By Train, Tram and Boat: A Relaxed Round Trip to Sa Calobra

An island loop that slows you down

I tried this connection on a hot late-summer day. The start was at the station in Palma at around 10 a.m., where the old wooden carriages gleamed in the sun and a few travellers with cameras and water bottles were already waiting. As soon as the train starts rolling, that calming clatter sets in which, combined with an open window and a breeze from the sea, feels almost meditative. Suddenly Palma is nothing more than a distant background noise.

Through the Serra de Tramuntana

The route winds slowly through the mountains. Olive groves alternate with barren fields, cicadas chirp above us, and now and then a horse grazes leisurely on the slope. Just before Sóller the train stops at a viewpoint — time for a photo before the group boards again. In Sóller's town centre a stroll is worthwhile: the stone church, narrow lanes, a small café where the espresso is properly strong and smells of freshly ground beans.

From there the historic tram gently rocks down the slope towards Port de Sóller. The tram moves so unhurriedly that you can really take in the surroundings: children licking ice cream, fishermen checking their nets, and the promenade with its simple benches. Around half past twelve there was a plain bocadillo by the water — you don't need more when the sun is warm on your shoulder.

The sea section: Boat to Sa Calobra

The final leg is the boat trip. The engine hums, the boat rocks slightly, and sheer rock faces rise vertically from the water outside. After about an hour's journey the boat docks at Sa Calobra. The small harbour seems to have taken its time ageing: a few bars, a kiosk with cold drinks and people sunbathing without any posing.

From the harbour a path leads through short tunnels, past goats, to the famous Torrent de Pareis. There you sit on pebbles, the water is clear and almost cool enough to wake you up after all the sitting. Families, couples, a few older visitors with wide-brimmed hats — the scene is unexcited and genuine.

Along the way I met María and Toni from Pollença. They had decided on a whim to join the trip. “Just the right pace,” they laughed. “We saw a lot and still had time to pause.”

Why this tour is good for Mallorca

Combined day trips like this are more than just pleasant hours by the sea. They spread visitors across different parts of the island instead of pushing everyone to one overcrowded beach. Train and tram rides put less strain on the roads, and the boats keep small harbours alive — from kiosks to cafés in Port de Sóller local providers benefit. Those who travel slowly stay longer in the places, give small businesses income and experience Mallorca more sustainably.

Practical tips

When: In the high season (spring to autumn) special trains run regularly, but plan early — seats are in demand.
Duration: Allow almost ten hours for the round trip, depending on how long you want to stay in Sa Calobra.
Packing list: Drinking water, sun protection, water shoes for the pebbles, a light jacket for the train tunnels and some change for an ice cream at the harbour. And bring a camera — the views from the cliff are worth it.

Conclusion: This route is a little recipe against holiday stress. Not a race, but time to look, breathe and enjoy. Anyone who wants to experience Mallorca off the fast track will find a small, very rewarding island adventure here.