Itinerary Aug 8-15th

Tips for the Trip

  • Transportation: We should Consider renting three cars or a minibus for easier group transportation.
  • Health and Safety: Ensure everyone has travel insurance and knows the location of the nearest medical facilities.
  • Eclipse Viewing: Bring proper eclipse glasses and check the weather forecast for optimal viewing conditions.
  • Local Cuisine: Try local specialties like Paella, Sobrasada, and Ensaimada.

Best Routes

Here’s a detailed 7-day itinerary for your trip to Majorca, Spain, including the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026:

Tips for Your Trip

  • Eclipse Viewing: Ensure you have proper eclipse glasses and check the weather forecast in advance.
  • Transportation: Consider renting a car for easy travel around the island.
  • Local Markets: Visit local markets for fresh produce, seafood, and specialties to cook your meals.
  • Cultural Sites: Book any necessary tickets in advance, especially for popular sites like Palma Cathedral or Bellver Castle.

General Tips

Day 1: August 8 (Arrival in Palma)

  • Morning/Afternoon: Arrival
    • Arrive in Palma de Mallorca.
    • Pick up your rental car and drive to your rented house.
    • Settle in and relax at the house, or take a short walk around the neighborhood.
  • Evening: Welcome Dinner
    • We prepare a home-cooked meal or dine at a nearby restaurant focusing on grilled meats, salads, and fresh vegetables.

Day 2: August 9 (Explore Palma de Mallorca)

  • Morning: Explore Palma
    • Visit Palma Cathedral (La Seu) and take a walk around the old town.
    • Stop by Bellver Castle for panoramic views of Palma.
  • Afternoon: Lunch and Shopping
    • Have lunch at a local tapas bar, ensuring there are lactose-free and low-FODMAP options like grilled meats or seafood.
    • Spend the afternoon shopping in the local markets or relaxing in the old town.
  • Evening: Dinner at Portixol
    • Enjoy a scenic walk at the Portixol area and have dinner at a seaside restaurant that accommodates dietary needs.

Day 3: August 10 (Beach Day and maybe a hike)

  • Morning: Es Trenc Beach
    • Spend the morning at Es Trenc, one of Majorca’s most beautiful beaches, with clear waters and soft sand.
  • Afternoon: Picnic Lunch then hike
    • Pack a picnic such as grilled chicken, salad, and gluten-free bread.
  • Evening: Return and Relax
    • Enjoy a simple dinner back at the house, perhaps grilling fish or meat and serving with steamed vegetables and rice.
  • Seconday plan take the antique train to Soller and spend the day at the beach and exploring the town

Day 4: August 11 (Valldemossa and Deià Villages)

  • Morning: Visit Valldemossa
    • Explore the charming village of Valldemossa, visit the monastery, and enjoy a walk around the picturesque streets.
  • Afternoon: Deià
    • Drive to Deià, a beautiful mountain village. Have lunch at a local restaurant that offers fresh, lactose-free, and IBS-friendly dishes.
  • Evening: Return to the House
    • Relax at the house and prepare a light dinner. Consider making a simple vegetable and rice stir-fry or grilling fresh seafood.

Day 5: August 12 (Total Solar Eclipse Day)

  • Morning: Relax or Local Market Visit
    • Visit a local market to pick up fresh ingredients for the day. Explore the area or relax at the house in the morning.
  • Afternoon: Prepare for the Eclipse
    • Set up a comfortable viewing area at the house for the 8 PM eclipse. We will be within walking distance to the beach for a better view if needed.
  • Evening: Total Solar Eclipse
    • At 8:00 PM, witness the total solar eclipse. Follow it with a special eclipse-themed dinner, such as seafood paella (with lactose-free alternatives).

Alternate plan do a Sunset cruise with Captain Cook Sailing. 3-4 hours with food and drinks included. Cost about $150 per person. We see the eclipse from the ocean on a boat.

  •  

    • Day 6: August 13 (Alcudia and Pollensa Day Trip)

    • Morning: Explore Alcudia
      • Visit the ancient Roman ruins in Alcudia and stroll through the old town.
    • Afternoon: Pollensa
      • Have lunch at a restaurant in Pollensa, and explore the charming streets. Climb the 365 Calvari Steps for a scenic view.
    • Evening: Return and Relax
      • Return to the house for a relaxed evening. Prepare a comforting meal like baked chicken with vegetables and a side of quinoa or rice.

    Day 7: August 14 (Serra de Tramuntana Scenic Drive)

    • Morning: Drive through the Serra de Tramuntana Mountains or take the antique train to Soller
      • Take a scenic drive through the Serra de Tramuntana, stopping at viewpoints and small villages like Sóller or Fornalutx.
    • Afternoon: Lunch in the Mountains
      • Have lunch at a mountain restaurant with fresh salads, grilled meats, and gluten-free options.
    • Evening: Farewell Dinner
      • Prepare a farewell dinner at the house, featuring a simple yet special meal like grilled fish, roasted vegetables, and a gluten-free dessert such as a fruit salad or lactose-free sorbet.

    Day 8: August 15 (Departure Day)

    • Morning: Last-Minute Relaxation
      • Enjoy a relaxed morning, either walking along the beach or exploring a local town before packing up.
    • Afternoon: Departure
      • Head to Palma Airport for your flight home.

    hiking trails less than 2 hours away

    Yes, there are several excellent hiking trails within a 2-hour drive from Palma, and many are located in the stunning Serra de Tramuntana mountain range. Here are some hiking options suitable for a group of your size and age, all relatively close to Palma:

    1. Torrent de Pareis (Sa Calobra)

    • Distance from Palma: 1.5 hours by car
    • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (depending on section)
    • Duration: 3-5 hours (round trip)
    • Description: One of Majorca’s most iconic hikes, Torrent de Pareis takes you through a dramatic gorge, ending at the beautiful beach of Sa Calobra. The hike can be rocky and requires some scrambling, but it’s a rewarding adventure through stunning limestone cliffs. It might be more challenging for some in your group, so you can explore part of the trail and then relax on the beach.

    2. Cúber Reservoir to Tossals Verds Refuge

    • Distance from Palma: 1 hour by car
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Duration: 3-4 hours (round trip)
    • Description: Starting at the beautiful Cúber Reservoir, this trail offers breathtaking views of the Tramuntana Mountains and leads to the Tossals Verds Refuge. It’s a relatively easy hike with some elevation gain, but the scenery makes it worth it. The refuge is a great spot to stop for a break.

    3. Camí de s’Arxiduc (Archduke’s Trail) – Valldemossa

    • Distance from Palma: 30 minutes by car
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Duration: 3-4 hours (loop)
    • Description: This trail begins in the charming village of Valldemossa and offers panoramic views of both the coast and mountains. The Archduke’s Trail was created in the 19th century and is known for its scenic beauty. It’s a good mix of forest paths and open views over the sea.

    4. Puig de Maria (Pollensa)

    • Distance from Palma: 50 minutes by car
    • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
    • Duration: 1-2 hours (round trip)
    • Description: This short but steep hike leads to the top of Puig de Maria, where you’ll find a small monastery and incredible views of Pollensa and the surrounding area. It’s a relatively quick hike but offers great rewards for the effort, making it perfect for a half-day outing.

    5. Sa Foradada (Deià)

    • Distance from Palma: 40 minutes by car
    • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
    • Duration: 2-3 hours (round trip)
    • Description: This trail is relatively easy and takes you from the village of Deià to the iconic rock formation of Sa Foradada, which juts into the Mediterranean. The path offers beautiful coastal views, and you can stop for a meal or drink at the Mirador de Sa Foradada restaurant after your hike.

    6. Cami de Castell d’Alaró

    • Distance from Palma: 30-45 minutes by car
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Duration: 3-4 hours (round trip)
    • Description: This hike takes you to the ruins of the ancient Castell d’Alaró, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains. It’s a bit of a climb but manageable, and there’s a restaurant at the top where you can rest.

    7. Es Grau (Puigpunyent)

    • Distance from Palma: 30 minutes by car
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Duration: 4-5 hours (round trip)
    • Description: Starting from the village of Puigpunyent, this hike leads to the peak of Es Grau. The trail passes through pine forests and offers wonderful views of the Tramuntana mountains and the coastline.

    These trails range from easy to moderate, and you can choose based on the fitness levels of your group. Additionally, all of them are within two hours of Palma, making them perfect for a day trip. You can bring snacks, water, and other essentials, and some trails even have cafés or restaurants along the way.

    You said:

    How do I charge my ev rental car

    ChatGPT said:

    ChatGPT

    Charging an EV rental car in Majorca is straightforward, as the island has an increasing number of electric vehicle charging stations. Here’s how you can charge your EV rental:

    1. Types of Charging Stations

    • Public Charging Stations: Available throughout Majorca, including in Palma, at shopping centers, hotels, parking lots, and key tourist spots.
    • Home Charging: If your rental house has a garage or dedicated parking spot, check if there’s a regular power outlet (slow charging) or, in rare cases, a dedicated charging point.
    • Fast Chargers: Some stations offer fast charging, which can recharge your car in 30-60 minutes.

    2. Popular Charging Networks in Majorca

    • IB-Roads (Endesa X): Endesa X is a popular EV charging network on the island. You can find stations across Majorca, including Palma, Alcudia, and popular tourist destinations.
    • Electromaps: Use the Electromaps app or website to find nearby charging stations, including availability, type of charger, and pricing.
    • Tesla Superchargers: If you’re renting a Tesla, there are Tesla Supercharger stations near Palma and other areas on the island.
    • Hotels/Resorts: Some hotels and resorts offer EV charging points for guests, so check if any stops on your itinerary have EV amenities.

    3. How to Charge Your EV

    1. Download the Charging Apps:
      • Download apps such as Electromaps or Endesa X to find charging stations, start charging, and pay. These apps show real-time station availability.
    2. Payment Options:
      • Payment is usually done via app, with some stations accepting credit cards directly. Be sure to check if you need an RFID card from the rental company or charging network.
    3. Types of Chargers:
      • Type 2 (AC): Common in Europe for standard charging.
      • CCS Combo (DC): For fast charging, available at many public stations.
    4. Plug In:
      • Connect the car to the charging station. Charging cables may be provided with the vehicle, but most stations also have their own cables.
    5. Charging Time:
      • Standard charging can take a few hours (6-8 hours for a full charge), while fast charging takes about 30-60 minutes to reach 80% capacity.

    4. Where to Find Charging Stations

    • Palma City Center: Many public parking garages have EV charging stations.
    • Shopping Centers: For example, Porto Pi Shopping Center has EV chargers.
    • Tourist Areas: Major towns like Alcudia, Sóller, and Pollensa have charging points.
    • Highway Rest Stops: Charging stations are available along main roads connecting the island’s major towns.

    5. Useful Tips

    • Plan Ahead: Since EV stations can be busier during peak times, plan your charging stops in advance, especially during longer trips around the island.
    • Charging Etiquette: Don’t leave your car at a charging point longer than necessary, especially at fast chargers, to ensure availability for others.
    • Rental Company Support: Your EV rental company can provide details on charging locations and how to charge your specific model. Some may even give you a charging card for easy access.

    By using these tips, you’ll be able to explore Majorca without worrying about running low on charge!

    You said:

    Give me a list of outdoor markets within walking distance of Carrer de l’Illa de Rodes, 18 07007 Palma Balearic Isles, Spain

    ChatGPT said:

    ChatGPT

    Here’s a list of outdoor markets within walking distance or a short commute from Carrer de l’Illa de Rodes, 18, 07007 Palma, in Majorca:

    1. Mercat de Pere Garau

    • Distance: About 10-15 minutes’ walk (approx. 1 km)
    • Description: This is a traditional local market offering a wide range of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. You’ll also find stalls selling clothing, household items, and local delicacies.
    • Days Open: Monday to Saturday
    • Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM

    2. Mercat de l’Olivar

    • Distance: A 25-minute walk (approx. 2.5 km) or a 10-minute drive
    • Description: One of Palma’s largest and most popular indoor and outdoor markets, Mercat de l’Olivar offers fresh seafood, meat, fruit, and vegetables, as well as a wide variety of local products. There’s also a food court where you can sample tapas and other local dishes.
    • Days Open: Monday to Saturday
    • Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM

    3. Mercat de Santa Catalina

    • Distance: About a 40-minute walk (approx. 3.5 km) or 10 minutes by car
    • Description: Located in the vibrant Santa Catalina neighborhood, this market is known for its fresh local produce, seafood, meats, and baked goods. It’s also a great place to enjoy some local snacks or lunch after shopping.
    • Days Open: Monday to Saturday
    • Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM

    4. Mercat de Pere Grau

    • Distance: A 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive (approx. 1.5 km)
    • Description: Similar to Pere Garau Market but smaller, this local market is known for its fresh produce, meats, and clothing stalls. You’ll find various fresh vegetables and fruits, along with traditional Majorcan products.
    • Days Open: Monday to Saturday
    • Hours: 8:00 AM – 1:30 PM

    5. Rata Market (Artisan Market)

    • Distance: 30-minute walk or 10 minutes by car
    • Description: This is a seasonal pop-up market featuring local artisans, handmade goods, crafts, and food stalls. It’s an excellent place to buy unique souvenirs and support local craftsmanship.
    • Days Open: Check online for specific dates, as it’s a seasonal market.

    6. Placa Major Craft Market

    • Distance: 30-minute walk (approx. 2.5 km) or 10 minutes by car
    • Description: Located in the heart of Palma, the Placa Major craft market is perfect for handmade goods, local crafts, and artisan souvenirs. It’s a great spot for shopping and people-watching.
    • Days Open: Every day (with more stalls on weekends)
    • Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

    These markets offer a variety of fresh local produce, artisan products, and traditional Majorcan foods, all within a short distance from your location.