
About a twenty five minute drive from Palma, situated at the end of the Soller valley is the beautiful old town of Soller. Once more closely connected with France than the rest of the Mallorca the town retains a relaxed atmosphere and has one of the best squares in Mallorca. The roads are incredibly narrow, the buildings lean into the road and the imposing church can be seen for miles around. In the Spring and Summer the surrounding mountains offer the perfect base for walkers, cyclists and photographers. Connected to the Port of Soller by the tram and to Palma by train this is a great location to experience all that Mallorca has to offer.
The closest beach is Puerto Soller which is a small sandy strip flanked by restaurants, cafes and seaside shops. The Soller beach is the best sandy beach in the area but others that are worth a visit are the very quiet and undeveloped stony beach of Puerto Valldemossa, the busier and chicer cove of Deia, or for the fearless take a drive down to Sa Calobra which leads to the pretty amphitheatre bay of Torrente de Pareis.
Soller is a great place for doing nothing and just relaxing in the square and people watching. Alternatively amble around the narrow streets exploring the many shops selling locally made products including figs, olive oil and orange based products. For mountain bikers, hikers and photographers there is plenty to keep you busy. For food lovers the olive oil press of Can Det makes for a fascinating incite into olive oil production and just goes to show why this liquid gold is so important to the island.
Soller is mainly a resort for those that enjoy the outdoor life but there are also other interesting places to visit. If you enjoy plants there is the Jardi Botanic museum and garden which is frequented by specialists and amateurs alike who are looking to improve their knowledge of island flora and fauna. The Jardi Alfabia garderns just the other side of the Soller tunnel provide a cool place to wonder around during the the hot summer months. For news on other events and things to see please visit Digame.
Cafe Soller has a good selection of salads and is a cool place to sit and relax in the main square. Daily international press, good service and jazz in the evening make for a relaxed atmosphere. Further along the Calle Luna you'll find Luna 36 serving fresh market food each day. For something smarter head to the more formal Michelin star restaurant of Bens D'Avall. Naturally the port has a good number of fish restaurants too - for more information about restaurants in the area please visit www.mallorca-restaurants-121.com
Soller has an excellent variety of places to stay ranging from the relaxed bed and breakfast establishment Casa B, through to the funky Avenida. For those that like to be in the heart of the action La Vila is right on the square but if you're looking for something more sedate try the Hotel Salvia.
The train that links Palma to Soller is truly unique as it offers a slice of history having run its first trip in 1912 and is still using a narrow gauge track today. You don't need to be a train buff to enjoy the ride though as the journey connecting Palma and Soller is simply stunning with the mountain route demonstrating the beauty of the Tramuntana mountains.
Market – in the main town on a Saturday
Fiesta – Second week of May the town goes crazy re-enacting the battle of the Moors and Christians, alcoholic fuelled, chaotic and a lot of fun.
Golf – Soller is in the mountains so consequently doesn't lend itself to its own golf courses but Son Termens is a short 20 minute drive away. Alternatively head back to Palma and the Son Vida courses for a choice of three others.
Parking – the best place to park is in the car park which can be accessed just next to the bus station on your way into the main town.
Spa - The Hotel Aimia in the port of Soller has a day spa fee of 18 Euros.
Email: paula@balearicdiscovery.com
Tel: +34 971 875 395