Formentera, the smallest and least developed of the four main Balearic Islands, boasts fine beaches and mud baths, great walking and cycling trails, as well as secluded coves and sleepy fishing villages.

HOSTAL RAFALET
(00 34 971 327 016). Located on the rocky coastline near Es Caló. £

LAS BANDERAS
Platja Mitjorn (00 34 666 55 9027). The Moroccan-hippie chic Las Banderas, in Platja Mitjorn is where the fashion set, escaping from Ibiza, gather. There are only six rooms, most with breezy porches accessorized with sofas and big comfy cushions, so book ahead in high season. £

HOUSES TO RENT
Contact Laffittacase by Silvia (00 34 971 323 077; mobile: 00 34 0968 0788; fax: 322 992), which has a selection of well-appointed houses on the island, sleeping up to 12 persons each.

El Mirador Restaurant (00 34 971 327 037) is one of the local favourites. Situated above Hostal Rafalet (see Where To Stay, above) at the top of the La Mola plateau, the highest point of the island. Breathtaking views and great seafood.

If the all-night clubs on nearby Ibiza (populated by ravers and celebrities alike) are not for you, try El Teatro Magic (00 34 971 328 862) in Es Pujols. Housed under a wooden marquee, it is a singularly Formenteran light show where slides depicting scenes of the island and its customs are projected on screens forming a 360° circle around the audience. Open 8pm-midnight.

Like the neighbouring isle of Ibiza, Formentera is famed for its hippy stores and markets. Among the best is Puchi Puchi (00 34 971 322 155), a haven for medical plants, herbs, macrobiotic food, natural cosmetics, perfumes and guitar strings, situated right in the centre of the tiny town of San Francisco Xavier.

Take a charter flight to Ibiza. Iberia (0845 601 2854; www.iberia.com) flies from Heathrow, via Barcelona. Ferries depart from Ibiza town for Formentera; there are dozens of crossings daily from 7.30am until the late evening. The journey takes 25 minutes.

The best time to visit the island is from spring through to late summer. In winter, much of the island closes down for the low season.

Contact the Oficina de Turismo de Formentera on 00 34 971 322 057.