Torre des Garroveret

Everything you need to know about Torre des Garroveret 

Torre des Garroveret in Formentera is an imposing testament to the island’s history. Built in the 18th century, this defensive tower stands majestically on the cliffs of Cap de Barbaria, specifically on Punta des Garroveret. Its purpose in those times was crucial: to tirelessly guard the surrounding waters and safeguard the island from possible pirate ship incursions that lurked along the southern shores of Formentera.

Located at a mere distance of about 400 meters from the Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse, Torre des Garroveret stands as a silent beacon of its own era, reminding us of the pivotal role it played in protecting the island.

From its position, you can behold breathtaking views of the entire Migjorn and La Mola coast, a natural spectacle that undoubtedly makes your visit an unforgettable experience for those who venture to discover the secrets of Formentera.

Keep in mind… 

Due to its proximity to the Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse, it is highly recommended to combine a visit to both heritage sites during your visit to this area of Formentera. This way, you’ll have a broader and more comprehensive view of this part of the island.

How to get to Torre des Garroveret 

1. Starting from the picturesque village of Sant Francesc, located in the heart of Formentera, embark on a journey through the island’s rural heart towards the Tower of Es Garroveret.
2. Travel along the main road PM820, using the second roundabout in Sant Francesc as your starting point. Here, it’s essential to choose the exit clearly marked for Cala Saona or Cap de Barbaria.
3. From this point, stay on the straight road, which is well-marked with clear signs. Continue along this road without taking the detour indicating Cala Saona, which is about 2.5 kilometers away.
4. After approximately 7.5 kilometers from the roundabout, you’ll reach a designated parking area specifically for cars and motorcycles. From here, vehicle access is prohibited, and access to the tower is on foot, covering a distance of approximately 1.5 kilometers.
5. The narrow road will lead you to the Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse, and once there, you should take a path of dirt and stones that heads to the left, in the eastward direction.
6. About 400 meters from this point, the majestic Tower of Es Garroveret will appear before your eyes, revealing itself as the southernmost defensive construction in all of the Balearic Islands.

Parking

The parking area when visiting Torre des Garroveret coincides with the same area designated for those who wish to explore the Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse. During the summer months, a motor vehicle traffic restriction is implemented, extending up to 1.5 kilometers from the tower. This measure aims to preserve the environment and ensure the safety of visitors during a season when the influx is considerably high.

This prohibition of vehicle access during the summer has had a positive impact by making the visit to this part of the island more relaxed and enjoyable. Visitors can appreciate the natural beauty and history of Torre des Garroveret and the Cap de Barbaria Lighthouse in a quieter setting, allowing them to fully savor the majesty of this corner of Formentera.

However, during the winter months, when visitor numbers decrease, access by car or motorcycle to the lighthouse itself is permitted.

History of Torre des Garroveret 

Torre des Garroveret, also known as the Torre del Cap de Barbaria, is a watchtower built in 1763 on Formentera to defend the coasts of the Pitiusas Islands from pirates. It is the southernmost tower on the island, and therefore in the Balearic Islands, and it controlled navigation in the south and west.

The tower has a truncated conical shape, stands nine meters tall, and consists of two floors and an upper platform with panoramic views. It was constructed using limestone and lime mortar, with six ribs made of marès blocks.
Initially, it served as an active defense tower as it had one of the cannons that also defended the church of Sant Francesc. However, in 1824, it was disarmed and transformed into a surveillance tower.

These defense and surveillance towers contributed to the safety of the population and the repopulation process of Formentera in the late 18th century.

My feelings at Torre des Garroveret 

Torre des Garroveret in Formentera evokes deep thoughts about life on the island during the 18th century. I imagine what the existence of those inhabitants was like, whose lives were inextricably linked to the smoke signals emanating from the defense towers, a network of warning against the dreaded pirate attacks that threatened their homes.

Living with the constant fear of being kidnapped and sold as slaves, or even facing the theft of their modest possessions and livestock, must have been a terrifying reality. Each day represented a struggle for survival and the protection of what they valued most.

Sitting on the ground with my back against Torre des Garroveret, where the guardians watched over the southern coast of Formentera, I can feel a profound connection with the past. At the same time, I observe how this beautiful island has evolved over the centuries. Here, in this place of astonishing views, I can appreciate how time has transformed Formentera from a refuge threatened by piracy into a paradise of tranquility and beauty.

Torre des Garroveret stands as a monument to the island’s history and the bravery of its inhabitants in times past. Through its stones and strategic position, it reminds us of the importance of preserving our heritage and appreciating the peace and security we currently enjoy.