Kola, the memory of an island that has change without renouncing its essence: “It remains a peaceful and charming haven.”
Some people simply pass through a place. Others, almost without realising it, become part of it.
On Wednesday 12 August 2026, the sunset in Formentera will have an unusual centrepiece. The Moon will pass between the Earth and the Sun and, for a few seconds, daylight will almost completely disappear.
The phenomenon will be brief, but the experience will begin much earlier. The partial phase will last for almost an hour, and totality will occur when the Sun is already very close to the horizon. Choosing the right location and avoiding last-minute decisions will therefore be just as important as having suitable eclipse glasses.
The solar eclipse in Formentera 2026 will also coincide with one of the busiest periods of the summer season. The best approach will not be to drive around the island in search of the most popular viewpoint, but to check in advance which nearby location offers a clear view to the west.
According to official information from the Government of the Balearic Islands, the Moon will begin to cover the Sun at approximately 19:38. The path of totality will cross the islands from north to south and reach Formentera at around 20:33:23. On the island, complete darkness will last for less than thirty seconds.
18:45-19:00: arrive at your chosen location, avoiding last-minute journeys and parking problems.
19:38: approximate start of the partial phase. From this point onwards, approved eye protection must be worn.
20:15: aim to be settled in by this time, check the horizon and put your phone or camera away unless it is fitted with a suitable solar filter.
20:33:23: approximate time totality reaches Formentera. Complete darkness will last for less than 30 seconds.
After totality: put your eclipse glasses back on immediately as soon as any part of the Sun reappears, and wait a few minutes before leaving the area.
Timings may vary by a few seconds depending on your exact location. Spain’s National Geographic Institute provides an official map viewer for checking the eclipse, while the Horitzó Eclipsi 2026 tool allows you to assess conditions from a specific point.
During totality, the Sun will be very low, at around two and a half degrees above the horizon. A building, tree, hill or even a relatively small rise in the landscape could block the key moment, even if the sky is completely clear.
Your chosen spot should offer a wide, unobstructed view towards the west, where the Sun will set. Choosing a well-known beach or elevated area is not enough: you also need to make sure that nothing blocks your line of sight.
The Government recommends reducing unnecessary journeys and, wherever possible, finding a suitable location close to your accommodation. Between 7 and 11 August, it also suggests carrying out a practical check by looking west at the reference time shown in Horitzó 2026. If the Sun is visible from that point, the location is more likely to provide a full view of totality.
The following areas may be worth considering because of their orientation or suitability for stargazing. They should not be regarded as officially designated or guaranteed viewing points. Before setting off, check access, any restrictions and the latest guidance issued by the authorities.
1. Cala Saona
Cala Saona lies on Formentera’s west coast and is well known for the sunsets visible from this part of the island. Its orientation will make it one of the first areas many visitors consider for watching the eclipse.
Its popularity is also a good reason not to arrive at the last minute. The beach is surrounded by higher ground, so visibility may vary depending on exactly where you stand. The safest approach is to check the horizon beforehand and always respect authorised access routes and parking areas.
2. Can Marroig and Punta de sa Pedrera
Can Marroig is one of the island’s recognised locations for observing the sky. Its north-western position and several open areas facing the sea make it an interesting place to assess using Horitzó 2026.
As this is a sensitive natural environment, it is essential to stay on the paths, never park on vegetation and take all rubbish away with you. Any special measures introduced for the eclipse must also be respected.
3. Estany des Peix and the area around La Savina
The western area near Estany des Peix may be practical for anyone wishing to avoid a long journey. Its proximity to La Savina makes planning easier, although not every point offers the same view of the horizon.
Buildings, masts, boats and small rises in the landscape may block the view. Before choosing this area, enter the exact point into the official tool and check the direction of sunset in person.
4. Cap de Barbaria
Cap de Barbaria is one of Formentera’s most recognisable landscapes and is listed among the island’s areas of astronomical interest.
However, it may not be the quietest option. Its popularity, access arrangements and proximity to the cliffs could lead to a high concentration of visitors. This is a practical consideration rather than an official forecast. Before travelling there, check whether any restrictions or special traffic measures have been announced.
5. Punta Rasa and the cliffs near Cala Saona
Punta Rasa and the cliffs close to Cala Saona are also included among Formentera’s astrotourism locations.
These areas have uneven ground and sections close to the cliff edge. They are not suitable for everyone, particularly as the return journey will take place in low light. Families with children, people with reduced mobility and visitors unfamiliar with the terrain would be better choosing an accessible location well away from the cliffs.
You should not assume that the eclipse will be visible from every street, terrace or point along Es Pujols beach. The town is on the eastern side of the island, and the Sun will be very low above the western horizon.
Before crossing Formentera, use Horitzó 2026 to check whether there is a nearby point with a suitable line of sight. The app lets you select a location, take the actual horizon profile into account, use a compass and simulate the Sun’s position.
Finding an accessible area near Es Pujols could be more convenient than travelling to the best-known locations and then setting off back at the same time as hundreds of other vehicles.
Ordinary sunglasses do not protect your eyes during an eclipse. You must use glasses specifically designed for solar viewing that comply with ISO 12312-2 and check that they are not scratched, punctured, damp or damaged.
Eye protection must be worn throughout the partial phase. Always follow official instructions about the exact start and end of totality, and put your glasses back on immediately as soon as sunlight reappears.
Never look at the Sun through a camera, binoculars or telescope unless it has a professional solar filter correctly fitted to the front. Viewing the Sun through an unprotected optical device can greatly increase the risk of eye injury.
August is also a particularly sensitive month for the natural environment. Do not smoke near vegetation, light fires, block paths, leave rubbish behind or enter closed areas.
Planning can be straightforward:
Choose your location several days in advance, check visibility using the official tools, review the weather forecast and consult the latest traffic and transport guidance on the morning of 12 August.
Take water, sun protection, approved eclipse glasses and a small torch for the journey back. Remember that viewing will begin in full sunlight but end very close to nightfall.
Once totality has ended, avoid leaving immediately. Waiting a few minutes may help reduce the concentration of vehicles and people around access points.
Access arrangements, viewing areas, traffic management measures and safety recommendations may change in the days leading up to the eclipse. Before setting off, consult the official website of the Government of the Balearic Islands and follow instructions from the Formentera Island Council and the emergency services.
The team at Hotel Rosales Formentera reception will also be delighted to help you consult the latest official information on access, transport and recommendations so that you can enjoy the eclipse with peace of mind.
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