Tiny Spanish island 'better than Ibiza' with one of the world's top 10 beaches

Forget Ibiza, there's a new Spanish island that's capturing the attention of travellers and it's not even on most people's radar. This hidden Mediterranean gem offers untouched landscapes, crystal-clear waters and one of the world's top 10 beaches, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more authentic escape.

Swap the glitz and glamour of Ibiza for Formentera, the smallest of the Balearic Islands, for a more tranquil retreat. The island's crowning jewel is Platja Illetes, a pristine beach with white sand and turquoise waters that has been named one of the world's best by Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2025 guide.

Situated on the western tip of the Trucador Peninsula, Platja Illetes is, according to Lonely Planet, "as close a vision of the Caribbean (minus the coconut trees) as you could imagine in Europe", reports the Express.

The guide warns: "You may never want to leave. Just offshore are the two small illetes (islets), Pouet and Rodona, that give the beach its name. In high season, expect lots of day trippers from Ibiza."

However, Formentera is a far cry from Ibiza's bustling nightlife and crowded beaches. The island is largely car-free, making cycling and walking the perfect ways to explore its secluded coves, rugged cliffs, and charming villages.

A paradise for beach lovers, Platja Illetes boasts shallow, warm waters perfect for swimming, while its soft sand is ideal for sunbathing. The beach is part of the Ses Salines Natural Park, a protected area teeming with wildlife and flora.

Formentera, with its tranquil atmosphere and pristine landscapes, is the ideal spot for those in search of a peaceful getaway. The island's Natural Park of Ses Salines is a safeguarded wildlife sanctuary, hosting flamingos and