Trail running in Formentera: routes, races and tips for runners
Everything about trail running in Formentera: where to run, which races are held, when they take place and tips for runners.
Trail running in Formentera: an ideal island for running
Formentera has no big mountains, but it does have dirt tracks, trails through pine and juniper woods, sea views and plenty of silence. Everything a trail runner needs. Running here is a way of exploring the island with all five senses, far from the tarmac and with the sea always close by. The island’s big climb is at la Mola, the plateau in the east, which is why the main races are held there.
Camí de sa Pujada. Photo: Joan Gené, CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to run in Formentera
Although there are no great heights, Formentera’s terrain is varied. You can run along:
- Green routes: the island has more than 30 waymarked green routes, with easy routes and firm ground.
- Camí de sa Pujada: the Roman road, a 4 km cobbled climb between es Caló and la Mola, with some of the best views on the island.
- The north coast of la Mola: from the Racó de sa Pujada, green route 26 takes you to es Ram (2.4 km).
- From north to south: route 24 crosses 1.4 km from es Caló to es Copinar beach, in Migjorn.
Trail races in Formentera
The main event is Formentera to Run, a week-long stage trail race around the island between late May and early June, organised by the Zitoway agency. The 2026 edition finished in early June with the final stage at la Mola, and the next one is scheduled for the same dates in 2027.
The final race is the Formentera Trail, starting and finishing in el Pilar de la Mola. There are three categories:
- Formentera Trail 21.1: a 21.1 km trail half marathon with around 420 metres of elevation gain. It combines the flat top of la Mola with the descent to Migjorn via s’Estufador and the climb back up the Roman road. The next edition is scheduled for 5 June 2027.
- 10 km: a timed race across the top of la Mola, with little elevation gain.
- 10 km walk: non-competitive.
Places are limited (around 250 per race), so check the dates and how to enter on the organiser’s website, zitoway.com.
If you prefer tarmac, the Formentera Half Marathon takes place in May, from la Mola lighthouse to la Savina.
Tips for runners
- Carry water: many routes have no drinking fountains or shade.
- Protect your skin: the sun is strong even first thing in the morning.
- Watch your footing: some rocky areas can be unstable, especially on the descents.
- Leave no trace: stick to the marked paths, don’t pick plants and don’t leave litter.
Trail and sea, the perfect combination
Many runners use the mornings to train and the afternoons to relax on the beach. And if after a tough run you fancy something different, swap your trainers for a boat trip. Boat hire in Formentera is ideal for recharging body and mind, cruising along the coast and anchoring in a cove, always on sand and never on posidonia. You can go out with a skipper or, if you have at least the navigation licence, take the helm yourself.
Formentera, at your own pace
Running in Formentera is more than just exercise. It’s a way of getting to know the island from the inside. Every step connects you with the landscape, your surroundings and yourself.
