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Mallorca Solar Eclipse 2026

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Island will offer one of Europe’s most remarkable seats for this rare celestial event – but where should you watch it from?! Credit: Shutterstock/shabir5645

On Wednesday August 12 2026, Mallorca will become one of the few places in Europe to witness a total solar eclipse, with around 90 seconds of totality transforming the island’s skies just before sunset. But unlike many astronomical events, the best view won’t simply depend on where you are on the island, it will depend on whether you have a clear view of the western horizon.

Because the eclipse reaches totality as the sun sits just a few degrees above the horizon, even a nearby hill, apartment block or line of trees could block the most dramatic moments. However, an open west-facing coastline or elevated viewpoint could provide a spectacular front-row seat to one of Europe’s rarest celestial events.

Fortunately, planning that perfect view has become much easier. Rather than recommending one official viewing spot, AstroMallorca, the island’s leading astronomy association, has launched Horitzó 2026, a free online tool that allows residents and visitors to check whether the eclipse will be visible from their chosen location. By analysing the surrounding terrain, the website helps users find a viewing point with a clear western horizon before eclipse day.

The Balearic Government is also working alongside AstroMallorca, local councils and emergency services to prepare around 30 designated Safe Observation Zones across the Balearic Islands, with the locations expected to be announced closer to the event.

The areas expected to offer Mallorca’s clearest views

Although there is no official list of “best places” to watch the eclipse, Mallorca’s geography naturally favours some parts of the island over others.

The Serra de Tramuntana is widely regarded as offering some of the strongest viewing conditions thanks to its elevated west-facing slopes overlooking the Mediterranean. Municipalities including Andratx, Banyalbufar, Estellencs, Deià, Valldemossa, Sóller, Fornalutx, Escorca and Pollença all benefit from topography that provides open views towards the setting Sun.

The southwest coast is also expected to offer excellent visibility, particularly where the coastline opens directly onto the sea.

Further south, the stretch between Cap de Regana and Cap Blanc, together with the coastline from Colònia de Sant Jordi to Cap de ses Salines, provides long, uninterrupted horizons with very little surrounding terrain, making these areas another strong option for eclipse viewing.

Rather than chasing one famous landmark, astronomers say almost any safe location with an open western horizon could provide an exceptional experience.

Best places in Mallorca to see the eclipse
Map created by Amado Carbonell Santos. Astronomer at the FIAAM.
Credit: FIAMM

Will Palma still get a good view?

Yes but choosing the right location will be more important than choosing the right town.

Palma sits within the path of totality and is expected to experience around one minute and 36 seconds of darkness.

However, because the Sun will be so low above the horizon, visibility may vary significantly across the city. Waterfront areas with open views towards the west are likely to offer a better experience than streets where buildings, trees or surrounding hills block the skyline.

The same advice applies to Calvià and Llucmajor, where careful positioning may be the difference between witnessing totality or missing it altogether.

Some inland locations may offer weaker views

While the eclipse will technically be visible across Mallorca, not every part of the island offers the same viewing conditions.

Inland valleys and areas surrounded by higher ground may experience partially obstructed views because of the island’s topography. Since totality occurs just minutes before sunset, even relatively low hills can hide the Sun before the most dramatic phase begins.

For anyone staying inland, it may be worth travelling to a nearby coastal viewpoint or elevated west-facing location with a clearer horizon.

What time will the eclipse happen?

The eclipse will take place during the evening of August 12, 2026, with the partial phase beginning at around 7.30pm.

Totality is expected at approximately 8.30-8.31pm, lasting around 90 seconds, before the sun sets just a few minutes later.

Because the eclipse happens so close to sunset, Mallorca’s western horizon becomes just as important as the weather forecast.

Special eclipse experiences already on sale

Several Mallorca businesses are already preparing special experiences for the event.

The historic Sóller Railway has launched an exclusive €220 eclipse package, including a journey on its iconic wooden train from Palma, a tram ride through Sóller and a boat trip from the Port of Sóller to watch the eclipse from the Mediterranean.

Meanwhile, the historic sailing vessel Rafael Verdera is offering both day trips and multi-day eclipse voyages, allowing passengers to experience totality from open water with uninterrupted views of the horizon.

Plan ahead for eclipse day

Astronomers say a little preparation could make a huge difference.

Choose a location with a completely unobstructed west-facing horizon, rather than simply heading to the island’s most famous viewpoint.

Arrive early, especially if you’re planning to watch from the Serra de Tramuntana or the southwest coast, as roads, parking areas and popular viewpoints are expected to become extremely busy.

Only use certified eclipse glasses when viewing the sun outside the brief period of totality, and if you’re photographing the event, make sure your camera is fitted with an appropriate solar filter.

Visitors should also expect accommodation and transport demand to increase significantly during eclipse week, with many organised excursions already on sale.

For around 90 remarkable seconds, daylight will disappear over Mallorca before the Sun sinks below the Mediterranean. The island’s own astronomers say the secret isn’t finding the most famous viewpoint… it’s finding the clearest horizon.

Mallorca eclipse checklist

✔ Pick your viewpoint early
Don’t wait until eclipse day. Visit your chosen location beforehand and check that you have a completely unobstructed view of the western horizon.

✔ Aim for the west coast or south coast
Areas in the Serra de Tramuntana, the southwest coast and the coastline between Cap de Regana, Cap Blanc and Colònia de Sant Jordi are expected to offer some of Mallorca’s clearest horizons.

✔ Check your exact position
Even within the same town, visibility can vary. A nearby building, hillside or line of trees could block the low evening Sun.

✔ Arrive well ahead of time
Roads, parking and popular viewpoints are expected to be extremely busy. If you’re heading to the Tramuntana, Cap Blanc or another well-known location, allow several extra hours.

✔ Pack the essentials

  • Certified solar eclipse glasses
  • Water and snacks
  • Sun cream and a hat
  • Fully charged phone and power bank
  • Fold-up chair or picnic blanket
  • Torch if you’re walking back after sunset

✔ Watch the timing

  • Partial eclipse begins: around 7.30pm
  • Totality: around 8.30–8.31pm
  • Duration of totality: around 90 seconds
  • Sunset follows just minutes later

✔ Stay safe
Never look directly at the sun without certified eclipse glasses, except during the brief period of totality.

✔ Expect a busy island
Hotels, restaurants, public transport and organised excursions are expected to be much busier than a normal August evening, so book ahead wherever possible.

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Salobreña Residents Gain Voice In New Circular Economy Strategy

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Salobreña rubbish collection. Credit: Ayt de Salobreña

Salobreña Council has launched its citizen participation process to develop its Local Circular Economy Plan. The initiative carries the slogan “Your opinion counts to build a more sustainable Salobreña”. Councillors hope to create a practical roadmap that makes the town more efficient while protecting the environment for years ahead.

Circular economy principles at core of plan

Circular economy thinking focuses on cutting waste through greater reuse and recycling. It also hopes to get smarter use of resources and the creation of fresh economic and social chances. Adopting this approach supports daily life improvements for people in Salobreña. It safeguards the natural surroundings that define the area. Innovation receives promotion, and long-term development becomes possible for current residents plus future generations.

Councillor stresses value of local knowledge

Councillor Luis Cano, who leads the area, described citizen input as essential. He said that participation helps identify what matters most and reveals actual needs. Actions can then match real challenges because local people understand Salobreña opportunities better than anyone else. Cano added that neighbours and businesses should join the effort. Working together produces a more responsible place ready to face future demands.

Benefits expected across Salobreña community

The plan targets practical gains in several areas. Waste reduction frees up space and lowers costs for households and firms. Reuse and recycling habits build cleaner streets and beaches that attract visitors. Resource optimisation lowers energy and material bills over time. New opportunities appear in repair services, green products and local projects that employ people. Overall quality of life rises when the environment stays healthy and innovation spreads through schools and small enterprises. Future generations inherit a place organised around lasting balance rather than constant disposal.

Participation process now open to all

Town hall staff want every voice heard during this stage. Proposals, ideas and suggestions will shape a plan that fits Salobreña conditions exactly. Residents can share thoughts on daily waste habits, business practices or community spaces. Businesses can get chances to suggest changes that cut costs while meeting environmental goals. Associations and groups bring perspectives from different neighbourhoods. All contributions help build ownership so the final document reflects genuine priorities rather than top-down ideas alone.

Path forward for sustainable Salobreña

This process marks the start of wider conversations about daily habits and municipal decisions. Early input now influences later actions on collection systems, repair networks and education campaigns. Salobreña makes itself meet national and regional circular economy targets through grounded local work. Continued resident involvement keeps the plan relevant as conditions change. The result should deliver measurable progress on waste volumes, resource use and community wellbeing across the whole area.

Local people in Salobreña can take part through several straightforward routes. They visit the official participation platform at salobrenaparticipa.es to submit proposals and follow progress on the circular economy plan. Social media posts from the council include a QR code that links directly to more details and input forms. Residents also contact the participation office by email at participacion@salobrenaparticipa.es or by calling the main number 958 610 011. Upcoming workshops offer chances to discuss ideas in person with councillors and staff. Formal suggestions go through the electronic headquarters at sede.ayto-salobrena.es for official recording.

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World’s First Ship Tunnel Through Mountain Wins Approval In Norway

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Ship emerges from the mountains. Credit: kystverket.no

Norway has finally given approval for construction of the world’s first maritime tunnel intended for massive ships. Project planners chose a route that cuts through a mountain on the Stadlandet peninsula. Clear benefits in safety and efficiency now await coastal shipping operations.

Vessels trading in western Norway currently face serious challenges from the Stadhavet Sea. Storms affect the area for about 100 days each year. Norwegian authorities class this stretch as one of the most dangerous on the planet. Those conditions create high costs, delays and real risks for passenger ferries, fishing vessels and cargo carriers. The new tunnel removes that exposure by providing an inland alternative between two fjords.

Safety improvements for maritime traffic

Crews will get a calmer and more controlled environment for the short crossing. Passenger services will become more reliable and dependable because operators no longer depend on favourable weather windows. Fishing boats and cargo ships will be able to avoid physical strain and damage from rough conditions on hulls and equipment. Everyone on board benefits from the protection the mountain provides against wind and waves, albeit in the darkness of a tunnel passing under a mountain range.

Economic benefits for fishing and exports

Operating costs fall when ships take the shorter protected route instead of longer detours or waiting periods. Salmon exporters in particular will see advantages from quicker and cheaper transport of their catch to markets. The fishing industry gains a practical tool supporting steadier production and delivery. Steady schedules help maintain Norway’s reputation for reliable seafood supply chains.

Completion date and what lies ahead

Construction has been now planned for 2027 and will run at least until 2032. Users of the future route can look forward to a straightforward ten-minute passage free of charge from that year onward. Regular services including cruise ships will have access to this new option along Norway’s coastline. Crews and visitors can look forward to trying the new route once it opens officially in 2032.

Tunnel size and crossing experience

The bored rock section will measure 1.7 kilometres, while the total length rises to 2.2 kilometres once water-based entrance structures are included. Internal dimensions provide generous clearance with a height of 50 metres and a width of 36 metres. Capacity covers ships up to 16,000 gross tonnes. Travel proceeds at speeds between five and eight knots throughout the journey.

Design accommodates regular traffic from fishing boats, ferries and cruise ships without issue

The Norwegian Coastal Administration is overseeing the entire project. This infrastructure represents an important step in modernising maritime connections in a region long affected by difficult sea conditions. Once finished, crews and passengers gain a welcome change from traditional exposed routes.

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Berlin Police Deploy Water Cannons To Cool Residents Off

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Crowd control: Berlin police deploy water cannon to cool people down. Credit: Viktar Malishevsky X

Police in Berlin have deployed water cannons into the streets to spray fine mist over people seeking some sort of relief from soaring temperatures this weekend. Officers began operations at the Brandenburg Gate before moving on to Potsdamer Platz and other central locations. They had already dispensed 9,000 litres by mid-afternoon and paused to refill tanks before continuing patrols.

Temperatures break previous records

Temperatures climbed sharply across the capital region on Saturday, June 27. The weather station at Berlin-Tempelhof recorded 39.5ºC, beating the prior high of 38.6ºC set in Koepenick during 2015. Potsdam reached 39.9ºC on the same day. Forecasters warned that readings could touch 41ºC before long, with conditions remaining oppressive for the coming week.

Pools reach capacity as crowds seek relief

Outdoor swimming pools filled rapidly, forcing many facilities to turn people away by early afternoon. Visitors reported long waits and frustration at several sites, including one in Wilmersdorf. Indoor options faced similar pressure. Staff at the historic Charlottenburg baths stopped selling tickets around 4.30pm, leaving long queues waiting outside in the hope of entry. Some swimmers considered trying other indoor venues instead.

Emergency services handle rise in heat-related calls

Fire and rescue teams responded to more incidents than usual throughout Saturday. Crews dealt mainly with circulatory complaints, cardiac arrests and problems at swimming spots. A spokesperson said that Friday had already produced over 300 extra calls compared with normal levels for the time of year, and Saturday followed a comparable pattern.

Motorway melt forcing major diversions

Heat damage worsened on the A2 motorway linking Brandenburg with Saxony-Anhalt. Police closed successive junctions near Ziesar after sections of the surface deteriorated to the point where safe driving became impossible. Traffic diverted onto local roads, creating even further congestion on alternative routes. Drivers received strong advice to avoid the motorway altogether, as mapping apps showed inaccurate delay times. Those who travelled anyway were urged to carry extra water, food and any essential medication.

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