Can Brilla

About Can Brilla

Can Brilla is a hotel in the quiet centre of Formentera, close to the island's capital, Sant Francesc Xavier. It suits travellers who want a self-catering base with a pool, a garden and parking, without being tied to a specific beach. The hotel is unrated, so you stay for the location and the facilities rather than a star rating.

The hotel is set inland, about 1.6 km from Sant Francesc Xavier and 2.5 km from La Savina port. That puts it between the port, where ferries arrive, and the island's main town, with its shops and fortified church. The outdoor pool and patio give a place to relax after exploring the coast, and the kitchen facilities make it easy to eat in.

Location: Sant Francesc Xavier

Can Brilla sits in the Venda Porto Saler area, a short distance from Sant Francesc Xavier. The village is the island's capital, with a fortified 18th-century church, a market and the main cluster of shops. From the hotel, the village is 1.6 km away, an easy walk or a short cycle on the flat roads.

La Savina, the ferry port, is 2.5 km from the hotel in a straight line. That is close enough for a quick transfer on arrival, but far enough to feel removed from the port's traffic. Cala Saona, the island's one real cove, is 3.1 km away. In high summer, the island gets busy, especially around the port and beaches; in the shoulder months of May and September, the pace is slower and the roads quieter.

Rooms and facilities

The hotel lists air conditioning, free wifi, a safe, a TV and a hairdryer in the rooms. There is also a kitchen or kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, oven, toaster and dishwasher, which suits families who want to prepare meals. A washing machine, iron and board are available, and cots and high chairs are listed for younger children.

The rooms are non-smoking, and pets are allowed, so you can bring a dog. The hotel has family rooms, a garden, a patio and an outdoor pool. Cleaning is included. Confirm with the property which facilities are in your specific room, as the listing covers the whole hotel.

Getting there

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

From La Savina, Can Brilla is 2.5 km away in a straight line. A taxi or a hire car will get you there in a few minutes. To get around the island, bikes are a good option on the flat terrain, using the signposted green routes. Scooters, buses and taxis are also available. The Consell de Formentera caps visitor vehicles in high season, so check before bringing or hiring a car.

Beaches, sights and food nearby

The nearest beach to Can Brilla is Cala Saona, 3.1 km away, a west-facing cove with red cliffs and clear water. The Estany des Peix lagoon is 1.4 km away, a calm spot for a paddleboard or kayak. The lagoons around the Ses Salines Natural Park, including Estany Pudent, are 2.1 km away and good for birdwatching.

Sant Francesc Xavier, 1.6 km away, has the fortified church, a market and the island's shops. The village is the practical hub for supplies. For food, try peix sec (dried fish), island salads and fresh fish, which are local staples. The hotel's kitchen means you can buy produce in the village and cook at home.

A day from Can Brilla

Start the day with a short walk or cycle to Sant Francesc Xavier, 1.6 km away, to see the fortified church and pick up breakfast supplies at the market. Then head to the Estany des Peix lagoon, 1.4 km from the hotel, for a paddle in calm water. The lagoon is sheltered and quiet in the morning.

In the afternoon, take the 3.1 km trip to Cala Saona for a swim and some sun. The cove faces west, so it is a good spot to stay for the evening and watch the sunset. Return to Can Brilla for dinner, using the kitchen or eating out at one of the island's restaurants. The pool is a good way to end the day.

Practical tips

Much of Formentera's tourism business closes roughly from November to April, so check with Can Brilla about its opening dates before booking. July and August are the peak months, with the busiest beaches and the highest demand for ferries. The Balearic sustainable tourism tax is charged per person per night by the hotel; the rate varies by season and accommodation type, is reduced for longer stays, and children under 16 are exempt. Check the current rate with the Govern de les Illes Balears.

Questions about Can Brilla