Formentera - Balearic Islands - Spain

Formentera is the smallest and southernmost island of the Illes Pitiüses group (which includes Ibiza and Formentera) and belongs to the Balearic Islands autonomous community (Spain). It is 19 kilometres (12 mi) long and is located approximately 6 kilometres (4 mi) south of Ibiza in the Mediterranean Sea. Its major villages are Sant Francesc Xavier, Sant Ferran de ses Roques, El Pilar de la Mola and La Savina. The island was reachable by ship only from Ibiza, making it the quieter of the two islands but in recent years regular lines from the Spanish mainland have increased the amount of tourism. It is known for its many pristine beaches and the fact that nude sunbathing is allowed on most of its beaches. North of Formentera is the small island of Espalmador (Illa de s'Empalmador). Espalmador is separated from Formentera by a shallow sandbar, and during low tide, it is possible for one to wade between the two islands. This area is a popular stopping point for those in yachts heading between Ibiza and Formentera. Formentera comprises one municipality, also called Formentera, and has a population of 7,461 (2002). Its land area is 83.24 square kilometres (32.1 sq mi). A local dialect of Catalan is spoken in Formentera, while the official languages are Catalan and Spanish. Italian, Spanish and German can be heard extensively in the summer. ( source Wikipedia )