Scenic tour by Train, Tram and Boat through the lakes

Scenic Tour by Train, Tram, and Boat through the Lakes in Mallorca: An Honest Review

Mallorca offers countless ways to explore its stunning landscapes, but this particular tour pulls out the stops with a combination of train rides, tram trips, boat excursions, and scenic drives. It’s marketed as a full-day adventure through some of the island’s most picturesque spots, with highlights like the Tramuntana mountains, Sa Calobra, and the charming village of Soller.

What makes this experience appealing? For many, it’s the variety of transport modes—from vintage trains to historic trams—and the opportunity to see Mallorca from land and sea. It’s especially attractive if you enjoy relaxing rides and want an overview of the island’s most photogenic locations without the pressure to explore each place in detail.

However, some travelers have found that this tour is more about the journey than the time spent at each stop. With only a limited window at each location, it may not satisfy those eager to explore in-depth or to enjoy longer beach or town visits. It’s ideal for those who love scenic, laid-back trips and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re after a more immersive experience, you might want to consider a longer, more flexible option like Mallorca’s Grand Tour.

Key Points

• Focus on the journey: The tour emphasizes scenic rides and landscapes, not extensive exploration.
• Good value for scenic views: For around $107, you get boat trips, vintage train rides, and tramway experiences.
• Limited time at stops: Expect only brief visits, which may not suit travelers wanting to delve deeper into each destination.
• Recommended for relaxed travelers: Perfect for those who enjoy scenic routes over intensive sightseeing.
• Weather-dependent boat trip: The boat ride is included but can be canceled due to weather, with alternative routes provided.
• Guides and organization: Some reviews praise guides like Vivianne and Antonio for professionalism, but organizational hiccups have occurred.
• Average travel distance: The route covers coastal roads, mountain scenery, and rural landscapes, offering a comprehensive visual tour.
• Group size: Max of 55 travelers, which provides a social atmosphere but might feel crowded on busy days.
• Booking notice: The tour is often booked 24 days in advance, suggesting good planning is necessary for peak seasons.

An In-Depth Look at the Mallorca Scenic Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

This tour kicks off at Camí de l’Escullera in Palma at 9:30 am. From there, it’s a full 8.5-hour adventure that combines transport modes and diverse scenery, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a structured, visually stimulating day. The tour is operated by Lemon Tours, and includes pickup options and a mobile ticket, simplifying the logistics.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

1. Exploring the Serra de Tramuntana

The journey begins with a scenic drive through the World Heritage-listed Tramuntana mountain range—a highlight for nature lovers. Passing by the two large reservoirs, you’ll see how water supplies to Palma are managed, plus enjoy views of Mallorca’s highest peaks. This section lasts about an hour, and the landscape is lush and varied, with typical Mediterranean forests.

Reviewers like Irene_G noted that the guide, Antonio, had a “marvellous voice,” making the drive more engaging. However, some found that the short stop here didn’t allow for much exploration, so if you’re eager to hike or take photos, be prepared for limited time.

2. The Iconic Road to Sa Calobra

Next up is the famous MA-2141 road to Sa Calobra, often described as resembling a gigantic scalextric track. This route is considered a civil engineering marvel, winding through cliffs and mountain curves. The 30-minute drive offers breathtaking views, but it’s also quite a rollercoaster—so those prone to motion sickness should take note.

Since this stop is “admission-free,” it’s mainly for the thrill of the drive. Many travelers mention it as a “must-see” because of the scenery, despite the drive being a bit intense.

3. The Natural Wonder of Sa Calobra

The highlight for many is Sa Calobra itself—a natural marvel with crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and the Torrent de Pareis gorge. The tour allocates around two hours, allowing enough time to soak in the surroundings and even take a swim. This spot is frequently praised for its stunning beauty.

One reviewer, Heather_G, pointed out that the short time at each stop makes it tricky to fully enjoy, but she appreciated the opportunity to relax in such a unique setting. The free time here is also the best chance to explore at your own pace.

4. Coastal Boat Ride to Port Soller

The boat trip from Sa Calobra to Port Soller is a real highlight, offering a fresh perspective of Mallorca’s coastline. The boat is included in the tour, and travelers can enjoy the sea breeze while viewing cliffs, coves, and mountain scenery from the water.

Note: Weather can cancel the boat, and an alternative route by road is provided if necessary. Reviewers like Alicia_C appreciated this part as “fantastico,” but some noted that the time on the boat is only about an hour, so it’s not enough for a full cruise experience.

5. Discovering Port de Soller and Soller Town

Once in Port de Soller, a maritime village surrounded by mountains, you’ll have a brief chance to stroll along the promenade. A tram ride takes you through the town and countryside to Soller, one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, known for its modernist architecture.

This part lasts just 15–20 minutes, so don’t expect to explore Soller thoroughly. Still, the tram ride is charming and adds a vintage touch to the day.

6. The Vintage Soller Train

The final leg features a century-old train that’s been running for over 100 years, connecting Soller with Palma. The train’s vintage appearance and slow pace make it feel like stepping back in time. It’s a peaceful way to conclude the trip, giving you a relaxed ride back to Palma.

Reviewers like Alicia_C said the guide Vivianne was “very professional and kind,” and this segment offers a nostalgic experience that many find memorable.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Timing

The tour uses a mix of coach, boat, tram, and train, with each mode offering different vantage points and comfort levels. The group size maxes out at 55, which keeps things manageable but still lively. The timing is tight—each stop is brief, so if you’re someone who loves lingering over sights, this might feel rushed.

Cost and Value

At $107.66 per person, the price covers boat trips, tram rides, and train tickets, which are often priced separately if you try to organize them on your own. The value lies in the convenience and the chance to see multiple highlights without the hassle of logistics. However, since lunch isn’t included, you’ll need to budget for a meal, especially after a busy morning.

Who Will Love This?

This tour is best suited for scenery enthusiasts, fans of vintage rides, and those who enjoy relaxed sightseeing. It’s also a good option if you want a rundown of Mallorca’s coast, mountains, and villages without the stress of planning each segment.

Considerations and Drawbacks

Some reviews point out that the short durations at each stop don’t allow for deep exploration, and weather-dependent boat trips could be canceled, limiting the experience. Also, the organizational issues—like delays or missed pickups—have been reported, so punctuality is key.

Final Thoughts

This scenic tour offers a beautiful, if somewhat rushed, introduction to Mallorca’s coast and countryside. Its strength is in the variety of transport, from vintage trains to scenic boat rides, making it a visual feast. The guides’ professionalism, especially guides like Vivianne and Antonio, stands out as a highlight.

If you’re seeking a laid-back day filled with stunning views and don’t mind brief visits and some logistical constraints, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly well-suited for photographers, vintage train enthusiasts, and those who enjoy coastal scenery from multiple perspectives.

However, if you want more time at each destination or a more in-depth exploration, consider alternative options like Mallorca’s Grand Tour, which offers longer stopovers and a more flexible pace.

In sum, for value, scenic variety, and ease of access, this tour delivers a memorable day out. Just prepare for the quick stops and potential weather hiccups, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of beautiful photos and stories.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You should plan to bring snacks or plan for a meal during your day.

How long are the stops at each location?
Most stops are brief, typically between 15 minutes to 2 hours, which may not be enough for extensive exploring.

What transport modes are used during the tour?
The tour uses a combination of coach, boat, tram, and vintage train, each offering different scenic and nostalgic perspectives.

Can the boat trip be canceled due to weather?
Yes, the boat trip is weather-dependent. If canceled, an alternative route by road will be offered.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, provided they can walk at least 3 km during the day.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour tends to be booked around 24 days before, so early booking is recommended, especially during peak season.

Are pickup options available?
Pickup is offered, but the meeting point is also clearly specified at Camí de l’Escullera in Palma.

What are the main attractions?
Highlights include the Tramuntana mountains, Sa Calobra, the coastal boat trip, Port Soller, Soller town, and the vintage train ride.

What is the overall value of this tour?
While some may find the brief stops limiting, the included transportation and scenic routes make it a good value for those wanting a visual overview of Mallorca’s stunning coast and mountain scenery.

In the end, this tour is a scenic sampler of Mallorca’s best views—a relaxing ride through mountains, coastlines, and charming villages. Perfect for those who love seeing the landscape from several angles, it’s a day to capture memories and enjoy the island’s natural beauty without the fuss of long exploration.