting Guide

The Pitiusan Islands may hold a party-paradise reputation in the minds of most who conjure up images of these Spanish gems, but the duo of Ibiza and Formentera are more than meets the eye. Beyond the boisterous clubs and glitzy bars lies a heart of quiet escape and proud traditions sure to impress even the most peace-loving traveller.

Ibiza and its sister island Formentera are harsh rocky isles teeming with abundant wildlife and a rich history. Separated by the small Es freus strait, these islands have been inhabited since 1600BC and are protected sanctuaries for wildlife not seen on any other island, including an endangered species of lizard known as the Sargantana. Ibiza and Formentera are distinct, unique experiences and neither should be cast aside, as they both provide a haven for naturalists and pleasure-seekers alike.

Ibiza
Ibiza is home to a harsh landscape and little rainfall; with over half the island covered in thick woods, the rural northeast is an unexpected and unspoiled idyll that few know to explore. It's rugged coastline is dotted with sandy beaches, most of which are intensely built up, but this World-Heritage site is a dichotomy of rich marine life and intensive tourism.

Rest & Relaxation
Quiet beaches and coastal walking trails seem at odds with the popular perception of Ibiza as the mad epicenter of the European rave scene. Scattered along the north are a handful of renovated country houses offering rural sanctuaries for those with a more nature-oriented escape in mind.

Vibrant Atmosphere
Home to Europe’s largest club, and host to a multitude of others, Ibiza Town, capital of the island itself, embodies the true meaning of pleasure. With activities available around the clock, this town throbs with an exceptional vitality and enthusiasm. Typically attracting a younger crowd to its varied delights, Ibiza has matured in the last few years and now offers many chic enterprises throughout the island.

Formentera
The smallest of the main Balearic Islands, Formentera is composed of two different rock formations: La Mola with its cliff-edged coastline and flat plain which gives rise to the Puig Guillem mountains in the west. Both areas are joined together by 5 kilometers of white, sandy beach known as the Mitjorn, which is an ideal location for nautical sports. Chosen by travelers mainly for its tranquil atmosphere, the beauty of Formentera cannot be denied nor can the unique charm and sedate lifestyle it enjoys.

Festivals
Religious festivals are an integral piece to Formentera’s cultural puzzle, namely the saints’ days of the patron of the island, St.James on July 25th, Santa Maria on the 5th of August and the Verge del Carme, the patron saint of sea-farers on July 16th. Inherited traditions are on proud display during these festivals along with popular dances where ancient costumes are worn to create the ball pages, a traditional Pitiusan dance which should not be missed.

Ports
The main ports of the Pitiusan Islands are the Puerto de Ibiza with 300 berths accommodating yachts of any size, and Formentera’s main port of La Savina, which is commodious enough for pleasure-crafts sized up to 60m to berth alongside the ancient local ships on display.