La Mola lighthouse stands at the eastern tip of Formentera, at the end of the road that crosses the La Mola plateau through the village of El Pilar de la Mola. It's easy to reach by car, scooter, bike or even on foot from El Pilar, and the best time to go is at sunrise, when there's hardly anyone there.
Some places you see in a photo, and some you need to spend time in. La Mola lighthouse is one of the latter. From there, there's nothing left but the sea. It's very close to our house and it's probably the place we go back to most often. Here's how to get there, when to go and what to keep in mind to enjoy it without rushing.
A little history: the lighthouse "at the end of the world"
The lighthouse came into service in 1861, high on the cliffs that close off the island to the east. Jules Verne put it in literature in his novel Hector Servadac, in which a comet carries off part of the Mediterranean and this lighthouse is left as one of the last points of land. Next to the lighthouse there's a monument, from 1978, that recalls the story.
Since 2019 the lighthouse building has also been a cultural space, with an exhibition about lighthouses, the sea and navigation, and a room that hosts concerts and activities. Opening hours change with the season, so it's worth checking them before you go if you want to go inside.
How to get to La Mola lighthouse
From anywhere on the island, take the main road east, climb the La Mola hill and drive through the village of El Pilar de la Mola. The road ends at the lighthouse: you can't miss it.
- By car or scooter: the most comfortable option. There's a parking area next to the lighthouse, which fills up quickly at the busiest times.
- By bike: the climb up to La Mola is demanding, but once you're on top the plateau is fairly flat and the ride from El Pilar to the lighthouse is very pleasant. With an e-bike, the hill stops being a problem.
- On foot: if you're staying around El Pilar, you can walk there. It's a long but easy walk, between dry stone walls, juniper trees and fields.
If you use a sat nav, just search for "Far de la Mola". The approximate coordinates are 38.66 N, 1.58 E.
When to go: sunrise, sunset or full moon
This is the question we're asked most, and the answer depends on what you're after.
- At sunrise: our favourite time. As it's the easternmost point of the island, the sun rises right in front of the lighthouse, over the sea. There's hardly anyone around and the silence is complete.
- At sunset: the most popular time. The light on the cliffs is beautiful, but in summer quite a few people gather. If you go, arrive early.
- At night: with almost no light pollution, the sky over La Mola is spectacular. On full moon nights, watching the moon rise over the sea from the lighthouse is something you won't forget.
- Outside high season: in May, June, September and October you enjoy the lighthouse differently, with more calm and very pleasant temperatures.
Tips for enjoying La Mola lighthouse
- Respect the cliff edge. The drop is very high and there are no railings anywhere in the area. With children, hold hands.
- Bring a layer. It's often windy up there and it cools down at dusk, even in summer.
- Combine it with El Pilar de la Mola. Before or after the lighthouse, it's worth stopping in the village for a drink. In season, there's a craft market on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons.
- Don't rush. The lighthouse isn't a ten-minute visit: sit down, look at the sea and let the time pass.
Staying near the lighthouse
If you want to see the sunrise at the lighthouse without getting up too early, the most practical thing is to stay in La Mola. Our house, Can Javi de Palma, is about 800 metres from the centre of El Pilar de la Mola, a few minutes from the lighthouse. It's our family home: three double bedrooms, a pool, garden and a big barbecue for dinners outdoors, for up to six adults (tourist licence ET6047). If you'd like to get to know it, we'll be happy to show it to you.
FAQ
Can you go inside La Mola lighthouse?
The building houses a cultural space with a permanent exhibition. Opening hours vary through the year, so it's worth checking them before you go.
How long does it take to get to the lighthouse from La Savina?
La Savina, where the ferries from Ibiza arrive, is at the other end of the island. By car, the drive crosses Formentera from end to end and takes just over half an hour.
Is it better to go at sunrise or sunset?
Sunrise is quieter and the sun comes up right in front of the lighthouse. Sunset has beautiful light, but draws more people, especially in summer.
Is it safe to go with children?
Yes, as long as they stay well away from the cliff edge, which has no barrier.
To discover more of the island, have a look at our page about Formentera island.
