ABOUT THIS EPISODE
On Wednesday 12 August 2026, Mallorca will experience one of the most remarkable natural events of our lifetime: a total solar eclipse.
However, seeing it will not be as simple as walking outside and looking up.
The eclipse will reach totality shortly before sunset, when the Sun is extremely low in the west-north-western sky. Across much of Mallorca, the Serra de Tramuntana, local hills, buildings and vegetation could completely block the view.
In this episode, Oliver is joined by Majorca Mallorca group contributor Nick Brown, who has studied the island’s geography, viewing angles and official eclipse planning in impressive detail.
They discuss:
• Why the eclipse will be difficult to see from parts of Mallorca
• Which areas may offer a clearer view
• Why Palma city centre and much of northern Mallorca could be problematic
• The official traffic restrictions affecting the Serra de Tramuntana
• Why driving across the island could be a serious mistake
• The additional risks posed by August heat and forest fires
• What boat owners and charter guests need to consider
• How to check whether the eclipse will be visible from your location
• How to protect your eyes while watching it
The eclipse begins in Palma at approximately 19:38, with the maximum occurring at around 20:32, shortly before sunset. The official advice is to plan early, remain close to your accommodation where possible and avoid unnecessary journeys.
Since recording this conversation, we have checked the official eclipse safety guidance. Do not point a phone camera, photographic camera, binoculars or a telescope directly at the Sun unless the equipment has a suitable professional solar filter. The safest options are certified eclipse glasses used according to their instructions or an indirect projection method.
Please remember that looking directly at the Sun can cause permanent and irreversible damage to your eyesight. Use properly certified eclipse glasses or a safe indirect projection method.
You can also read the detailed blog which is updated with the latest information here https://majorca-mallorca.es/events/mallorca-solar-eclipse-2026-where-to-watch-and-how-to-prepare/
Official Balearic Government eclipse information
Horizonte Eclipse 2026 visibility tool
Spanish National Geographic Institute eclipse information
IGN eclipse viewing and eye-safety guidance
https://eclipses.ign.es/como-observar-eclipses.html
..and here is how to make an eclipse viewer from a Pringles tube, it works best with sour cream and onion.
https://youtube.com/shorts/5DBjU573gm4?si=beQxwE9JAOZJoviC
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