It can be fascinating, the technology behind lighthouses. But, even if you are not interested in these mechanisms, their architecture, or their history, they will always be a landmark for great coastal landscapes. No wonder they are one of the favourite spots for photography lovers.

I ventured out on the Trails of Ibiza and Formentera tour at the end of September 2022, an 8-day itinerary that explores the natural beauty of one of the Balearic Islands. Ibiza is often known for its golden sandy beaches, ancient shrines and country roads lined with olive and citrus groves. Sometimes overlooked, but rich with stories, here are some of the best lighthouses I encountered during my time in Ibiza and Formentera.

Faro des Moscarter
Standing at 52 metres, this is the tallest lighthouse in the Balearic Islands. It can be reached by a 20-minute walk along the northern coast of the island from the beach of Es Portixol, following the increasingly rocky path. It can be also spotted in the distance from places such as S’Escullet or Es Pujolots.

Punta Grossa Lighthouse
Located at an inaccessible point, all the materials for the construction were transported by sea. Built in the 1800s, there was much debate about where this lighthouse should be situated; whether it should be used for protecting Punta Grossa or be built on Tagomago island to assist fishermen. Opting for the former, soon after its construction, locals admitted that the location was not ideal and very quickly became disused. However, you can still get incredible views of this lighthouse and the surrounding area from Serra d’en Negre’s path near Cala de S’Aigua Dolça.

Penjats Lighthouse
This was the first lighthouse on the island to be automated, relieving the burden and harsh living conditions suffered by the lighthouse keepers, the only inhabitants of this small islet. It was built to guide ships through the narrow body of water between Ibiza and Formentera and the ferries that run between the islands, boast excellent views of the lighthouse.

Far d’en Pou
Being particularly exposed, a separate house for the lighthouse keepers had to be built on higher ground as waves would often wash right over the small islet. An underground gallery was also built connecting the tower to the dwellings. Similar to Penjats, you can enjoy great views of the lighthouse on the ferry journey between Ibiza and Formentera.

La Mola Lighthouse
Located on a cliff 120 metres above sea level on the east of Formentera the Far de la Mola lighthouse has been declared a Cultural Interest Site as one of the few examples in the island of architecture from the second half of the 19th century. It is one of the most visited places on the island and in his novel, Hector Servadac Jules Verne referred to the feature as the 'lighthouse at the end of the world', looking over an endless sea. 

Es Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse
This is the most southern light in the Balearic Islands and sits 65 metres above the sea, looking onto the African coast. As an isolated area, you can only reach this lighthouse by foot, yet it offers a special moment where the sea and sky meet uninterrupted. From Es Cap de Barbaria, you can get a view over Ibiza and Es Vedra to the North and over the other side of Formentera to the East. On clear days you can even spot the mountains of the Iberian Peninsula on the horizon.Whilst here, it is worth visiting the Cova Foradada and the Garroveret Tower nearby.

Often underrated features, lighthouses are a key part of the history and landscape of Ibiza and Formentera... and always make for a great photo opportunity!

To explore the itinerary and see what else these islands have to offer, visit the website here