Discover the island with the Berna Group

Total Solar Eclipse in Mallorca 2026: A Guide to Viewing It from the Island.

On 12 August 2026, the skies over Mallorca will treat us to a spectacle that won’t be seen again in Spain until 2053: a total solar eclipse. It will be the first visible on the Spanish mainland and the Balearic Islands in over a century, and the island is set to be one of the best places in Europe to experience it. If you’re planning your summer holidays, this date should be marked in red on your calendar.

total-solar-eclipse-mallorca-2026
“Total solar eclipse with the solar corona visible, a phenomenon that can be observed in Mallorca on August 12.2026”

What is a total solar eclipse and why is it so special?

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, completely obscuring the Sun’s disc. For a few seconds or minutes, day turns to night, the solar corona —that halo of incandescent gas which is only visible at such moments— is revealed, and the surroundings are enveloped in an almost mystical silence. In Mallorca, this phenomenon will coincide with sunset, creating a scene of light and shadow over the Mediterranean that you’ll find hard to forget.

Practical information: opening hours and duration in Mallorca

According to the National Geographic Institute (IGN), these are the exact times for Palma:

Table

Phase Time (CEST) Details
Start of the partial eclipse 19:38 The Sun is 12° above the horizon
Start of totality 20:31 Sudden darkness
Peak of the eclipse 20:31:48 The Moon covers 103.1% of the Sun
End of totality 20:32:36 1 minute and 36 seconds of totality
End of the eclipse (sunset) ~20:46 The Sun sets whilst partially eclipsed
⚠️ Important: The Sun will be very low on the horizon (only 2° above the horizon). You’ll need a spot with unobstructed views to the west (the sea or open countryside) so you don’t miss a single second.

“Times and path of the total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026 in Mallorca. Source: FIAAM.”


Where to watch the total solar eclipse in Mallorca
The good news is that the whole of Mallorca lies within the path of totality. The best viewing spots are those offering an unobstructed view towards the west or north-west:
  • Palma Beach and the Promenade: unobstructed sea views, easy access.
  • Sant Elm and the west coast: spectacular sunsets and clear skies.
  • Port de Sóller and Banyalbufar: unobstructed sea views.
  • Formentor: if you prefer a wilder setting (although the road can get busy).
  • From the sea: many boats will be organising special trips to watch the eclipse from the water.
Watching the total solar eclipse from the sea in Mallorca is one of the most exclusive experiences of summer 2026

Watching the total solar eclipse from the sea in Mallorca is one of the most exclusive experiences of summer 2026


Safety tips (non-negotiable)

  • 🔴 ISO 12312-2-certified goggles: must be worn throughout the partial phase. Ordinary sunglasses, X-ray goggles or homemade filters do not provide protection and may cause irreversible eye damage.
  • 🟢 Only during the totality (20:31–20:32): is it safe to look directly at the sun without protection. As soon as the first ray of sunlight reappears, put your glasses back on.
  • 🚗 Arrive early: traffic heading to the viewing points will be gridlocked from mid-afternoon onwards. Make sure you’re at your location before 16:00.
  • 🌡️ Water, a hat and sun cream: it’ll be August. Although the temperature drops slightly throughout the month, the heat leading up to it is intense.

Astronomical bonus: rain of stars Perseids
The night of 12–13 August coincides with the peak of the Perseids, one of the most intense meteor showers of the year. After the eclipse, you can lie back on the beach or on the terrace of your holiday home and watch shooting stars over the Mediterranean. A double celestial event in a single night.

Book your eclipse experience with Grupo Berna

At Grupo Berna, we offer country estates and holiday homes in the open countryside of Mallorca, perfect for enjoying the eclipse without the crowds. Imagine experiencing those 96 seconds of totality from the swimming pool at your holiday rental, with an unobstructed view of the horizon and the sea in the background.

👉 Check availability for August 2026 and secure your place at an event that won’t happen again for decades.