Faro de Es Cap de Barbaria

Everything you need to know about Es Cap de Barbaria  Lighthouse 

The Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse, situated at the southern tip of the island of Formentera, is a prominent point of interest in this Mediterranean gem. This lighthouse, in continuous operation since 1971, stands in a uniquely arid and rocky environment, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings.

During the warm summer months, access to the lighthouse by car or motorcycle is restricted, which means visitors must park approximately 1 kilometer away and continue on foot. Although this small inconvenience may seem like a drawback, the result is a quieter and more environmentally respectful experience in the natural surroundings that envelop the lighthouse.

One of the most special moments to visit Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse is at sunset. From this elevated vantage point, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the sunset over the sea, creating a magical and memorable atmosphere. The cliffs that stretch along the coastline, rising to heights of approximately 70 meters above sea level, provide a stunning backdrop for this natural spectacle.

In addition to the lighthouse itself, the surrounding area also hosts other points of interest. Near the lighthouse, you’ll find the “Cova Foradada,” a cave with a natural opening that creates a mysterious and unique atmosphere. Also, the “Torre des Garroveret,” a historical defense tower that offers a glimpse into the island’s past.

Keep in mind… 

Due to its arid environment and the absence of vegetation providing any shade, it is not advisable to visit Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse during the hottest hours, especially if the visit is planned during the summer months when access by cars and motorcycles is restricted, and you must park about a kilometer before reaching the lighthouse.

How to get to Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse 

To access Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse, it is essential to follow a set of instructions to ensure a safe and hassle-free arrival. Starting from the charming village of Sant Francesc, located in the heart of the island of Formentera, the journey to this iconic lighthouse becomes a unique experience.

Beginning on the PM820 road, the route starts at the second roundabout in Sant Francesc. Here, you should take the exit clearly indicating the direction towards Cala Saona. From this point, it is important to stay straight on this well-signposted road without any deviations.

Approximately 2.5 kilometers from the roundabout, you will come across a right turn leading to Cala Saona. However, if you are visiting Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse during the summer months, it is recommended to ignore this turn and continue straight. About 7.5 kilometers from the roundabout, you will reach the designated parking area for cars and motorcycles. From here, access to the lighthouse is on foot, with a distance of approximately 1 kilometer.

It’s important to note that after the turnoff to Cala Saona, the road narrows significantly and lacks a shoulder. Therefore, it is essential to drive with extra caution and be attentive to traffic, allowing other vehicles you may encounter on the way to pass safely.

Parking Area 

Parking near Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse, one of the natural gems of Formentera Island, has undergone significant changes since 2017. In order to preserve this beautiful environment, a regulation was implemented that restricts access by cars and motorcycles to a distance of approximately 1 kilometer from the lighthouse.

This restriction is enforced through a barrier that only allows access to pedestrians, bicycles, or vehicles with occupants who have limited mobility. While this measure may appear restrictive at first glance, it has proven to be an important step in maintaining the natural beauty of the area. The designated parking area for cars and motorcycles can accommodate around 70 cars and approximately 100 motorcycles, providing suitable parking options for visitors.

This traffic limitation in the vicinity of Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse has proven to be a wise idea. Before the regulation, the area used to be crowded with vehicles, leading to landscape degradation and providing a less enjoyable experience for visitors. Thanks to this measure, the area has been revitalized, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility that the lighthouse’s surroundings offer.

It’s important to note that the restriction on access for cars and motorcycles is typically enforced from early June to late September. During this period, the area transforms into a haven of peace and serenity, where visitors can explore Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse and its surroundings on foot without the congestion and intrusion of car and motorcycle traffic.

Cap de Barbaria Area

The surroundings of Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse feature a distinctive and characteristic landscape of Formentera Island, characterized by its aridness and the abundant presence of rocks. Vegetation in this area is sparse, and the beauty lies in its simplicity and the vastness of the horizon that stretches out to the sea.

Historically, this area of Formentera witnessed the presence of Mediterranean forests, and in response to this supposed reality, the Consell Insular de Formentera embarked on a reforestation process for parts of its surroundings. This effort to reintroduce vegetation in the area has generated some controversy among residents and biologists, as they question the wisdom of the project and the introduction of non-native pine trees to Formentera.

Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse not only offers a stunning natural spectacle but also serves as a gateway to remarkable places in its vicinity. One of them is the “Cova Foradada,” a cave located to the right of the lighthouse. Access to this cave is through a marked hole in the ground that leads to an impressive balcony situated a few meters below the edge of the cliffs. From this natural viewpoint, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and the surroundings of the lighthouse.

Just a little over 500 meters to the east of the lighthouse lies the Torre des Garroveret, one of the four defense towers built in the 18th century to protect the island from pirate attacks. This historic tower serves as a testament to Formentera’s rich history and is set within an equally impressive environment.

Julio Medem and Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse 

The film “Lucía y el Sexo,” directed by the talented filmmaker Julio Medem and released in 2001, played a notable role in the growing fame of Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse and, by extension, the entire island of Formentera.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of the relationship between the film and this area of Formentera is the use of an image of Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse as the movie’s cover. This choice was not accidental, as the arid and mysterious surroundings of the lighthouse were impressively integrated into the visual narrative of the film. This iconic image significantly contributed to raising the area’s profile and attracted a wider audience.

As a result of this cover choice, Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse gained even more fame and became an unmistakable landmark. The film, at the time, served as a calling card for Formentera to the Spanish audience. Prior to that, Formentera was not among the prominent tourist destinations for the Spanish public, but thanks to Medem’s film, it started to stand out on travelers’ radars.

The influence of “Lucía y el Sexo” on the perception of Formentera as a unique and desirable tourist destination remains evident today. This film was not only a cinematic masterpiece but also a catalyst for the recognition and appreciation of the natural beauty of this charming Balearic island.

Sunset at Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse 

Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse on Formentera Island presents itself as one of those places that seem to come straight out of fairy tales, and visiting it is an experience worth having. To make the most of this magical spot, it’s highly recommended to plan your visit for the late afternoon, avoiding the scorching sun and excessive heat.

This lighthouse stands out as one of the most magical destinations from which to watch the sunset. As the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, the atmosphere becomes enchanting, and the colors of the sky and the sea blend into a stunning visual spectacle, perfect for capturing beautiful photos to share with your followers on Instagram.

On particularly clear days, which often coincide with northward winds, visitors have the opportunity to glimpse something extraordinary. The silhouette of the Denia mountains on the mainland becomes visible on the horizon, adding an even more impressive dimension to the view.

Most people who visit Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse head to the right of the lighthouse to watch the sunset. However, there’s another option for those seeking a more intimate and tranquil atmosphere. You can choose to head to the left side of the lighthouse. From this point, the sun will set over the land instead of the sea, providing a different perspective and a serene setting to enjoy the sunset. The choice is yours, and both options promise unforgettable moments.

Stone Cairns: No !!!

The surroundings of Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse are a place of natural beauty and tranquility that deserves to be preserved in its original state. However, it’s important to highlight a crucial aspect. From this website, we want to discourage the practice of creating balanced stone cairns in this unique environment.

While creating these stone cairns may seem like a harmless and artistic act, it has harmful effects on the flora and fauna of the area. The flora and fauna of the Cap de Barbaria region naturally use scattered stones as protection against the severe weather conditions of the region. When visitors pile stones to create cairns, they disrupt the natural balance that characterizes this environment and pose difficulties for the endemic lizards of the area and plant species that depend on the moisture accumulated beneath the scattered stones.

Therefore, instead of imitating those who have created stone cairns before, we encourage you to be different and contribute to the ecological well-being of the area and its wildlife. If you come across one of these cairns, consider giving it a kick and knocking it down. This act may seem insignificant, but in reality, you will be helping preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of this unique environment.