EXCURSION TO PALMA BY TRAIN

The Sóller Railway is undoubtedly one of the most iconic gems of Mallorca. Inaugurated in 1912, it was created with the purpose of connecting the Sóller Valley with the capital and facilitating the transport of Sóller oranges and the textile industry for export from Palma. More than a century later, it still follows its original route: 27 kilometers of narrow-gauge track crossing the Serra de Tramuntana through its thirteen tunnels, bridges, and viaducts—true masterpieces of engineering such as Els Cinc Ponts. But what truly makes the Sóller Railway special is not only its layout, but its historical character. Thanks to the continuous care it has received over the years, today it still preserves the same appearance it had at its inauguration: wooden carriages, golden details, and that elegant atmosphere of the early railway journeys. This is why experiencing the magical corners of the Serra de Tramuntana on its way to Palma is something we recommend 100%!

SECTION 1: FROM SÓLLER TO BUNYOLA

The experience begins just a few minutes’ walk from the Gran Hotel Sóller, at the Sóller Railway Station, located in Plaça d’Espanya, right in the heart of town. This emblematic casal, known as Can Mayol, houses a cultural treasure that we highly recommend visiting: the Miró and Picasso Ceramics rooms, managed by the Tren de l’Art Foundation. These two permanent exhibitions bring together original works by Joan Miró and Pablo Picasso, two of the greatest artistic geniuses of the 20th century, and can be visited free of charge.

After our first stop, it’s time to begin the journey and board the historic Sóller Train. The moment we step onto the platform, we are immersed in a journey back in time: wooden details, brass fittings, and windows that open to let in the mountain breeze, all preserved exactly as they were at its inauguration, along with leather seats that evoke another era. As we travel, the train winds its way through orange groves, centuries-old olive trees, almond trees, and unique landscapes such as those seen from the Ca’n Tambor stop and the Pujol d’en Banya viewpoint, where you can enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the Sóller valley and Puig Major.

We will then cross one of the most spectacular points of the entire route: the Els Cinc Ponts viaduct. Depending on the time of year, the train may stop here so passengers can admire the scenery and take photographs. After this point, we enter the “Cinc-cents” tunnel—about 500 meters long—before reaching a section of curves and slopes that takes us through the Túnel Major, the longest of the thirteen tunnels along the way. This nearly 3-kilometer tunnel leads us to the highest point of the route until, upon leaving it behind, we arrive at the charming village of Bunyola, located at the foot of the Serra d’Alfàbia.

SECTION 2: FROM BUNYOLA TO PALMA

From the Bunyola station, which remains exactly as it was when it was built, we continue our journey with a gentle descent toward the plains, leaving behind the mountainous landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana and entering rural areas filled with almond trees, carob trees, and traditional Mallorcan estates, passing through Caubet, Son Reus, Son Sardina, and Santa Maria. After approximately 55 minutes from our departure in Sóller, we arrive at Palma Station, located next to Plaza de España, the city’s central hub.

STROLL THROUGH PALMA

After our arrival, we can enjoy the center of Palma, exploring its shopping streets and old town. Streets such as Sant Miquel—a picturesque street located right next to Plaza de España—offer countless fashion and accessory shops and lead us to Plaça Major, located near Palma’s Principal Theatre and the famous Bar Bosch, next to Plaça de Ses Tortugues. We can also choose to visit the Mercado del Olivar, a 5-minute walk from Plaça Major, where you will find all kinds of local gastronomic products. After visiting the market, we can enjoy a coffee at Bar Tulsa, located in the same square, a spot full of character and history—with the fun fact that its owners are from Sóller. After coffee, we can continue our walk along Calle Velázquez, one of Palma’s most historic shopping streets, home to textile shops of various kinds, and then continue toward Palma Cathedral, La Seu.

Located next to Parc de la Mar and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, the cathedral can be followed by a pleasant return stroll to Plaça de Ses Tortugues via the Passeig del Born, located just 8 minutes away. Thanks to stores like Louis Vuitton, this avenue has become known as the “designer street,” also referred to as the “golden mile.” After this visit, we can choose one of the many nearby restaurants for lunch. However, if you want to enjoy an authentic Mallorcan gastronomic experience, we recommend dining at Celler Sa Premsa, located in Plaça Patins, close to Plaça d’Espanya and the Sóller Railway Station.

RETURN TO THE SÓLLER VALLEY

After our day exploring Palma, we return to the Sóller Railway Station to head back to the Gran Hotel Sóller aboard the Sóller Train, enjoying the sunset as we cross the Serra de Tramuntana. However, those who prefer to stay longer in Palma can return via the TIB 204 bus service from the Intermodal Station, connecting Palma with Sóller in approximately 45 minutes with frequent service throughout the day—a faster and more economical alternative. A taxi is also an option: comfortable, direct, and offering more schedule flexibility, especially if you wish to make the most of your day in the capital or explore areas beyond Plaça Espanya.

Whichever option you choose, we recommend checking timetables for both the Sóller Railway and the TIB 204 bus in advance, as they may vary depending on the season. Finally, once back at the Gran Hotel Sóller, you can end a day full of history, culture, tradition, and gastronomy with dinner at Ca’n Blau Restaurant—an experience that will undoubtedly be the perfect finishing touch to your day in one of Mallorca’s most magical destinations.

If you are staying at our hotel and would like more information about the Sóller Railway or Palma, please do not hesitate to ask our reception team, who will be delighted to help you!