Cap de Formentor is the dramatic northern tip of Mallorca, a long peninsula where the Serra de Tramuntana plunges into the sea in cliffs and pine slopes. The road to the lighthouse is one of Europe's great scenic drives, with switchbacks, tunnels and viewpoints such as the Mirador es Colomer, high above turquoise water. A combined day trip takes in a traditional town market, a boat ride along the coast and time at the cape, which makes it one of the most complete ways to see the north without driving yourself. The scenery is the main draw, and it rewards photographers and anyone who loves coastal landscapes.
How it works
The trip departs by coach from resorts around the island, normally in the morning, and returns in the late afternoon. The itinerary generally includes a stop at a market town such as Pollença or Alcúdia, time at the sea for a boat excursion in the bay and a visit to viewpoints on the Formentor road. Pick-up points, market days and the order of stops vary, so check the details when you book.
What to expect
The road is narrow and winding, and the viewpoints are windy, so bring a light jacket even on a warm day. The boat ride gives a different angle on the cliffs and a chance to see coves that are hard to reach by land. Market time is free, so you can browse leather, ceramics and food stalls or sit at a café. Days are long, and a hat, sunscreen and water are sensible. Travellers who get car sick should take precautions for the coach and the boat.
Making the most of it
Sit on the left side of the coach going out for the best sea views on the cape road, and use your market time to try local cheese, olives or a coffee in the square. If the day includes a stop at Formentor beach, bring swimwear. Late afternoon light on the cliffs is wonderful for photos, so keep your camera ready.
Good to know
The cape is exposed, and in strong wind boats can change route or be cancelled. The peninsula road has restrictions in the busiest summer months that favour buses, which is another reason to go with an organised trip. Combine this with a quiet evening, since the day is long, and note that a visit in spring or autumn is cooler and less crowded.
Some extra planning is worthwhile. Check which market day your tour falls on, because Pollença holds a large Sunday market and Alcúdia has markets on Tuesday and Sunday, and the atmosphere differs on other days. Bring cash for small purchases, and carry a lightweight rain jacket, as the north can catch weather that the south misses.
Photographers should aim for the viewpoints in the morning when the cliffs are lit from the side, and a polarising filter helps bring out the colour of the water. Anyone sensitive to heights should know that the Mirador es Colomer sits on a very exposed ledge, with barriers but a big drop.
Planning ahead
Places on Cap de Formentor can sell out in the busy months, so it is sensible to reserve once your dates are fixed, and it helps to keep a flexible day in your schedule in case weather or sea conditions change. If your plans shift, check the cancellation and rescheduling terms when you book, and arrive a little early on the day so that you start relaxed and have time to ask the staff any last questions.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day coach and boat excursion to the north of Mallorca.
Best time
Spring or autumn for cooler weather, or any clear day.
How long
About eight hours.
Tips
Bring a jacket, sun protection and swimwear, and sit on the sea side of the coach.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Scenery lovers who do not want to drive the mountain roads.
- Families
- Children do well if they cope with winding roads.
- Couples
- Cliffs, sea and a relaxed market stop.
- Pair with
- Time in Pollença or Alcúdia old town.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
What does the trip include?+
Typically a local market stop, a boat excursion and viewpoints along the Formentor road, but check the itinerary when you book.
How long is the day?+
About eight hours, including travel.
Do I need swimwear?+
It is useful if the day includes a beach or swim stop.
Is the road scary?+
It is winding and exposed in places, but the coach drivers know it well.
What if it is windy?+
Boat trips can change or be cancelled in rough weather, so ask the operator about the alternative.
