Hotel Es Marès

About Hotel Es Marès

Hotel Es Marès is a four-star hotel in the centre of Sant Francesc Xavier, the small capital of Formentera. With a guest score of 4.4 out of 5 from 254 reviews, it suits travellers who want a calm base close to the island's shops, market and main square. The hotel has a garden, an outdoor pool and a spa, so it works for a relaxed stay with time to unwind.

This is a hotel stay rather than a beachfront one. The nearest beach area, Es Pujols, is 3.3 km away in a straight line. The hotel is better placed for exploring the island's interior and villages, with the ferry port at La Savina 3.4 km away. It suits couples and families who prefer a quiet, central location over a seafront setting.

Location: Sant Francesc Xavier

Sant Francesc Xavier is Formentera's capital, a small town built around a fortified 18th-century church. The hotel sits on Santa Maria street, 0.1 km from the church and the main square. The town has a market and the island's main shops, so daily needs are within walking distance. The area feels peaceful, with low-rise buildings and a slow pace.

From the hotel, Sant Ferran de ses Roques is 2.7 km away and Es Pujols is 3.3 km away. La Savina port is 3.4 km away. In high summer, the town stays quieter than the coast, and the hotel's central position means you can walk to the church and market without a car. In the shoulder months of May and October, the town remains open while some coastal businesses close.

Rooms and facilities

The hotel lists a range of facilities in its rooms, including air conditioning, a minibar, a safe, a hairdryer, toiletries, bathrobes and slippers. Each room has a TV, telephone and desk, and some have a terrace. The hotel also lists non-smoking rooms and a wake-up service, which suits late arrivals after the ferry from Ibiza.

For families, the hotel lists cots or extra beds, though you should confirm availability when booking. The 24-hour front desk and luggage storage help if you arrive before check-in or leave after check-out. The hotel lists room service and breakfast in the room, but check with the property about current arrangements, as some services may be seasonal.

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 ferry operators for current timetables.

La Savina is 3.4 km from the hotel in a straight line. From the port, you can take a taxi, a bus or a hire car. The hotel lists car rental service, so you can arrange a vehicle on site. Getting around Formentera is easy by bike using the signposted green routes, or by scooter, bus or taxi. The Consell de Formentera caps visitor vehicles in high season, so check before bringing or hiring a car.

Beaches, sights and food nearby

The hotel is 0.1 km from Sant Francesc and its fortified church, so you can explore the town on foot. The lagoons, where you can watch birds, are 2.1 km away. Estany des Peix, a calm lagoon, is 2.4 km away and is good for paddling. These are the closest sights, all within a short ride or a moderate walk.

For beaches, Es Pujols is 3.3 km away and offers the island's liveliest village atmosphere. The island's other beaches, such as Ses Illetes and Platja de Migjorn, are further afield and need transport. For food, try peix sec (dried fish), island salads and fresh fish, available in the town's eateries. The hotel lists a restaurant and bar, but you can also walk to the market for local produce.

A day from Hotel Es Marès

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel, then walk 0.1 km to Sant Francesc's fortified church. Spend the morning exploring the town's market and shops. In the early afternoon, take a bike or taxi 2.4 km to Estany des Peix for a paddle in calm water. The lagoon is sheltered and quiet, ideal for a slow afternoon.

Return to the hotel for a rest by the pool or a spa treatment. In the late afternoon, walk or cycle the 2.1 km to the lagoons to watch birds as the light softens. End the day back in Sant Francesc for dinner at a local restaurant, then a short walk to the hotel. The distances are short, so the day feels relaxed rather than rushed.

Practical tips

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

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