Aptos Barbarroja

About Aptos Barbarroja

Aptos Barbarroja is a 3-star apartment stay on Formentera, set inland from the long south-coast beach of Platja de Migjorn. The guest score of 4.2 out of 5 from 33 reviews points to a solid, no-frills base for travellers who want the island's quiet side. It suits couples and families who prefer a garden and pool to a busy resort strip, and who are happy to move around by bike or car.

The apartments are listed with a kitchen, air conditioning, a terrace and free wifi. The outdoor pool, kids' pool and pool bar give the complex a self-contained feel. Formentera is flat and small, so this kind of stay works well for a week of beach hopping, cycling and simple evening meals. The property is not on the beach; Platja de Migjorn is 1 km away as the crow flies.

Location: Platja de Migjorn

Aptos Barbarroja sits in the southern part of Formentera, between the village of Sant Ferran de ses Roques and the coast. Sant Ferran is 2.2 km away in a straight line, a small crossroads village with a couple of shops and a relaxed atmosphere. Sant Francesc Xavier, the island's capital, is 3.7 km away and has the fortified church, a market and the main cluster of services.

The beach at Platja de Migjorn is 1 km away, a long open stretch backed by dunes and juniper. The distance is short but not necessarily a walk with beach gear; a bike or car makes it easier. In high summer, the south coast gets busy with day visitors, but the area around the apartments stays quieter. In the shoulder months, from late April to June and September to October, the pace is slower and many places close outside the main season.

Rooms and facilities

The apartments are listed with a kitchen, refrigerator, oven and coffee facilities, which suits self-catering stays. Air conditioning, a safe, TV and a hairdryer are also listed, along with a bath and a terrace. Families can ask about a cot, and the kids' pool is a practical feature. The property lists non-smoking rooms and free wifi throughout.

Late arrivals should confirm check-in times with the property, as the reception may not be staffed around the clock. The listed facilities include laundry service and daily cleaning, but it is worth checking what is included in the rate. The pool bar is on site, though opening hours may vary outside the summer months. Free car parking and a garage are listed, which helps if you bring a hire car.

Getting there

Formentera has no airport. Fly to Ibiza Airport (IBZ), about 7 km south-west of Ibiza Town, then take a taxi or bus to the port. Ferries from Ibiza Town to La Savina take about 30-35 minutes on fast services and about an hour on conventional ferries. Sailings are frequent in season and fewer in winter, so check the ferry operators for current timetables.

From La Savina, Aptos Barbarroja is 6.7 km away in a straight line, a short drive across the flat island. A hire car, scooter or bike can be arranged at the port or through the property, which lists car rental and garage facilities. The Consell de Formentera caps visitor vehicles in high season, so check the rules before bringing a car. Bikes and the signposted green routes are a good alternative for getting around.

Beaches, sights and food nearby

The nearest beach is Platja de Migjorn, 1 km away, a long open south-coast beach backed by dunes and juniper. Sant Francesc Xavier, 3.7 km away, has the fortified 18th-century church built as a refuge, plus a market and shops. The boat houses at Es Caló are 5 km away, a tiny fishing harbour below La Mola. The lagoons near the port, 5.1 km away, are good for birdwatching, especially around Estany Pudent and Estany des Peix.

Formentera's food is simple and local: peix sec (dried fish), island salads and fresh fish. You will find these in the villages and at beach bars along the south coast, though many close from November to April. Sant Ferran de ses Roques, 2.2 km away, is a handy stop for supplies. The island's famous clear water is best seen at Ses Illetes, but that is on the north coast, further from the apartments.

A day from Aptos Barbarroja

Start the day at Aptos Barbarroja with breakfast on the terrace. Head to Platja de Migjorn, 1 km away, for a morning swim before the wind picks up. The beach is long and open, with dunes and juniper behind it. Bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited along this stretch. In the afternoon, cycle or drive to Sant Francesc Xavier, 3.7 km away, to see the fortified church and browse the market.

In the evening, go to Es Caló, 5 km away, to see the boat houses at the tiny harbour. Watch the light change over the water, then return towards Sant Ferran for a simple dinner. The island is flat, so the distances are easy by bike or scooter. If you have energy left, the lagoons near the port, 5.1 km away, are a quiet spot for a late walk and birdwatching before dusk.

Practical tips

Much of Formentera's tourism business closes roughly from November to April, so check with Aptos Barbarroja about its opening dates before booking. July and August are the busiest months, with more crowds and higher demand for transport. The Balearic sustainable tourism tax (the ecotasa) is charged per person per night by the accommodation; the rate depends on the season and length of stay, and children under 16 are exempt. Check the Govern de les Illes Balears for current rates.

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