Date of the solar eclipse and the best places to see it in Mallorca & Menorca
There are moments and emotions that last only minutes, yet memory holds onto them forever. The next total solar eclipse will be visible in northern and eastern Spain, and promises to be one of those rare experiences — and Mallorca offers a perfect setting from which to witness it.
On August 12, 2026, the island will experience a historic spectacle that will completely transform its light and landscape, creating a scene that is hard to forget. A unique experience that can also be enjoyed in Menorca, where open landscapes and clear skies offer an exceptional setting to witness it.
Choosing the right time and the perfect vantage point is essential to experiencing the eclipse in all its glory. Here you’ll find everything you need to embrace a once‑in‑a‑lifetime spectacle — one that will not return for more than 150 years.
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When will the eclipse happen?
Mark the date in bold: the next total solar eclipse will take place on August 12, 2026. On that evening, the sky will stage an extraordinary celestial alignment — the moon slipping between Earth and the sun, revealing the ethereal glow of the solar corona.
In Mallorca, the spectacle will coincide with sunset, with the sun resting low on the horizon — a moment when Mediterranean light is at its most dramatic. For a few magical minutes, day will dissolve into night. From select points on the island, the sun will be completely obscured.
A phenomenon unseen since 1905, and one that will not return until 2180 — though before then, the island will still witness a partial eclipse and an annular eclipse, where the moon leaves a luminous ring of fire around the sun.
Key facts about the solar eclipse in Mallorca
- Date: August 12, 26
- Time: Start of the partial eclipse from 7:38pm
- Total eclipse: between 8:30 and 8:34pm
Mallorca, the perfect setting
To witness a solar eclipse in Mallorca is not only to observe a rare astronomical event, but to experience a visual and emotional moment unlike any other — with the Mediterranean as a luminous backdrop. Coinciding with sunset and facing the open sea, the island becomes an extraordinary amphitheatre where darkness gently descends during the final breath of daylight. A scene that lingers in the mind long after it fades.
As the eclipse sweeps across the peninsula from west to east, its journey will culminate over the Balearic Islands at sunset, allowing you to watch the light slowly dissolve into the horizon. Mallorca also lies close to the path of greatest intensity, ensuring a particularly striking view of the phenomenon.
And then there are the island’s natural advantages: a mild Mediterranean climate, clear skies, and countless open spaces — from dramatic cliffs to wide, unbroken beaches — offering unobstructed views of this celestial spectacle.
Where to see the eclipse in Mallorca
To witness the eclipse in all its splendour, choosing the right vantage point is essential. The experience will vary depending on the location, the sun’s position at sunset, and the breadth of the horizon before you.
Because the sun will sit extremely low during the eclipse, any building, ridge or structure could obstruct the view.
In general, northeastern Mallorca, the Serra de Tramuntana, and sea‑facing stretches of coastline offer the most privileged conditions.
Adding to the magic, the date coincides with one of summer’s most enchanting events: the Perseids, or the Tears of Saint Lawrence — a meteor shower that never fails to captivate onlookers.
Where to watch the solar eclipse in Menorca
Totality will begin in Menorca at 20:30:01, gradually moving southwards. At Cap de Cavalleria, for instance, it will take place between 20:30:01 and 20:31:01.
Locations such as Ciutadella, Pont d’en Gil, Cap d’Artrutx, Punta Nati and the summit of Monte Toro will offer some of the best views to experience this historic eclipse—where sea, sky and the island’s distinctive beauty come together.
For the best experience, it is essential to have a clear view to the west and an unobstructed horizon.
Viewing the eclipse safely
Watching a solar eclipse is an extraordinary experience, but to enjoy it fully — and without risk — it’s essential to follow a few precautions. Even during an eclipse, the sun’s rays remain dangerous to the eyes:
- Use certified eclipse glasses and be cautious of damaged or fake models.
- Never look through cameras, binoculars or telescopes while wearing eclipse glasses — their lenses concentrate sunlight like a magnifying glass.
- Avoid conventional sunglasses — they offer no real protection.
- Do not look directly at the sun without proper filters; even a few seconds can harm the retina.
- Take extra care with children — even with certified glasses, they may not use them correctly.
- Plan ahead or choose quieter locations, as traffic restrictions or closures may occur, especially along the west coast and in the Serra de Tramuntana.
With these precautions in mind, all that’s left is to look up — and safely enjoy a truly unforgettable spectacle.
FAQs about the solar eclipse in Mallorca
- What types of solar eclipses are there?
Solar eclipses fall into three categories: total (the moon fully covers the sun), partial (it hides only part of it), and annular (the moon leaves a luminous ring of fire visible around the sun).
- When will the solar eclipse happen in Mallorca?
The total solar eclipse will happen on August 12, 2026. In Mallorca, it will begin in the late afternoon and reach its peak at sunset, when day briefly slips into night between 20:30 and 20:34pm
- Where is the best place to see the eclipse in Mallorca?
The ideal spots are those that combine altitude with a clear western horizon. High viewpoints, open coastal areas and wide beaches offer the best conditions to enjoy the full spectacle.
- Which Zafiro hotel will have the best view?
Several Zafiro Hotels properties enjoy exceptional locations thanks to their orientation or proximity to broad, sea‑facing beaches. These include Zafiro Palace Andratx, Zafiro Palace Palmanova, Zafiro Rey Don Jaime (Santa Ponsa), Zafiro Alzinar Mar Adults Only (Can Picafort),Zafiro Mallorca (Can Picafort) and Zafiro Menorca (Ciutadella).
- Can you look at the eclipse directly or do you have to use special glasses?
You should never look directly at the sun without proper protection — not even for a moment. Certified eclipse glasses are essential; conventional sunglasses do not offer adequate protection and can cause serious eye damage.
- What glasses are best for watching the eclipse?
Glasses with ISO 12312-2:2015 certification. The ones that only say ISO 12312-1 are not appropriate. It’s important to check first that they are not damaged in any way or fake.
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