Majorca will enforce widespread road restrictions on August 12 for the total solar eclipse, affecting cars, vans, motorcycles, and mopeds. The Balearic Government confirmed the measures, part of the ECLIPBAL operation, will generally be in place between 3pm and 9pm, but closures could start earlier if traffic builds up, car parks fill, or safety concerns arise.
Restrictions and Timing
In Platja de Palma, controls begin at 8am, while in Santa Ponça the operation starts 24 hours earlier on Tuesday, August 11. The measures apply to all motor vehicles, with no general exemptions for motorcycles or mopeds. The government emphasized that the operation does not involve a general closure of Mallorca, but traffic will be regulated on sensitive roads and access routes to prevent congestion and keep emergency routes clear.
Purpose and Impact
The restrictions aim to reduce gridlock, protect environmentally sensitive areas, and ensure emergency services can respond quickly during the eclipse. Some restrictions may remain after 9pm. Goods suppliers will generally not be allowed into restricted areas while closures are in force, and in Platja de Palma, essential maintenance, installation, and delivery companies must register workers for the relevant establishment.
Advice for Visitors
Officials advise visitors not to leave beaches, viewpoints, or natural areas at the last minute, as heavy traffic, diversions, and officer instructions could delay journeys. They also urge people not to park on roadsides or emergency access routes, and to avoid lighting fires or barbecues due to wildfire risk.
Affected Roads
The full list of affected roads includes: Ma-1030 (Sant Elm), Ma-10 (Andratx, Estellencs, Banyalbufar, Esporles, Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller, Fornalutx, Escorca, Caimari), Ma-2210 (Pollença and Formentor, including Mirador des Colomer and Formentor lighthouse), Ma-6014 (Maioris, Puig de Ros, Cap Blanc), Ma-5018 (Randa), Ma-19 (Platja de Palma), Ma-4011 (Felanitx), Ma-3333 (Artà), Camí de Son Torrat (Petra), Ma-6110 (Ses Salines lighthouse), and Ma-6040 (access to Es Trenc, Ses Covetes, and the Ses Salines area).
