Beyond the beaches, coves and famous sunsets, the waters surrounding Ibiza and Formentera are scattered with small islands and rocky islets that form an important part of the Pityusic landscape.
Some are instantly recognisable, while others are tiny, protected and largely untouched. Together, they add another fascinating layer to the natural identity of the islands.
Es Vedrà
Perhaps the most famous islet associated with Ibiza, Es Vedrà rises dramatically from the Mediterranean off the island's southwest coast.
Located within the protected Cala d'Hort area, the rocky islet is one of Ibiza's most recognisable natural landmarks and is particularly famous for its sunsets and distinctive silhouette.
Its ecological importance is also significant, with the surrounding area forming part of Ibiza's protected natural heritage.
Es Vedranell
Just beside Es Vedrà is the smaller Es Vedranell.
The two rocky formations create one of Ibiza's most spectacular coastal landscapes, particularly when viewed from Cala d'Hort or from the sea.
The islet is uninhabited and forms part of the same protected natural environment.
S'Espalmador
North of Formentera lies S'Espalmador, one of the best-known islets in the Pityusic Islands.
The privately owned islet forms part of the Ses Salines d'Eivissa i Formentera Natural Park, an extensive protected area covering land and marine environments between Ibiza and Formentera.
S'Espalmador is particularly notable for its remarkably well-preserved dune system and pristine coastline. The islet measures approximately 1.8 miles in length and around 800 metres at its widest point.
Espardell
Located further south in the waters between Ibiza and Formentera, Espardell is a small, uninhabited rocky islet surrounded by exceptionally clear Mediterranean waters.
Together with the other islets around Formentera, it forms part of the extraordinary marine landscape of the Pityuses.
The Islets Around Ibiza and Formentera
These are only some of the islands and rocks scattered around the two main Pityusic islands.
The surrounding islets are particularly important for wildlife. Ibiza's famous wall lizard, for example, has evolved into numerous distinctive populations on different islets, with researchers documenting remarkable variations in colour and appearance.
The waters surrounding the islands are equally important. The Ses Salines area includes a large marine zone between Ibiza and Formentera, where protected Posidonia oceanica meadows help support the exceptional clarity and biodiversity of the Mediterranean waters.
Why These Islets Matter
The smaller islands surrounding Ibiza and Formentera are much more than beautiful scenery viewed from a boat.
They provide habitats for wildlife, contribute to the islands' biodiversity and form part of protected natural areas. Some are also particularly sensitive to human activity.
That makes responsible boating especially important. Anchoring, landing on protected areas and disturbing wildlife can cause lasting damage to fragile ecosystems.
For visitors, one of the best ways to appreciate these places is simply to admire them from the water while respecting the restrictions that protect them.
The islets of Ibiza and Formentera may be small, but they are an essential part of what makes the Pityuses so unique.
