Mallorca: Formula Car and Buggy combo tour

Mallorca’s Formula Car and Buggy Combo Tour: A Thrilling Mix of Speed and Scenery

Taking a spin through Mallorca’s scenic Sierra de Tramontana on a combo tour of a slingshot and a buggy sounds like a perfect way to add a dash of adrenaline and authentic exploration to your vacation. This experience, offered by Formula Tours, promises not just fast-paced fun but also plenty of opportunities to admire the island’s stunning coastline and mountain views. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 37 reviews, it’s clear that most adventurers find this tour a worthwhile, memorable slice of Mallorca.

What I really like about this experience is the combination of driving two very different vehicles — the manual transmission, high-performance slingshot, and the easy-to-handle automatic buggy — which adds variety and keeps the adrenaline flowing. Plus, the stops along the way, especially the view at Es Grau in Estellencs, give you a chance to soak in the landscape that makes Mallorca so special. The fact that guides like “an explanation from your guide” and “beautiful views” are consistently praised suggests your safety and enjoyment are well taken care of.

One potential consideration is the price — at $67 per person, it offers good value given the guided experience, vehicle use, and scenic stops. However, note that there’s an additional €30 fee if you want insurance coverage for the driver, paid at the office. If you’re a confident driver, this extra expense might be worth considering for peace of mind, but it’s an extra step to keep in mind.

Key points / Takeaways

• Diverse vehicles: Drive both a manual slingshot and an automatic buggy, offering a varied, exciting experience.
• Scenic stops: Multiple viewpoints, especially in Es Grau, provide perfect photo opportunities of Mallorca’s coastline and mountains.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides in several languages, ensuring safety and local insights.
• Flexible stops: Between 2 and 3 stops depending on traffic and timing, allowing for photos and rest.
• Age and license requirements: Drivers must be at least 21 with a valid license for manual cars; copilots can be as young as 6.
• Comfort and safety gear: Helmets provided if necessary, and sunglasses are mandatory for protection from the sun during drives.

Exploring the Route: What Makes It Special?

Starting at Formula Tours’ garage, the tour begins with a brief explanation of how to handle both vehicles. The fact that the slingshot has a manual transmission means you should be comfortable driving a stick shift — a fun challenge if you’re used to automatics. From there, the route takes you along Mallorca’s coast near Calvia. Expect to pass key points of interest, offering glimpses of local charm and natural beauty.

Driving along the coast in the slingshot is a thrill — think open-air, wind-in-your-hair driving with the Mediterranean as your backdrop. The first stop in front of Isla Malgratz gives you a perfect opportunity to snap some photos of this picturesque island, which from the shoreline looks like a postcard.

Next, you’ll head toward Es Grau in Estellencs, where the main stop is. Here, the view of the coastline and the Sierra de Tramontana is simply stunning — rugged mountains meeting the sea, a view that’s worth every minute of the drive. This is where the vehicle switch takes place, allowing you to experience both the manual slingshot and the automatic buggy, catering to different driving preferences and skill levels.

From here, the journey continues toward Port Andratx, an upscale harbor area that’s both lively and scenic. The drive back offers a chance to see some of Mallorca’s mountain views and lush golf courses, rounding out a full, visually rewarding experience.

The estimated 2-hour duration means you get a good taste of Mallorca’s varied landscapes without feeling rushed. Depending on traffic, you’ll make 2-3 stops, which is a perfect balance for sightseeing and safety.

Vehicle Details and Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The vehicles are central to this experience. The slingshot is a head-turning, open-top, two-seater with a manual transmission, so only those comfortable with driving a stick should sign up. The buggy has automatic transmission, making it easier for those who prefer a more relaxed drive. This dual-vehicle setup adds a layer of fun and variety that many reviews highlight as a major plus.

Guides are multilingual — speaking German, English, Spanish, and French — which helps create an inclusive, informative atmosphere. The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small-group feel that allows for personalized attention and easier communication.

The cost of $67 per person covers fuel, taxes, guide, a bottle of water, and helmets if necessary. The optional insurance for the driver, costing €30, is paid at the office; if you’re confident in your driving skills, this is an extra to consider — many find it worthwhile for added reassurance.

What to bring? A driver’s license, passport or ID, sunglasses, and a credit card for the insurance fee are necessary. Proper footwear — closed-toe shoes — is mandatory, as sandals or flip-flops are not allowed for safety reasons.

Age restrictions are clear: drivers must be at least 21 years old with two years of driving experience, while passengers as young as 6 can sit in the co-pilot seat. This makes it a well-suited activity for a range of ages, including families with teenagers and adults.

The Experience: What You’ll Actually Do

From start to finish, you can expect a well-organized, guided adventure. Your guide, likely someone like the praised “explanation” giver in reviews, will demonstrate vehicle operation, answer questions, and ensure safety. It’s clear from reviews like “It was fantastic. The route we took was beautiful,” that the experience is driven not just by speed but by the stunning scenery.

Driving the manual slingshot can be a challenge, but it’s part of the fun — an authentic experience for those who love driving. The buggy offers a more relaxed, automatic alternative, perfect if you’re less experienced or just want to enjoy the scenery without extra effort.

You will stop at key viewpoints — especially the Es Grau stop — to take photos or just breathe in the mountain air. These breaks are vital for resting and absorbing the landscape, which is as much part of the adventure as the drive itself.

Most reviewers mention how the guides make the experience smooth and safe, with one noting the importance of “an explanation from your guide”. Small group sizes ensure that guides can provide personalized advice, making the experience more enjoyable and less hectic.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who like a mix of driving and sightseeing. If you’re comfortable handling a manual transmission, you’ll get the most out of the slingshot, but the buggy provides a good alternative for those less confident. Families with children aged 6 and up can join as co-drivers or passengers, making it a fun family outing.

It’s also well-suited for small groups seeking a personalized experience with a local guide. The tour’s moderate duration fits into a day’s itinerary without too much commitment. If you’re after stunning views combined with the thrill of driving in Mallorca’s mountains, this is a solid choice.

However, it’s not recommended for drivers under 21, or those who cannot drive manual cars. If you’re not comfortable with a manual transmission, the automatic buggy offers a good, less stressful option. Also, if you prefer a more relaxed, less adventurous activity, this might not be the right fit.

Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?

At $67 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the guided instruction, vehicle use, scenic stops, and small group size. The additional €30 insurance is an optional extra, but many find it worthwhile for peace of mind.

The 2-hour duration fits nicely into a Mallorca day, especially if you’re combining it with other activities. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the multilingual guides help bridge any language gaps.

The meeting point at the garage of Formula Tours is straightforward, and the tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds to the convenience for travelers with changing plans.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This combo tour is a fantastic pick for those who crave a bit of speed, scenic beauty, and authentic driving fun in Mallorca. If you’re comfortable driving a manual, love beautiful coastal and mountain views, and want a guided, small-group experience, this tour delivers. It’s especially appealing to travelers who appreciate local guides and want to capture memorable photos at remarkable viewpoints.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and enjoy adventure with a scenic twist, this activity can be a highlight of your trip. The blend of driving, sightseeing, and friendly guidance makes it a memorable, enjoyable challenge for most.

Just keep in mind the license requirements and vehicle handling skills, and you’ll likely find yourself sharing stories of Mallorca’s mountains and coast long after the engine has cooled down.

FAQ

Do I need a driving license to participate? Yes, you must have a valid driver’s license. Drivers need to be at least 21 years old with two years of experience to operate the vehicles.

Can I drive the vehicles if I’ve never driven a manual before? No, the slingshot has a manual transmission, so you’ll need to be comfortable driving a stick shift.

Is insurance included in the price? No, insurance for the driver costs an extra €30 and is paid at the office. It’s optional but recommended for peace of mind.

What should I bring on the tour? Bring passport or ID, driver’s license, sunglasses, credit card (for extra insurance), and closed-toe shoes.

Can children ride along? Yes, children from 6 years old can be copilots, provided they meet safety and size requirements.

How many stops are there? Expect 2 to 3 stops, depending on traffic and timing, including the scenic viewpoint at Es Grau.

Is the tour suitable for people who are not experienced drivers? The buggy with automatic transmission can be easier for less experienced drivers, but the manual slingshot requires confidence with a stick shift.

This Mallorca combo tour offers a lively, scenic, and authentic driving adventure for those eager to see the island from a different perspective. With stunning views, a knowledgeable guide, and the thrill of driving both a manual and automatic vehicle, it’s a memorable way to add a little speed to your Mallorca holiday.