Es Firó - Festival of Moors and Christians (Moros y Cristianos)
One of the biggest festivals of the year in Mallorca and definitely one of the noisiest. It runs over four days with events being held in both Sóller and Port de Sóller.
Attractive rural town in the west of Mallorca
Set in a lush valley of orange groves between the mountains and the sea, Sóller has been popular with day trippers for some time. Arriving on the vintage train from Palma there is plenty of taking things easy, sitting outside the cafés in Plaça Constitució soaking up the atmosphere and the sun. With several tapas bars, a fine selection of pastry shops, local ice-cream, and freshly made drinks, there is little temptation to move on.
A typical old Mediterranean town, Sóller is made up of narrow streets lined with traditional style residential townhouses with the famous green Mallorcan shutters. The main square, Plaça Constitució, has plenty of cafés where you can enjoy a freshly made drink, and every Saturday the area comes alive when the local market takes place. Culture vultures come from far and wide to visit Sóller for its rich history, the beautiful architecture and museums. It's also a town that hosts many traditional Mallorcan fairs and festivals throughout the year.
Sóller lies a couple of miles inland from its port, Port de Sóller. There is a vintage tram that runs from the town to the port, which is one of the most famous attractions for tourists in the area. It’s also really easy to travel between Sóller and Palma, thanks to a vintage train, dating back to 1912, that connects the two and travels several times throughout the day. The train journey is an experience in itself as it passes through some wonderfully scenic countryside.
In recent years, a few stylish boutique hotels have opened in the area, making Sóller a trendy holiday destination amongst some of the islands most affluent visitors. Although it’s worth knowing that the town remains very much Spanish in terms of its full-time residents and there are very few expats living here year-round, which is perhaps part of its appeal.
Sóller plays host to a great selection of festivals throughout the year.
The biggest and best fiesta in the Sóller calendar is Es Firo, the Moros and Cristianos Festival which takes place in the second week of May. It commemorates a battle that took place in 1561 between pirates and local townspeople. The festivities include dances and concerts and, most famously, the battle re-enactment. Everyone dresses up as Moors or in traditional Mallorcan costume and there is much celebrating.
June sees a major fiesta, the celebration of Sant Joan or midsummer's eve with bonfires and dancing on the 23 August, whilst the fiesta of Sant Bartomeu takes place during the week of 24 August.
One of the biggest festivals of the year in Mallorca and definitely one of the noisiest. It runs over four days with events being held in both Sóller and Port de Sóller.
Sóller has been inhabited by humans since Talayotic times (from 5,200 BC), and remains from this era include bronze statues, two of which can be seen in the Museu de Mallorca in Palma. The location of Sóller, deep in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, meant that the town was isolated from the rest of Mallorca and missed out on much of the Roman occupation.
Pirates and other seafaring invaders were always a danger to the inhabitants of Sóller, which is why the main town is situated a couple of miles inland from the sea. During the 16th century, Sóller suffered repeated attacks from Moorish pirates from Algeria. The pirates were after treasures, as well as women and children. One particular battle in 1561 saw a famous victory for the Sóllerics when they repelled 1,600 pirates in both Sóller and at the Port de Sóller. This victory is celebrated every year at the Moros y Cristianos Festival in May when everyone gets dressed up as Moors or Christians and the battle is re-enacted on the beaches in the Port.
During the 19th century, Sóller became a major exporter of olives and citrus fruits. The French Revolution had seen a great deal of French immigration to Sóller and it was these migrants who utilised their links back in France to build trade relations. With trade came wealth and the creation of impressive manor houses and public buildings, giving Sóller an air of grandeur rarely seen in other Mallorcan towns. A stroll to the cemetery above the train station, flanked by cypress trees and filled with potted plants, gives a clue into Sóller's history. Several of the epitaphs are in French, revealing the significant French community of the town, descendants of those who came to make their fortune by exporting oranges.
In 1865, a deathly plague struck the orange groves in the valley. Exports declined, public finances were ravaged and many people left to seek their fortunes back in France or South America. The fruit farms gradually recovered and received a boost when scientists discovered the benefits of vitamin C to human health, which created great demand for oranges and lemons.
It was not until 1912, when the rail link to Palma was built that Sóller finally began to trade with the rest of Mallorca. The tram line that links Sóller to Port de Sóller was built in 1914 to help with the transportation of oranges for export. The most recent improvement to the transportation to the rest of Mallorca was the construction of the Sóller Tunnel, a 3km road underneath the mountains, in 1997.
Sóller owes much of its charm to its rich history - especially its days of prosperity during the orange trade - and you can still see the legacy of that wealth in the town’s striking architecture.
The standout building in the main square is the church of Sant Bartomeu. First built in the 13th century, it has evolved over the centuries, with a grand Baroque structure added in the late 1600s and an impressive modernist façade completed in 1904 by Joan Rubid, a former pupil of Gaudí. Look out for the dramatic tower above the rose window, added in 1912 - its needle-like spires are hard to miss. Right next door, you'll spot another of Rubid’s creations: the grand former bank building, just as architecturally impressive.
As you wander through town, you’ll notice plenty more historic gems. There are elegant 18th century residences, medieval townhouses, and neoclassical mansions dotted around the centre. For a glimpse into Sóller’s more extravagant past, head to Gran Via, where many of the most lavish old manor houses, built with money from the orange trade, still line the street. Cristòfol Colom and Calle Isabel II are also worth a stroll, with beautiful examples of both Modernist and traditional Mallorcan architecture.
If you enjoy a bit of culture while you’re away, Sóller has some lovely museums and galleries to explore. The Natural Science Museum, just on the edge of town, is a great place to learn about Mallorca’s botany, geology and wildlife. There’s also a fascinating fossil collection. Right next door, the botanical garden is well worth a visit. It’s a peaceful spot filled with plants from across the Balearic and Canary Islands, perfect for a gentle wander.
Back in the centre of town, the Museu del Casal de Cultura offers a glimpse into Sóller’s past. Set in an 18th century manor house, it’s full of antiques and objects that tell the story of local life over the centuries.
One of the real cultural highlights is Can Prunera, Sóller’s modern art gallery. Even if you’re not usually drawn to galleries, this one is special - both for its collection and the building itself. You’ll find works by Picasso, Miró, Matisse, Magritte, and many more, all set within a beautifully preserved Modernist house from the early 1900s. The architecture alone, ornate staircases, stained glass, murals, is worth the visit. It’s a wonderful blend of art, history, and local flair.
Sóller is a botanist’s and enthusiast’s paradise. The Botanical garden is found in a country estate known as “Camp d’En Prohom”, on the outskirts of Sóller. Its primary purpose is to preserve rare or endangered species of the Balearics, and is the result of many years of study and hard work, and now hosts one of Spain’s most extensive wild flora seed banks.
Housed in a wonderful Modernist building, Can Prunera was built in the early 20th century and the museum was opened on 24 August 2009. The vast majority of works on display at this museum belong to the Fundació d’Art Serra.
This museum is a naturalist entity dedicated to exhibiting and conserving the natural heritage of the Balearic Islands and making the general public aware of the importance of its preservation.
The Serra de Tramuntana mountains (translated as the "mountains of the north wind") run the length of Mallorca's northwestern coastline extending for almost 90km and claim some of the island’s most magnificent scenery. In 2011, it was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO under the cultural landscape category.
The vintage carriages are still in use, providing a fantastic opportunity for tourists, and a relief for locals from the terrors of the old Palma-Soller road.
The Port of Soller offers the only sandy beaches on the west coast of Majorca. This lovely little resort offers two beaches along it's horseshoe bay, all with golden sands and clear blue seas.
Cala Deia is a very beautiful small rocky cala with clear waters and rock pools, one of the few beaches on the west coast of Mallorca. It's quite a rugged beach here so you might need to bring a chair or a lilo to lie on.
One of Mallorca’s most talked about treasures, Sa Calobra, forms an unusual cove found at the head of a gorge of the Torrent de Pareis. It’s curious location and dramatic surroundings have inspired artists for many years and still do today.
Offering a distinctly different experience from the more typical Mallorcan beaches, Banyalbufar is carved into the dramatic foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana. This small bay bears a few signs of regular usage, with terraced slopes and protective structures that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Once difficult to access, Cala Banyalbufar is now easily reachable via a windy round, allowing all to discover its quiet beauty.
The closest beach to Palma is at Ca'n Pere Antoni. This stretch of golden sandy beach starts just beyond the cathedral. A promenade and cycle path runs along its length but behind these lies the main road that takes you to Palma airport.
Portixol is found just to the east of Palma's cathedral and is home to a little bay within which a little sand and shingle beach known as D'es Portitxolet Beach resides. The water is generally calm here due to the sheltered nature of the bay.
You’ll find plenty of spots around Sóller’s main square where you can grab a relaxed bite to eat, perfect for a quick snack or a bit of people watching. But if you’re happy to explore some of the quieter side streets, you’ll come across some lovely places offering great food and good value.
If you're after something more traditionally Spanish, there are some excellent restaurants serving up high-quality tapas, paella, fideuà, fresh seafood, and hearty Mallorcan meat dishes. A few specialise in pintxos and small sharing plates (raciones), all made fresh each day with top-notch local ingredients. Think fruit and veg from nearby cooperatives and bread baked just down the road. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavours of the region in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
You’ll also find more intimate restaurants tucked away on Sóller’s prettiest streets. These often have a bit of a personal touch, run by friends or families, offering a cosy atmosphere and a menu full of creative twists on local favourites. If you’re a fan of generous cuts like prime rib steak or beautifully crafted tapas, you’re in for a treat.
If it’s a view you’re after, there are places a little higher up the hill where you can dine overlooking the Sóller valley. These restaurants usually focus on Mediterranean cuisine with a bit of international influence, all made with high-quality, often organic, local produce. It’s a lovely spot for a special lunch or dinner.
And when you’re ready to slow down, Sóller’s café scene won’t disappoint. Whether you're in the mood for a good coffee, a homemade pastry, or a refreshing ice cream, there are plenty of welcoming cafés dotted around. They’re ideal for relaxing after a wander through town or just treating yourself to a sweet pause in the day..
Ca's Xorc Luxury Retreat is home to an abundance of delicious fresh and local food that the chef interprets into incredible local, Mediterranean cuisine in a modern and creative manner. The restaurant offers fresh and simple Mediterranean-inspired cuisine using vegetables, herbs, seasonal fruits, cereals and homemade olive oil. All produce is local, fresh, natural and organic. What's more, most of the meat and dairy in the dishes come from the hotel farm.
Perched on the ninth floor of the Jumeirah Mallorca, Es Fanals offers a fine dining experience with breathtaking views over Port de Sóller, where the rugged mountains meet the tranquil Mediterranean. This Michelin Guide-featured restaurant celebrates the gastronomic treasures of the Balearic Islands, with tasting menus crafted from the freshest local produce and expertly presented under the guidance of Chef Javier Lopez.
Neni Restaurant in Port de Sóller brings a taste of Israel and the Orient to the rooftop terrace of the Bikini Island & Mountain Hotel, offering a truly memorable dining experience. Situated in the charming coastal town of Port de Sóller, the restaurant boasts panoramic views of the bay and the dramatic Tramuntana Mountains, making it a perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or evening drinks.
Perched on the cliffs above Port de Sóller, Cap Roig at the Jumeirah Mallorca Hotel offers an exceptional seafood dining experience with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Specialising in locally sourced fish and shellfish, the restaurant works closely with local fishermen to ensure every dish highlights the very best of the sea.
Nestled in the heart of Sóller, Ca’n Pintxo is a family-run restaurant that brings the Basque tradition of pintxos to Mallorca with a modern twist. Founded in 2011 by a group of young culinary enthusiasts, the restaurant celebrates local ingredients, sustainability, and a passion for quality. Every pintxo is crafted on the spot, blending micro-gastronomy techniques with Balearic flavours to create small dishes full of creativity and care.
This German run restaurant serves a great tapas menu as well as other local specialities and sea food dishes.
Offering some of the best views in Port de Sóller, this bar serves drinks and typical tapas.
Visit this casual, no frills wine bar for excellent local tipples and a great view over the port of Soller.
Located in Port de Soller, George’s cocktail bar is charming, has outdoor seating and serves great food.
Aside from soaking up the charm of the town and its rich history, a big reason people flock to Sóller is simply to spend time outdoors. It’s usually a bit cooler here than elsewhere on the island, which makes it perfect for getting out and about. Whether you’re meandering through the quiet backstreets or catching a ride on the vintage train, it would be almost criminal not to head off on foot or hop on a bike for a bit of a pootle.
Exploring the area on foot may simpy mean exploring the shops, most of which are tailored towards tourists visiting the town - gift shops and some lovely delis abound. If you're here for the shopping, Saturday mornings are a good time to visit as the local market has stalls selling local arts and crafts, jewellery, clothes, toys and sweets, alongside local produce.
When we think of things to do, we think of activities which mostly take place around the neighbouring Port de Sóller. There are boat trips, yacht charters and scuba diving activities available.
Full-day or half-day sailing trip aboard Vesper of Sóller.
Choose between two thrilling ways to explore Mallorca’s stunning coastline. Enjoy a guided boat adventure swimming in hidden lagoons and sea caves, or test your team’s skills and adrenaline in a competitive speedboat coast challenge packed with exciting activities.
Enjoy an evening cruise along the northwest Mallorcan coastline aboard one of a selection of 50ft vessels, as the mountains transform from pink to orange to red.
Full-day or half-day boat trip aboard the eye-catching Hanse 458 – sure to impress every guest on board
Full-day or half-day boat trip on Seacret, a sailing yacht designed to maximise space and light.
Enjoy a fun full-day or half-day boat trip aboard this sporty Beneteau Flyer 7.7 Sportdeck.
Being the gateway to the Serra de Tramuntana, Sóller is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and road cycling is an extremely popular way of exploring it. The roads up into the Tramuntana range provide great challenges for the road cycling enthusiast, with plenty of winding ascents and descents.
If you're thinking about mountain biking here, it's possible but not that well-renowned, and a guide is particularly recommended as much of the land in the area is privately owned.
The southern end of the Sierra Tramuntana does not have the epic climbs of the north, however this rolling ride provides no less than six different summits as well as some of Mallorca's most scenic roads.
Cycling from Port de Soller along the coast and through Deia, you will then travel on to Valldemossa before heading back inland and finishing over the Coll de Soller.
Starting and finishing in Port de Soller this ride has a half way point in Cala Deia where you ahve the chance to stop for some lunch, a snack or even a dip in the sea to cool off.
With undulating roads and an altitude gain of almost 2000m this relatively short ride, at just 75km, will get your lungs and your legs pumping.
The road to Sa Calobra is one of the reasons so many cyclists come to Mallorca. With an average gradient of 7% (maximum gradient is 12%) and a height gain of 668m over 9.4km it is sure to test the most professional thighs.
A cycling tour with Mills and Honey isn't just about cycling, it's about immersing yourself in the landscape, culture and flavours of the island.
Hiking is a major draw for visitors who are spoilt for choice when it comes to trails in the area. You can choose from coastal walks or head deep into the Tramuntana mountain range. The trails are well maintained and signposted.
The most famous is 'Dry Stone Route’ which runs over 50km in length from Andratx, in the south, via Sóller to Pollença in the north. Mountain refuges dot the trail so hikers have place places to stay en-route.
This route includes an attractive ascent on cobbled paths via the Mont-Reials path and a descent via the Rocafort joined by a stretch of the Castello path. This walk captures some of the best views of the Soller valley.
Leaving Soller and hiking through the Serra de Tramuntana valley this trail follows cobbled paths that lead to a unique sequence of cliffs, crags and stone slopes. The area was declared an asset of Cultural Interest in 1984.
The family was reunited and the sun was blazing as we left Soller for Fornalutx on the hunt for lunch.
This trip actually begins in Palma, where one takes the electric train that joins Palma to the 'valley of the oranges' - Soller.
Alaró is located in the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains, between Palma and Inca. The distance from Alaró to es Pouet is about 7km and the climb provides some beautiful views of the plain of Mallorca, as far as the city of Palma.
Valldemossa is located near the west coast of Mallorca. This walk was mapped out by Archduke Ludwig Salvatr during tours of his estates by mule.
Swim in the crystal clear waters on the north-west coast and discover its stunning underwater world on this snorkelling trip
Daily trips for certified divers in a great diversity of dive sites
Historic four-bedroom villa with a unique bedroom set in a turret, private heated pool, and stunning coastline views.
This elegant villa, set within the private Son Bunyola Estate, combines modern comforts with a serene atmosphere to ensure a truly relaxing holiday in Mallorca.
Spacious five-bedroom villa with private heated pool, classic Mallorcan features, and a wealth of thoughtful facilities.
Designed with exquisite taste, this stylish and modern villa in Moscari exudes class and good taste. With every attention to the utmost details, the property has a beautiful harmony of Mallorcan architecture and Dutch interior design.
With every attention to the utmost details, the property has a beautiful harmony of Mallorcan architecture and Dutch interior designed with exquisite taste, this stylish and modern villa in Moscari exudes class and good taste.
This is a luxurious villa that has been restored from old ruins with great care to incorporate the original architecture with a modern design.
Staying in short-term rental accommodation in Sóller gives you the freedom to enjoy the town at your own pace. Whether in the historic centre or near the mountains, it’s a relaxed and flexible base. With extra space and the option to cook or dine out, it’s ideal for a comfortable holiday.
These lovely apartments share a great view of the Tramuntana mountains, and have all been tastefully decorated, giving you the feel of a home from home.
Sóller offers a fantastic range of hotels to suit all budgets, with increasing attention in recent years for its luxury boutique-style accommodation.
The town centre features a number of elegant boutique hotels, many housed in historic buildings with a blend of contemporary design and period charm. Guests can expect features such as luxurious beds, stylish en-suite bathrooms, and welcoming communal areas. Many establishments offer the ideal combination of peaceful seclusion - perhaps with a pool or garden - and proximity to the centre of Sóller, just a short stroll away.
Five-star options in the heart of town typically include refined amenities such as spas, fine dining restaurants, curated art collections, and tranquil outdoor spaces. Other hotels offer a more relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, with individually styled rooms, lush gardens, and inviting poolside areas ideal for unwinding with a drink in hand. Some are known for their characterful touches, such as extensive wine cellars or distinctive design elements - perfect for a romantic break.
There are also more traditional town hotels set in beautifully restored 19th century manor houses. These often feature just a handful of rooms, offering a more intimate experience with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, elegant suites, and well-tended gardens. Their charm and attention to detail often result in high guest loyalty and frequent return visits.
For those seeking a more tranquil, rural setting, the hills surrounding Sóller are dotted with converted fincas offering peaceful retreats amidst nature. These countryside hotels typically feature traditional Mallorcan architecture, with rustic yet stylish interiors, romantic bedrooms, and sweeping views of the sea and mountains.
Many have been lovingly restored and now offer amenities such as swimming pools, gardens filled with citrus and olive trees, and on-site dining using local ingredients. Despite their secluded feel, several are within easy walking distance of the town centre, making them a perfect base for exploring Sóller while enjoying the serenity of the countryside.
Whether you’re looking for modern luxury, traditional elegance, or a rural escape, Sóller’s hotel scene has something for every taste and occasion.
Ca's Xorc Luxury Retreat is the place to stay if you're looking for somewhere that's rich in history but with all the modern amneties. Breathtaking views, gourmet cuisine and a relaxing environment, the ideal place for a peaceful stay in a beautiful location.
A majestic manor house, dating from the Arabian period and the 14th and 16th centuries. It is situated in a protected area, surrounded by a nice garden with a variety of Mediterranean flora and fauna.
This peaceful retreat promises a warm welcome and a chance to experience Mallorca’s quieter, more authentic side.
Charming rural hotel based on an old Mallorcan oil mill, in a property more than 200 years old. It has been recently refurbished, and is located in the heart of hiking and cycling land.
The Gran Hotel Soller is located in one of the most characteristic buildings of Sóller, a depiction of the architecture of the town in the 19th century.
This finca belongs to the Mallorcan family-Morell since 1973, and has been transformed into a rural hotel. It is located between Soller and Puerto de Soller, surrounded by the Tramuntana mountains.
Car hire is a viable option in Mallorca and Soller is a 45 minute drive from Palma airport. Or take the worry out of getting from the airport and book a transfer.
There is a direct bus from the airport. Check for times.
Experience luxury and convenience with this company. Arrive at your yacht charter, sunset tour or boat trip in unparalleled style in a Rolls Royce Ghost.
The established company have been offering a reliable, reasonably priced, private transfer service in Mallorca since 1993.
This transfer company offers cheap and reliable Airport Transfers to all destinations in Mallorca with official vehicles and professional drivers.
Taxi PMI is the Association of Taxi Drivers of Palma de Mallorca, who provide visitors with an efficient and reliable airport transfer service, whilst also eliminating the need to stand in a queue and wait for the next available taxi.
This taxi & transfer company operates out of Palma, covering the whole of Mallorca Island.
This taxi company offers 24-hour service from the airport to your accommodation all around Mallorca.
Set on an 8,300 m² flat, sun-drenched plot, this fully renovated finca blends authentic Mallorcan charm with modern comfort - complete with two beautifully appointed guesthouses, a saltwater pool, solar power, and breathtaking views of the Tramuntana mountains. Located just outside the historic village of Binissalem, in the heart of Mallorca’s celebrated wine country, this is a rare opportunity to purchase a tranquil rural home that’s move-in ready and built to a high standard.
Experience the ultimate in comfortable living with this exceptional property located in the desirable urbanization of Crestatx, nestled between Sa Pobla and Pollensa. Boasting a prime location in a residential area with high demand, this fabulous plot features a charming small house that offers plenty of possibilities for extension to meet your future needs.
Located in the tranquil urbanisation of Crestatx in Sa Pobla, this property is perfect for those seeking a natural and well-connected environment. With a functional design, the home is spread over two floors, offering comfortable and practical living spaces for families or friends to enjoy.
Welcome to this charming estate in the countryside near Pollença Pueblo! This unique property consists of two adjoining estates, offering a perfect combination of tranquillity in the Mallorcan countryside and proximity to all the amenities of Pollença Pueblo, just a five-minute drive away. Additionally, it is only fifteen minutes from the spectacular beaches of Puerto Pollença, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy island life.
Welcome to an exclusive estate situated in the heart of rural Pollensa. This property offers impressive vineyards and a design that combines traditional rustic charm with elegant modern touches.
Nestled in the charming centre of Pollença, this stunning two-bedroom townhouse has been recently renovated to an exceptional standard. The property blends clean, contemporary design with authentic Mallorcan and Mediterranean touches, creating a warm and stylish living environment.
Find out all about what is happening in Mallorca and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience on the island.
See allLatest News & ReviewsThe island hosts all sorts of events, including agricultural fairs in the spring and autumn, live music and DJs in the summer, religious fiestas and international sporting events. Some of the most popular are the Mallorca 312 cycling race in April, the Copa del Rey sailing regatta in July and the Moors vs Christians mock battle in September.
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