Beaches Archives - Majorca Tourist Information

Port de Soller

Port de Soller – updated 30 January 2023.

Port de Soller is a picturesque coastal village located in the north-west of the island of Majorca, in a large and protected horseshoe bay separated from the rest of the island by the Tramuntana mountain range. With its stunning natural beauty, charming architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Picturesque harbour

One of the main attractions in Port de Soller is its picturesque harbour, surrounded by lush green hills, and crystal-clear waters. The harbour is home to many fishing boats and yachts and visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the harbour, admiring the views, or stop at one of the many seafood restaurants for a delicious meal.

Church and lighthouse

In addition to its natural beauty, Port de Soller is also famous for its historic architecture, including the church of Sant Bartomeu and the lighthouse of Sa Torre. The church, built in the 17th century, is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, and the lighthouse, which dates back to the 19th century, provides panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline.

Outdoor activities

For those looking for a more active experience, Port de Soller offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and kayaking. There are several trails in the surrounding hills and mountains, which are perfect for exploring the local flora and fauna.

Soller tunnel

Before the Soller tunnel opened in the 1990s, Port de Soller was a difficult place to get to with cars having to travel via the Coll de Soller with tight hairpins every 200m or so. This road is now a popular cycling route with little traffic, especially since the tunnel has not been subject to a toll charge since 2018.

Fishing port charm

The isolated location of Port de Soller at the foot of the mountains and the use of the area as a training base by the Spanish military resulted in the village coming through the over development of seaside destinations in Mallorca during the 70s and 80s relatively unscathed and it retains its traditional fishing port charm.

Pirates

The village’s main role historically was to service the main town of Soller located a few miles inland and to protect its residents from pirates. During the 19^th century when the export of oranges and lemons grown in the area became very profitable, the port expanded significantly and just a decade or so ago, millions of euros were poured into sprucing up the port.

Es Firó

In 1561, Soller’s beach was invaded by fleets of Turkish and Algerian pirates. The town’s residents managed to defeat the pirates using just using wooden swords and hand-held catapults. This epic defence is re-enacted each year in a festival called Es Firó.

Restaurants

The horseshoe bay has a sandy beach and a pedestrianised promenade with many cafes, restaurants and shops in addition to a few hotels, many of the restaurants serve seafood; however, there are more and more high-class eateries opening in the port due mainly to the opening of a 5-star luxury hotel on the hills above the village.

Vintage tram

Soller is an old Mediterranean town, designed around narrow streets with traditional style residential townhouses and is very popular with tourists & day trippers. The town is connected to Port de Soller by a vintage tram, the Tranvía De Sóller; which takes passengers on a lovely journey through citrus and olive groves.

Tren de Sóller

Even if you are only on the island for a short time, the narrow-gauge, Tren de Sóller journey from Palma to Soller should be close to the top on your things-to-do list. One of the most rewarding excursions on the island, the vintage train to Soller is a very popular attraction with a journey time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Orange Express

Sometimes known as the Orange Express, the wooden train was originally introduced to transport oranges and lemons from the Soller valley to the capital, replacing a stagecoach service, which crossed the high mountains via the Soller pass on a steep, narrow dirt track, which was exhausting and tediously slow.

Funded by profits of the citrus fruit trade, the Tren de Soller has trundled along the winding 27.3km route to Soller since 1912.

Must-visit destination

In conclusion, Port de Soller is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Majorca. With its stunning natural beauty, charming architecture, and lively atmosphere, it offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for a relaxing holiday or an adventure-filled escape. So why not pack your bags and head to Port de Soller today!

Port de Soller tours & attractions

fishing port lemons oranges pirates Tren de Sóller vintage tram

The Mallorca Insider

January 30, 2023

Portals Nous (Oratori) Beach

Portals Nous Beach

Oratori beach – updated 25 January 2023.

Oratori Beach in Portals Nous, Majorca, is a stunningly beautiful spot that offers a unique beach experience. Featuring crystal-clear waters, soft, golden sand, and a peaceful atmosphere, this beach is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Whether you’re looking for a place to sunbathe, take a dip in the ocean, or simply take in the incredible scenery, Oratori Beach has something for everyone. Come for a relaxing day in the sun and enjoy all the wonders that this beach has to offer.

Make sure that you check out Roxy’s Beach Bar, a favourite spot for locals and expats.

Blue Flag Beach

Oratori is a Blue Flag beach located between Puerto Portals and the small community of Bendinat in the southwest of the island. The beach is very popular with the younger crowd due to its proximity to Portals and the associated foodie and nightlife scene. The beach is also popular with families because of the superb nearby amenities and facilities.

Golden sand

You’ve got 250m of golden sand, clear blue seas and even an island to swim to. Facilities include sun loungers and parasols, showers and toilets and lifeguards.

Water sports

There are also water sports available, which includes paddle boats and kayaks that you can rent.

Expats & locals

You’ll find an eclectic mix of nationalities at Oratori. The beach is particularly attractive to British and German expats and locals – which is a good indicator of how fantastic the beach is. It is also popular with yachties who moor their yachts at the marina and come ashore to sunbathe and eat in the many restaurants.

Restaurants

For foodies, Puerto Portals offers an excellent choice with varied menus and venues. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner on sunny terraces watching the expensive cars drive by or choose a Mediterranean lounge setting or a salon.

Getting to Oratori

The easiest way to drive to the beach is via the MA-1 that runs from Palma all the way through to Andratx. Take the Costa d’en Blanes-Portals Nous exit and then follow signs to Portals Nous.

Finding a parking space can be hit or miss and you’re probably end up having to take a bit of a walk from your car to the beach. Public transport may be your best option.

Out on the water experiences

Beaches Portals Nous

The Mallorca Insider

January 25, 2023

Sa Calobra Beach

Sa Calobra

Sa Calobra Beach – updated 25 January 2023.

Sa Calobra Beach in Majorca is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique and breath-taking experience. This secluded spot is surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal clear waters, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and tranquillity. Whether you're looking to sunbathe on the sandy shore, take a dip in the Mediterranean, or explore the rugged terrain, Sa Calobra Beach has something for everyone. So pack your bags and come discover this beautiful piece of paradise.

Sa Calobra is a well-known remote cove on the west coast of Mallorca situated a short walk away from the incredible rocky river gorge, Es Torrent de Pareis.

Famous spot

It is a small and undeniably attractive white-pebble cove with blue-green crystal-clear water and is one of the most famous spots on the island.

Two beaches

There are two beaches in the cove, the first one is small and stony and is not the beach that everyone comes to see, that can be found by taking the paved path on the right-hand-side, which takes you through a short and narrow tunnel.

No facilities

If you are planning to stay at the beach for a while, you’ll need to bring along some things to make you comfortable as there are no facilities there including a lifeguard. You will find bars and restaurants back at Sa Calobra where you will also find public toilets and first aid.

Inspiration to artists

The spot is indeed lovely and has served as an inspiration to artists past and present; however, it has become a victim of its own beauty. There are just too many tourists there and it's a coach & car-fest during the summer crush.

Red Beard

The beach has a history dating back to the 18th century and it is even rumoured that the infamous pirate Red Beard docked in Sa Calobra.

Twisting roads

Tourists flock to this location in their hundreds all year around to admire the jaw-dropping scenery and to enjoy the incredible journey there with its twisting roads and spectacular views.

Knotted Tie

With an 800m descent over 12km and the infamous 270-degree loop known as the ‘Knotted Tie’ and incredible mountain views of Mallorca’s highest mountain, Puig Major, the road to Sa Calobra is an adventure in its own right.

Es Torrent de Pareis was elevated to the category of Natural Monument in 2003 by the Government of the Balearic Islands.

Tours

Full day Majorca Tour with Port de Soller and Sa Calobra

There's something really special about this trip to northern Majorca – the way in which you go sightseeing is part of the adventure. That's because you'll travel by coach, train, tram and boat during our exclusive excursion through Soller, Port de Soller, Sa Calobra and Lluc. What's more, you'll have an in-the-know local to show you around. Juan, one of our guides, says, ‘I was born and bred in Majorca, and have lived in the Soller region for years. You'll see special places that most visitors miss out on.'

Hop on the century-old Soller train – think antique wooden carriages with brass fittings – and zigzag your way through the pine-clad Tramuntana Mountains, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's an experience oozing nostalgia. And as the train is electric, it's a more sustainable way to travel. There's also a trip on a tram linking Soller and Port de Soller, during which you'll pass through orange groves and narrow tracks behind homes. And if you want some insider tips, your local guide can recommend the top restaurants for a real taste of the island's cuisine.

With free time to find lunch, it's a great opportunity to sample the produce Soller is famous for – oranges, ice cream and the highly regarded red Soller prawns. The journey from Port de Soller to Sa Calobra is by catamaran. You'll have a little while to unwind on this impossibly beautiful beach, which is hemmed in by cliffs. Further in is the rocky gorge of Torrent de Pareis – nature at its rawest – Book now

Out on the water experiences

Beaches Driving Sa Calobra Beach

The Mallorca Insider

January 25, 2023

Cala Marçal

Cala Marcal Beach

Cala Marcal – updated 24 January 2023.

Cala Marçal is known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. The Cala Marçal beach is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun, while the nearby cliffs offer a beautiful view of the sea. This Blue Flag spacious beach is located on the eastern coast of the island 1km south of the marina and village of Portocolom.

Protected bay

The 500 m beach lies within a beautiful well-protected bay with rocks on both sides, fine white sand and clear waters. It is very popular, particularly during the summer months when it can get quite crowded.

Lighthouse

One of the main attractions in Cala Marçal is the lighthouse, which was built in 1857 and offers a panoramic view of the town and the sea. Visitors can also explore the nearby caves, which are home to a variety of marine life. The area is also popular for scuba diving and fishing.

Ideal for families

Cala Marcal is ideal for families. The soft sand slopes into the sea, which is shallow and deepens gradually providing lots of space for the kids to swim and play.

Facilities

On the beach, you will find all of the facilities you could need such as sun lounges, parasols, showers and toilets and during the summer peak season, the beach is also supervised by a lifeguard. There is also one large beach bar serving a good assortment of drinks and snacks.

Snorkelling

Cala Marcal is popular with snorkelers because of the rocks but mostly, this is a beach for families, it is very safe and around the beach you will find everything you could need including shops, bars & restaurants.

Taking the car to Cala Marcal is easy, parking is available in the streets just south of the beach.

Portocolom

The local village of Portocolom is a sleepy, attractive traditional fishing village located on the east coast and is claimed rather dubiously as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, although there is little evidence to support this.

Resisting the usual tourist onslaught associated with picturesque coastal villages, Portocolom is a maritime town located on a beautiful deep natural harbour in a large horseshoe-shaped bay.

In addition to the beach, Portocolom is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars where you can enjoy local cuisine and nightlife. The village also has a rich history and culture, and there are several monuments and landmarks to explore such as the church of Sant Antoni de Portmany and the lighthouse of Portocolom.

Fishing village charm

Lying 12km north of Cala d’Or and within the district of Felanitx, Portocolom has retained much of its traditional fishing village charm with fishing boats, sailing boats and the occasional luxury motor yacht anchored in the calm waters of the bay.

Out on the water experiences

Beaches Cala d’Or Cala Marcal family-friendly Portocolom snorkelling

The Mallorca Insider

January 24, 2023

Cala Deia

Cala Deia Beach

Cala Deia – updated 23 January 2023.

Cala Deia, located on the northwest coast of Majorca, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a peaceful and secluded getaway. The small bay is surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.

Rocky beach

The beach is not considered to be family-friendly due to the rocky, shingle beach and lack of sand; it also has multiple jellyfish sightings during the summer months. The beach also has no umbrellas, lounge chairs, water sports activities or lifeguard and access to first aid is minimal. The beach does have toilets and showers.

The tiny cove beach is mostly made up of large rocks and small pebbles with glistening rock pools and great views.

Restaurants

It has two restaurants, which both provide local cuisine such as tapas, paella and an assortment of fish.

Artists

Located just outside the beautiful village of Deià, the beach is very popular with locals and visitors and is a favourite destination for artists. It is not unusual to see the occasional celebrity on the beach.

Swimming, snorkelling & diving

Cala Deia is an ideal location for swimming, snorkelling and diving due to the crystal-clear waters; however, there are no equipment rental facilities on the beach so you will need to bring your own.

Climbing, hiking & cycling

The surrounding cliffs are popular with climbers and hikers, offering stunning views of the bay and the surrounding countryside. The area is also popular with cyclists and mountain bikers, with a number of trails and routes to explore.

Getting there

You can get to the beach by car and if you arrive early enough, there is a small car park or you could park in the village and walk, it is around 3 km.

Deia

The village of Deia, located above the bay, is also worth a visit. The small village is home to a number of traditional restaurants and bars, serving local food and drink. Visitors can also explore the local history and culture by visiting the local church or the artists' houses that dot the village. One of the prettiest villages in Mallorca, Deia is part of a landscape awarded World Heritage Site status. The writer Robert Graves famously lived in the village twice with many of his creative, artistic friends coming to visit and Deia quickly gained a reputation as an artist’s retreat.

Northwest coast

Cala Deia is also a great base for exploring the rest of the northwest coast of Majorca, with a number of other beaches and villages within easy reach. Cala Tuent, Cala Soller and Fornalutx are just a few of the many nearby places worth visiting.

Tours & experiences

Beaches Cala Deia diving snorkelling Swimming

The Mallorca Insider

January 23, 2023

Cala Llombards

Cala Llombards Beach

Cala Llombards – updated 23 January 2023.

Cala Llombards beach is a hidden gem located on the southern coast of Majorca. Known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, Cala Llombards beach is the perfect destination for those looking for a relaxing and peaceful beach break. With a variety of water sports available, such as snorkelling and paddle-boarding, as well as a range of local restaurants and bars, Cala Llombards beach offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or explore the surrounding area, Cala Llombards is the ideal spot for a day on the beach.

Picture-postcard setting

The beach is located in a beautiful petite cove with turquoise waters defined by rough, red rock walls and framed with pine trees.

Es Llombards

The secluded cove beach is located in the southeast of the island close to the small village of Es Llombards and around 10km from the handsome inland town of Santyani.

Snorkelling

Just 55m long but nearly 150m deep, Cala Llombards is not a big beach, but it is truly beautiful. It is surrounded by steep cliffs and has rocky areas, pine trees and bushes plus soft white sand and really crystal-clear water, which is ideal for snorkelling.

Off the beaten path

With the exception of those who live or rent in the surrounding area, the beach is not well-known and therefore it escapes the tourist crowds.

Family friendly

It is a safe beach for kids because there are very few waves and is popular with locals and tourists of all ages. There is a lifeguard present during the summer months.

Facilities

Facilities include lounge chairs and parasols plus showers and toilets; however, there are no water activities for hire.

Beach bar

You’ll find just one beach bar at Cala Llombards; which serves drinks and snacks.

Santyani

When you’ve packed up from the beach, we recommend a trip to the local town of Santyani, it’s a handsome town in southeast Mallorca. Both serene and historic, it is located between Parc Natural de Mondragó and Ses Salines and the honey-coloured architecture, fine choice of bars, boutique shops, art galleries & restaurants are a massive draw to tourists.

Particularly favoured by German tourists, this pretty, rural, authentically Mallorcan town is blessed with beautiful natural surroundings.

With a slow pace of life, quaint cobbled streets and majestic church, Santyani has a special quality. Sit down on one of the many terraces on the main square (Plaça Major) in front of the church and watch the world go by.

Out on the water experiences

Beaches Cala Llombards Es Llombards Santyani snorkelling

The Mallorca Insider

January 23, 2023

Paseo Maritimo

Paseo Maritimo – updated 14 February 2023.

Paseo Maritimo is a beautiful waterfront promenade in Palma, Majorca. Located on the south coast of the island, the promenade runs along the edge of the sea, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean and the city skyline.

The Paseo Maritimo stretches for over four kilometers and is lined with palm trees, parks, and a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. The promenade is a popular spot for walking, jogging, cycling, and rollerblading, and is a hub of activity both day and night.

Avinguda Gabriel Roca

Also known as Avinguda Gabriel Roca, this 4 km stretch of promenade is the most popular walk in the city. There is so much to see along the way such as the wonderful harbour with row after row of yachts, Palma Cathedral, Bellver Castle and the stunning Mediterranean Sea framed by pink sunrises or golden sunsets.

What to see

The recommended starting point for a walk along Paseo Maritimo is Porto Pi. You’ll pass a number of attractions such as Tito’s; which is the hottest club in town (some would say, on the island) and Palma’s Auditorium; where you can watch shows and concerts and towards the end of your walk, you’ll pass the 16^th century wall around Es Baluard Museum. The final part of the 4km walk includes the Royal Palace of La Almudaina and the magnificent ‘La Seu’.

Parc de la Mar

Forty plus years ago, the sea came right up to the walls of the Cathedral until the sea was pushed back in the 1970’s due to construction. City planners created an artificial lake called Parc de la Mar at the foot of La Seu, which today provides a great area for concerts and fairs plus a superb photograph opportunity.

The beach

Just beyond the cathedral at Ca’n Pere Antoni, is Palma City Beach. It is a golden, sandy beach that is very popular with the locals and visitors who are staying in Palma and fancy a quick dip in the sea.

Playa de Palma

From Palma City Beach, the wide pedestrian promenade joins the popular resorts of C’an Pastilla to El Arenal, this part of the seafront is known collectively as Playa de Palma. Look out for the ‘Balnearios’; which are a series of open-air huts serving drinks and snacks.

Each year the Paseo Maritimo becomes alive due to the Palma International Boat Show; which takes place at Moll Vell, close to La Lonja and central Palma.

Overall, the Paseo Maritimo is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Palma, Majorca. Whether you’re looking for a scenic walk, a night out on the town, or a peaceful retreat, the promenade offers something for everyone. So, take a stroll along the Paseo Maritimo and experience the beauty and charm of Palma, Majorca for yourself.

Things to do in Palma

Paseo Marítimo

The Mallorca Insider

September 22, 2020

Seafront Promenade

Seafront Promenade – updated 14 February 2023.

Palma, the capital city of Majorca, is home to one of the most beautiful seafront promenades in Europe. The seafront promenade of Palma, Majorca is a magnificent destination where visitors can enjoy stunning views, refreshing sea breeze, and warm sunshine. It is a perfect place to relax, unwind and soak up the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.

The seafront promenade in Palma actually starts from the military port near Port Pi and stretches all the way to Palma Airport. A 4 km section of this is the Paseo Maritimo. This article looks at the part of the promenade that is not on the Paseo Maritimo.

The promenade with its fantastic sea views is extremely popular for walkers, joggers, roller-skaters, skateboarders and cyclists. There are lots of bars, restaurants, cafes and shops to stop at when you need a break, there is also a mini train that chugs along the promenade for those that are feeling less active.

One of the most impressive features of the seafront promenade in Palma, Majorca, is its stunning sunset views. The sky is painted in beautiful shades of red and orange, and the sea reflects the warm colours of the setting sun. It is a breath-taking view that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Cathedral

With Palma Cathedral as a backdrop, Palma City Beach has incredible views, it also has a Blue Flag award for cleanliness.

Beach

Being located in Palma, the 750m long and 15m wide beach can get very busy during the summer season so the advice is to get there early to claim your piece of sand. If it is too busy, don’t worry, there is another beach just 1/2km further along at Portixol.

Playa de Palma

From Palma City Beach, the wide pedestrian promenade joins the popular resorts of C'an Pastilla to El Arenal, this part of the seafront is known collectively as Playa de Palma. Look out for the ‘Balnearios’; which are a series of open-air huts serving drinks and snacks.

C'an Pastilla is a purpose-built tourist resort and is ideal for family holidays.

El Arenal

El Arenal is located on the eastern end of the 6 km long Playa de Palma about 15 km away from Palma and around 7km from the airport. It is a very popular resort particularly for the 18 to 30 crowd and is predominantly German.

Tourist attractions

Playa de Palma has a few attractions including Aqualand El Arenal, a waterpark with wave pools, artificial rivers and water slides a plenty and Palma Aquarium; which is one of the finest in Europe and has an excellent reputation for its marine research, conservation and preservation programs. The aquarium has a very impressive display of live coral and many of the corals that you will see have been breed within the premises.

Nightlife

Nightlife in Playa De Palma revolves around two main areas, the Mega Park near El Arenal and a party street named Carrer Padre Bartolome Salva (known as ‘Bar Street’) in the resort area of Les Meravelles.

Oktoberfest

Nightlife in Playa De Palma steps up at the end of summer when Mega Park hosts it’s classic Oktoberfest celebrations where visitors can get a taste of German food and drink while dancing away to all the classic Oktoberfest tunes. It is a fun celebration that tries hard to match Oktoberfest in Munich.

Things to do in Palma

Palma Seafront Promenade

The Mallorca Insider

September 22, 2020

Palma City Beach

Palma Beach

Palma City Beach – updated 14 February 2023.

Palma City Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline located in the heart of Palma, Majorca. With crystal-clear waters, soft golden sands, and a vibrant atmosphere, this beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Located just a few minutes’ walk from the city center, Palma City Beach is easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transport. The beach offers a range of amenities, including sun loungers, parasols, showers, and changing rooms, making it a comfortable and convenient spot for a day out.

Incredible views

One of the unique features of Palma City Beach is the stunning backdrop of the city skyline. The beach provides a panoramic view of the historic city center, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria and the Bellver Castle. At sunset, the view is particularly breath-taking, with the golden hues of the sky reflecting off the water.

Two sections

The beach is split into two sections – the western end, known as Can Pere Antoni, is a more lively area with a variety of bars and restaurants nearby. The eastern end, known as Ciudad Jardín, is a quieter and more family-friendly area, with plenty of space for children to play.

The beach is also known for its water sports activities, including jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing. For those who prefer a more relaxing day out, there are plenty of opportunities to simply soak up the sun, take a dip in the sea, or enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the many beachside cafes.

Beach clubs

You’ll find everything that you need there including toilets, showers, lifeguards, sunbeds and parasol hire plus a good selection of bars and restaurants including two beach clubs, which provide top-notch food and entertainment.

Bay of Palma

Being close to the Bay of Palma and the numerous ships and boats that travel these waterways, the water at the beach is not as clean as it is in some of the island’s more remote bays; however, it is perfectly OK for swimming

A promenade called Avenida Gabriel Roca and a cycle path run along the length of the beach and there are two small car parks at either end of Ca’n Pere Antoni, which fill up quite quickly.

Palma Cathedral

The vast, beautiful and historic Palma Cathedral (‘La Seu’ in Catalan) is without question, the major architectural landmark in the capital city. The awesome predominantly Gothic 14th century structure is located in the heart of the city and the sheer scale of the golden sandstone building makes it impossible to miss. Climbing high above the old city walls, the cathedral is the glory of Palma, a magnificent demonstration of the wealth and strength of the island’s Christian conquerors, from the sea, it is a superb sight.

Overall, Palma City Beach is a fantastic destination for those looking to combine a beach holiday with a city break. The combination of sun, sea, and city provides a unique and unforgettable experience, and one that should not be missed when visiting Palma, Majorca. So, pack your sunscreen and head to Palma City Beach for a day of fun, relaxation, and unforgettable views.

Tours & experiences

Playa de Palma Parasailing Ticket with Life & Sea

Packed with beautiful beaches, bays and a shining city skyline, Palma is spectacular seen from the ground – but even better from above. Get a different perspective on Majorca with this exciting parasailing experience. Soar up to 50m above the waves and feel the wind in your hair as you enjoy 10-minutes of incredible views from the air – Book now

Out on the water experiences

bay of Palma beach clubs Palma Palma cathedral Palma City Beach

The Mallorca Insider

September 22, 2020

Tranvia de Soller

Tranvia de Soller – updated 18 October 2022

The Tranvia de Soller (Tranvía de Sóller) is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Mallorca. It is a tram nicknamed ‘red lightning’; which connects the beautiful town of Sóller with the Port de Sóller district. The tramway was built in 1913 and has been in continuous operation since then, making it one of the oldest tramways in the world.

Red Lightning

We’re not sure why the tram is referred to as ‘red lightning’, it is neither red, nor very fast. The trams are orange in colour with wooden framed windows, open-sided wagons and wooden benches. The tramline opened in 1913 and some of the railcars and carriages used today date back to this period of time.

Picturesque route

The Tranvia de Soller is known for its picturesque route, which passes through the heart of the scenic Serra de Tramuntana mountains. The tramway runs along a 12-kilometer track and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including orange groves, olive groves, and the Bay of Soller.

Plaza de la Constitución

The journey from Sóller to the port takes around 15 minutes and passes through Plaza de la Constitución; which is the main square in Sóller and is a very popular meeting place for both locals and tourists. The tram passes cafes and bars with outside seating areas, and you are so close to the tables, it is possible to see what people are eating and drinking.

From the square, Tranvia de Soller passes by numerous orange groves and the old port facilities before reaching its destination.

History

The tramway is also famous for its historic rolling stock, which includes original tramcars from the early 20th century. The tramcars are equipped with wooden seats and overhead fans, giving passengers a glimpse into the past.

The history of the Tranvia de Soller is closely linked to that of the Tren de Sóller (the railway line that has connected Sóller with the island’s capital Palma de Mallorca since 1912 with the tramline opening in 1913 as an extension of the route.

Dual function

Initially, the rail cars served the dual function of transporting both people and goods. Freshly caught seafood was transported one way with coal and ammunition being transported in the other direction to resupply the former submarine and naval base at Port de Sóller.

One of the most unique features of the Tranvia de Soller is its hybrid power system, which allows the tramway to operate both on electricity and on diesel fuel. This system was introduced in the 1980s and allows the tramway to operate even when there is a power outage.

Tourist attraction

In addition to its scenic route and historic rolling stock, the Tranvia de Soller is also popular for its cultural significance. It is a symbol of the town of Soller and its rich history, and it is also a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world.

The Tranvia de Soller is not just a mode of transportation, but it is also an experience. The scenic ride, the historic tramcars, and the unique hybrid power system all contribute to the overall experience of riding the Tranvia de Soller. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique and memorable experience, the Tranvia de Soller is definitely worth checking out.

Port de Sóller

Port de Sóller is a very pretty coastal village located in a large and protected horseshoe bay separated from the rest of Mallorca by the Tramuntana mountain range.

For further information about the tram, please visit the official website.