Houses iced in whitewash guard a pale shore-line
Cornered by the cactus and the pine
Here I wander where sweet sage and strange herbs grow
Down a sun-baked crumpled stony road.
These opening lyrics to the 1969 song “Formentera Lady” by British band, King Crimson helps to explain why many musicians have found inspiration on the tiny island of Formentera over the years. Whilst King Crimson drew their inspiration in the 60s, David Gilmour (Pink Floyd) was being inspired in the noughties for his album “On an island”. We couldn’t find a video of King Crimson performing their track, we hope that you enjoy this version by Colin Barley.
Formentera is the smallest of the inhabited Balearic Islands. It is also the most southerly and only accessible by boat from Ibiza. It only has around 12,000 permanent residents and is famed for its pristine white sandy beaches. Being fairly flat, all parts of the island are easily accessible by bike as well as moped or car.
The British left their influence on the island in terms of what are called Martello towers. These towers were built in numbers around the British Empire to defend its territories from enemies, especially the French. The towers would house around 25 men and typically one large gun on the flat roof. With walls at least 8 feet thick they could withstand a bit of a battering from naval artillery. Note in the photo below, the entrance door was 10 feet above the ground and access gained via a ladder.
It is said that Bob Dylan spent four months living on the island in the windmill below (he probably stayed in the house next door). If it is good enough for Bob Dylan, then it’s probably an excellent destination for the rest of us. He came for the peace and quiet and in the past 40 years, the island still pulses at a much slower rate than the other larger Balearic islands.
The authorities are attempting to restrict the number of tourists and in particular the number of tourist cars, either hire cars or private cars coming via ferry from Ibiza. The plan is to protect the existing infrastructure and natural habit of the island.
To visit this little gem of an island contact Maggie today to book your flights, ferries and accommodation.
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