Palma: Tramuntana Full-Day Tour with Sóller Train and Lunch

The Palma: Tramuntana Full-Day Tour with Sóller Train and Lunch offers a captivating look at Mallorca’s stunning landscapes and cultural spots in just one day. Priced at $221 per person and lasting around 8 hours, this tour is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive experience of the island’s scenic beauty and charming towns. The journey starts from Palma, where a bilingual guide leads you through an itinerary packed with historic railways, mountain vistas, and local flavors.

This tour stands out with a ride on the historic “Red Lightning” train from Palma to Sóller, plus a scenic minibus trip along the Tramuntana mountains. It also includes stops in Deia and Valldemossa, offering a mix of natural beauty, artistic history, and delicious food. Although the tour is intensive, it is well-organized and suitable for travelers eager to see Mallorca’s highlights without a car.

Key Points

• Includes a ride on the historic “Red Lightning” train from Palma to Sóller.
• Scenic minibus journey along the Tramuntana mountain panorama road.
• Visit to Deia and Valldemossa, two iconic Mallorcan villages.
• A traditional tapas lunch with a non-alcoholic drink is part of the experience.
• Small group size limited to 8 participants ensures a more personal experience.
• The tour is approximately 8 hours long, starting early or later depending on availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Palma’s Starting Point for the Tramuntana Adventure

This tour begins at the Carrer Eusebio Estada 1 in Palma, in front of the “Tren de Sòller” train station. No need to queue or buy tickets separately, as the guide will meet you there with all tickets prepared. The small group ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention from the guide.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward. Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, as there are walking sections in Sóller, Deia, and Valldemossa. Large bags and pets are not permitted, but assistance dogs are welcome.

Ride on the Historic “Red Lightning” from Palma to Sóller

The highlight for many is the train ride on the “Red Lightning”, Mallorca’s most famous historic railway. The train travels through fieldsof almond and fig trees, crossing tunnels and hairpin bends, winding from the plains into the Tramuntana mountains.

The about 1 hour and 15 minutes journey showcases orange groves and olive trees, with views of grazing sheep and traditional farms. It’s a relaxing way to start the day and offers a glimpse of Mallorca’s rural life from over 100 years ago.

The train route concludes in Sóller, where you can explore the town’s Modernist architecture and enjoy the lively market atmosphere. The free time in Sóller is ideal for sampling local orange ice cream at the Fet-a-Sóller cooperative or browsing the shops.

Scenic Drive Along the Tramuntana Mountains

From Sóller, a minibus ride takes travelers along the Panoramic Road through the Tramuntana mountains, passing bays, cliffs, and olive groves. This part of the tour lasts about 25 minutes and provides sweeping views of the coastline and mountain peaks.

The route includes a stop at the Son Bleda pass, behind which the mountain scenery stretches as far as the eye can see. The drive offers plenty of opportunities to take photos of rocky cliffs, coastal bays, and village landscapes.

Exploring Deia’s Artistic and Spiritual Atmosphere

After the mountain drive, the tour reaches Deia, a small village famous for its quiet beauty and artistic legacy. Visitors are encouraged to wander at their own pace through this tranquil place, renowned for its culturally rich atmosphere.

Highlights include the cemetery and the hilltop church, which are both steeped in spirituality and offer spectacular views. The village’s calm ambiance makes it an ideal spot to relax amid Mediterranean gardens and traditional stone houses.

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Visiting Valldemossa’s Historic Charms

Next, the journey continues to Valldemossa, a picturesque town with a famous monastery where Chopin once lived. The Carthusian cloister is a key site, and visitors can explore the museum of painter Josep Coll Bardolet.

The town’s narrow streets are filled with boutiques, cafes, and gardens full of orange and lemon trees. Tour participants have free time here to stroll through, enjoy local treats, or visit the church on the hill for panoramic views across valleys and mountains.

Traditional Tapas Lunch in Sóller

In Sóller itself, the tour offers a delicious tapas lunch at a traditional Spanish restaurant, with a non-alcoholic drink included. The meal features various tapas, providing a taste of local cuisine in a cozy setting.

Optional tram ride from Sóller to Port de Sóller costs €10 per person, payable on the day. The tram journey takes approximately 25 minutes, passing olive and lemon groves along a car-free promenade with scenic views of the harbor.

Port de Sóller and Optional Tram Ride

Once in Port de Sóller, visitors can enjoy the long sandy beach and marina. The walk along the harbor promenade offers views of boats, cafes, and the beach.

Travelers can choose to take the tram from Sóller to Port de Sóller, which is an optional activity. This short ride provides a relaxed way to enjoy Mallorca’s coastline and is a charming addition to the day, though it costs $10 per person and is payable on the spot.

From Deia to Valldemossa and Back to Palma

After exploring Deia and Valldemossa, the journey back to Palma takes about 40 minutes. The route travels through olive groves and traditional villages, giving a final chance to enjoy Mallorca’s landscape from the comfort of a climate-controlled minibus.

This part of the trip is well-paced, offering perfect downtime after a busy morning of sightseeing. The total travel time, including the train, mountain drive, and bus, sums to roughly 3 hours of scenic transportation.

Final Summary of the Mallorca Scenic Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive view of Mallorca’s natural beauty, historic railway, and charming villages in just one day. The combination of train and mountain drive provides varied perspectives, from vintage rail travel to breathtaking mountain panoramas.

The small group setting ensures a personal experience, and knowledgeable guides like Michael and Sven elevate the trip with engaging commentary. The delicious tapas lunch and optional tram ride add local flavor, making this a well-rounded day trip.

While the train journey is over 100 years old, the bus replaces any route that cannot operate due to weather or technical issues, ensuring the tour’s continuity. This experience suits travelers looking for an active, scenic, and cultural day, especially those eager to explore Mallorca without renting a car.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the train ride on the “Red Lightning” included in the tour price?
Yes, the train ride from Palma to Soller is included, with all tickets provided by the guide.

Can I walk around Deia and Valldemossa freely?
Yes, the tour includes free time in both villages for personal exploration.

What is the cost of the optional tram ride?
The tram from Sóller to Port de Soller costs €10 per person, payable on the day.

How long does the entire bus journey take?
The bus ride from Deia to Valldemossa lasts about 20 minutes; the return to Palma takes approximately 40 minutes.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking in villages and standing during free time, but it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with sun protection and water for staying hydrated.

Are meals included?
Yes, a three-course tapas lunch with a non-alcoholic drink is part of the package.

Is there any age restriction?
No specific age restrictions are mentioned, but the small group size and walking may suit older children and adults better.

What happens if the train cannot operate?
The railway is run by a third-party provider. If it’s unavailable, the route is replaced by road transport, and the ticket cost is refunded.

How many people are in each group?
The tour groups are limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.

This tour offers a detailed, scenic, and culturally rich day for those wanting a well-organized way to see Mallorca’s mountains and villages, combining historic transport with stunning landscapes and delicious local food.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby