There is no polite way to say this: it is absolutely roasting. If you are on the island right now, you already know. If you are about to arrive, brace yourself. An atmospheric phenomenon called an Omega Loop has pushed Saharan air northward through Spain, France and beyond, delivering record-breaking temperatures across Europe. Mallorca is on maximum forest fire alert, and the devastating wildfire in Andalucia this week is a grim reminder of how quickly things can escalate from a single spark.
Which brings us to the story of our own street. Last Sunday at seven in the morning, an electrical cable short-circuited where it joins our neighbour’s house, catching fire with a crack loud enough to launch Vicki out of bed like a cannonball. Our neighbour Carlos appeared with a fire extinguisher and dealt with it like it was nothing. The electricity company had it fixed by half nine. On a Sunday. Impressive, but unnerving.
The Eclipse: August 12
The big event on Mallorca’s calendar is the total solar eclipse on August 12. Totality hits at around 8:30pm, just ten minutes before sunset, which means you need an unobstructed view of the sun meeting the western horizon. The Tramuntana mountain range blocks that view from most of the island.
Your best options:
- The Tramuntana coast from Andratx to Cap Formentor (stunning, but expect road closures and gridlock)
- El Toro and the Malgrat Islands area in Calvia
- The south-east coast from Arenal through Llucmajor to Campos
A boat sounds romantic, but charter prices have surged (we have seen 1,200 euros per person) and most Mallorcan charter vessels are not licensed to operate after dark. If you are on the water, be aware that conditions after totality will be chaotic: unlicensed boats, inexperienced skippers, champagne, and darkness.
One crucial warning: do not rely on ChatGPT for eclipse viewing recommendations. It has been confidently suggesting locations such as the Paseo Maritimo in Palma, where you absolutely will not see the eclipse. Check local sources.
Fiestas: The Real Mallorca
Port Andratx is mid-fiesta this week. Demonis (the devils) kicked things off, followed by Nit de Cavalls (horses rearing on sand-covered streets), and the highlight: the procession of the Virgin Mary. The statue is carried from the church to a fishing boat, the priest and dignitaries board, and a flotilla of flower-and-flag-draped boats follows out to the mouth of the bay for a blessing. It is genuinely moving, even for non-believers, and if you ever get an invitation onto that main boat, say yes.
Every village in Mallorca has its fiestas through the summer. They are cheap, welcoming, multigenerational and completely authentic. If you are on holiday and sitting in a resort, get a bus inland and find one. You will not regret it.
Deya: Beautiful, Busy, Buzzing
Deya continues to punch above its weight on social media. A new bar called Barraco has racked up over 118,000 views on a single reel. Nama remains one of the island’s best restaurants (not the most expensive, but the food is astonishing). Korean tourists are arriving in numbers after K-pop content was filmed in the Soller Valley. And couples in wedding attire continue to roam beauty spots for photos, which is a thing now.
If you are visiting Mallorca, slow down. Stop trying to tick off a list. Give yourself the luxury of time. Pick a few things, enjoy them properly, and come back next year for the rest.
Listen to the latest podcast episode here.
FAQ section
Where can I watch the eclipse in Mallorca?
You need an unobstructed western sea view. Best spots: the Tramuntana coast (Andratx to Cap Formentor), El Toro/Malgrat area in Calvia, or the south-east coast from Arenal to Campos. Look out for our next podcast episode when we will cover ALL the possible places.
What time is the eclipse in Mallorca?
The eclipse begins around 7:30pm, with totality at approximately 8:30pm, about ten minutes before sunset.
Will roads be closed for the eclipse?
Yes The coast road between Andratx and Soller is expected to face restrictions. Plan well ahead or consider alternative viewing spots.
Can I rent a boat for the eclipse?
Possibly, but prices have hit 1,200 euros per person and most charter boats lack after-dark licences. If you go, ensure your skipper is experienced and licensed for night navigation.
Is it safe to hike during the heatwave?
Mallorca is in maximum forest fire alert. If you do go out, carry water, avoid any ignition sources (no smoking, no glass bottles in the sun), and do not light anything. Be prepared to walk back in darkness if viewing the eclipse from high ground.
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