Scenic tour by Train, Tram and Boat through the lakes

Introduction: A Scenic Journey Through Mallorca’s Natural Beauty

This tour promises a full day of sightseeing by combining land and sea adventures, focusing on Mallorca’s breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and vintage transport experiences. It’s designed mainly for those who love the journey itself—especially the iconic Soller tram and train rides—rather than just ticking off sights. While some reviews mention less-than-perfect organization, many travelers appreciate the picturesque routes and knowledgeable guides, like Vivianne, who keeps the trip lively.

What I like most about this experience is how it captures the essence of Mallorca’s Tramuntana region—passing through Mediterranean forests, rugged cliffs, and azure waters. The boat ride from Sa Calobra, in particular, shines with spectacular views, giving you a sense of sailing along a dramatic coastline. Another highlight is the vintage train ride, which feels like stepping back in time, adding charm and nostalgia to the day.

A potential drawback to keep in mind is the limited time at each stop, which might leave some travelers wishing for more exploration. The itinerary is packed into about 8.5 hours, so if you prefer longer visits or a relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, weather can influence the boat trip, though an alternative route by road is offered if needed.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning landscape views from mountain roads, coastal cliffs, and boat trips highlight Mallorca’s natural beauty.
• Vintage train and tram rides offer authentic, nostalgic transportation that’s both charming and photogenic.
• Efficiency is evident, but the tight schedule might limit time at each destination—good for quick snapshots, less so for long stays.
• Guides like Vivianne are praised for professionalism and multilingual skills, adding a personal touch.
• Weather impacts are acknowledged—boat cancellations mean alternative routes are prepared, showing flexibility.
• Limited bathroom access during the trip, so plan accordingly if you need facilities during your day.

Exploring the Detailed Itinerary

Starting the Day with Majestic Mountain Views

The tour kicks off early at around 9:30 am, meeting at Camí de l’Escullera in Palma. The first leg takes you through the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its dramatic peaks and lush forests. Passing by the two largest reservoirs, you’ll get a glimpse of how water sustains Palma and the surrounding areas. I love how this part combines practicality—seeing the reservoirs that supply Palma—with the chance to enjoy sweeping mountain vistas.

The guide will point out the highest peaks and the typical Mediterranean flora, offering a taste of Mallorca’s diverse landscape. It’s a calm, scenic start that sets the tone for the day’s visual feast.

The Scenic Drive to Sa Calobra

Next, you’ll traverse the La Carretera de Sa Calobra, often described as a civil engineering marvel—think of a winding, cliff-hugging road that looks like a giant Scalextric track. The drive itself is a highlight, with hairpin turns and breathtaking views over the sea. The 30-minute drive is a perfect teaser for the natural wonders ahead.

The Majestic Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis

Once you arrive in Sa Calobra, you’re rewarded with one of Mallorca’s most celebrated natural sights. The waters here are crystal clear, and the sheer cliffs surrounding Torrent de Pareis create a dramatic backdrop perfect for photos or a quick dip if you’re brave enough. In the reviews, some mention the two-hour stop as a bit rushed, but many appreciate the opportunity to see this natural wonder. If you’re feeling energetic, there’s enough time to enjoy a swim or explore the area’s rugged beauty.

The Unique Boat Trip Along the Coast

From Sa Calobra, you board a boat for a one-hour cruise along the coast, giving you a different perspective of Mallorca’s steep cliffs and mountain ranges. The boat ride is often rated as the highlight, with stunning views that are impossible to experience from land. Keep in mind, weather can affect this part—one reviewer noted cancellations due to rough seas, but an alternative route by road is offered, which shows good planning on the operator’s part.

Port de Soller and the Tram Ride

Arriving at the port of Soller, you’ll hop on a vintage tram along the maritime promenade and countryside. This tram ride, included in the tour, offers a nostalgic journey through a lively, picturesque village. You’ll see the colorful fishing boats and quaint streets, providing a real sense of local life. The 20-minute stop here offers enough time to soak in the scenery, though some might wish for a longer visit.

The Charm of Soller Town

Next, you’ll explore Soller itself, a town famed for its modernist architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The 15-minute walk around allows you to glimpse its lively streets and markets. It’s a quick visit, but enough to feel the town’s energy.

The Vintage Soller Train

The final leg is the century-old train back to Palma, a highlight for many. The train’s vintage look and slow pace evoke a nostalgic era, and the hour-long ride offers scenic views of orange groves and traditional villages. The reviews often praise the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Vivianne, who enhances the experience with their stories and multilingual skills.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

Duration and Timing

This tour runs approximately 8.5 hours starting at 9:30 am, with a packed schedule designed to showcase Mallorca’s most photogenic spots. If you’re someone who prefers relaxed exploration, you might find the tight timetable a little rushed, especially at stops like Sa Calobra or Soller.

Transportation and Comfort

The journey includes coach transport, boat, tram, and vintage train rides. The size of the group is capped at 55 travelers, which helps keep things organized, but it’s still a sizable group. The coach is comfortable enough for a day trip, though bathroom access is limited during the bus segments. Be prepared for some walking—at least 3 km throughout the day—so comfortable shoes are a must.

Cost and Value

At $107.66 per person, this tour offers a lot of value if you’re interested in nature, scenic transport, and authentic villages. The price includes the boat trip, tram, and train, but not lunch, so plan to bring snacks or a light meal. Given the views and experiences, many find it a reasonable price for a full-day adventure.

Weather and Cancellation

Weather can impact the boat trip—if conditions aren’t safe, the boat may be replaced by a scenic drive. The tour provider is transparent about cancellations due to weather, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours beforehand, making it a relatively low-risk option.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic rides, picturesque villages, and a bit of adventure. It’s ideal for those who want a snapshot of Mallorca’s varied landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transportation. If you’re OK with a brisk pace and short stops, this tour offers plenty to see and photograph.

However, if you prefer more time at each destination or are traveling with children who need frequent breaks, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Also, those prone to seasickness should be aware of the boat segment, although alternatives are available.

Final Thoughts

This Mallorca scenic tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s mountains, coastlines, and villages. The combination of stunning vistas, vintage transport, and knowledgeable guides makes for a memorable day. While some reviews mention organizational hiccups and limited time at each stop, the overall consensus is that the experience is visually rewarding and worth the price.

It’s a good choice for curious travelers who value authentic transportation experiences and want a taste of Mallorca’s natural beauty without the fuss of planning everything themselves. If you’re seeking a lively, scenic excursion that captures the essence of Mallorca’s rugged charm, this tour checks many boxes.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers the Soller train and tramway rides, as well as the boat trip from Sa Calobra—the main scenic highlights. Lunch is not included, so bring your own snacks or plan to grab something in Soller.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the coach is suitable for a full-day tour, with a group size of up to 55 travelers. Remember, bathroom access is limited during the coach segments.

What if the boat trip is canceled?
Weather-related cancellations are possible, but an alternative route by road will be offered if needed. This flexibility helps ensure you still see the spectacular coastline.

How much walking is involved?
You should be prepared to walk at least 3 km throughout the day, including stops in Soller and Sa Calobra. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I extend my time at each stop?
Not really—this tour is designed to be a quick, scenic overview. If you want more time exploring each place, consider a different tour or adding extra days.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, as long as participants can handle the walking and are comfortable with the schedule. It’s recommended for most travelers, including families.

What are the tour’s main highlights?
Expect stunning mountain and coastal views, the nostalgic charm of the vintage train and tram, and the breathtaking scenery at Sa Calobra. Guides like Vivianne are praised for their professionalism, making the experience more enjoyable.

When should I book?
The tour is best booked at least 24 days in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

To sum it up, this scenic Mallorca tour offers a picturesque blend of natural beauty and vintage transportation that’s perfect for travelers eager to see the island’s highlights efficiently. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy a brisk but visually rewarding day—especially if you appreciate charming villages, rugged coastlines, and authentic rides. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and some short stops, but in return, you’ll come away with plenty of memorable views and photos to cherish.