This historic Mallorcan valley town connects to Palma by a vintage wooden train from 1912. Orange groves and limestone mountains frame its modernist buildings.
Sóller lies in a valley of the Tramuntana mountains on Mallorca's northwest coast. Orange and lemon trees fill the surrounding groves, while the town's grey stone buildings with green shutters create a distinctive look. In the main square, Plaça Constitució, you can drink fresh orange juice at Ca'n Godo café while watching the vintage wooden tram pass by. The 1912 mountain railway connects Sóller to Palma through tunnels and passes, giving you views of olive groves and limestone cliffs along the way.
Getting Around Sóller
The mountain railway from Palma travels through 13 tunnels before arriving at Sóller's station. Inside the station, you'll find a small museum with original Picasso ceramics and Miró paintings. The wooden tram – known locally as the "Orange Express" – departs from here and travels through orange groves to Port de Sóller's beach promenade. Both transport methods date back to 1912, when they were essential for moving citrus fruits to Palma's markets.
The Town Center
Plaça Constitució is the main square where locals meet at cafes under plane trees. The Church of Sant Bartomeu dominates one side, its 1904 facade designed by Joan Rubió, who studied under Gaudí. Look for the rose window and carved stone details. The 1912 Banco de Sóller building next door has decorative balconies and stone carvings of fruit and flowers.
Walking in the Tramuntana Mountains
Stone paths connect villages and old farms throughout the mountains. The 4-hour trail to Cala Tuent takes you along coastal cliffs with views of the Mediterranean. For an easier walk, follow the 2-hour path to Fornalutx and Biniaraix, where you'll pass terraced olive groves and stone houses with red roof tiles. Yellow and white stripes mark all major trails.
Local Food and Markets
Every Saturday, farmers sell oranges, olives, and sobrasada sausage in Plaça Constitució. At Ecovinyassa orange farm, farmers explain their cultivation methods and you can taste freshly pressed juice. Sa Lluna street has several food shops, including Colmado sa Lluna, where you'll find local olive oil, preserved lemons, and Mallorcan wines.
Art and Architecture
Can Prunera museum occupies a 1911 mansion with original furniture and decorative tiles. The art collection includes works by Picasso, Miró, and local artists. Along Gran Via, look for the early 1900s houses built by returning emigrants - their facades decorated with carved flowers and fruit motifs, reflecting the wealth from French trade.
