On August 12, a total solar eclipse will be visible from parts of Spain, marking the first time in over a century that this phenomenon will occur there. The eclipse will cross northern regions like Galicia, then move inland to Castile and León, and finally reach the east coast. The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, will also have a view.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun, blocking all or part of the sun's light. Jamie Carter, author of the Complete Guide to the Total Solar Eclipse 2026 and eclipse expert for New Scientist Discovery Tours, explains that this alignment is possible because the sun and moon appear almost the same size in our sky. The total phase, known as totality, lasts only a few minutes, during which day turns to night, temperatures drop, and the sun's corona becomes visible as a halo around the moon.
Best places to watch
Jamie Carter recommends several locations for optimal viewing. He suggests using tools like The Eclipse App, Eclipse Horizon Checker, and the Instituto Geográfico Nacional for the clearest views.
Castile and León, Spain
This landlocked region offers the best all-round choice, with totality lasting up to 1 minute and 45 seconds at 8:28 pm CEST. It combines favourable weather and open landscapes. In Burgos, visitors can admire Gothic architecture, including the 13th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site cathedral, and enjoy the local gastronomy, known for slow-roasted suckling lamb and sheep's milk cheese. Palencia offers the historic Canal de Castilla and tapas on Calle Mayor. Valladolid boasts Renaissance squares and a vibrant tapas scene.
Note: Authorities in northern Spain are urging people to stay away due to wildfires.
Ebro Delta, Spain
On the east coast, the eclipse will occur at 8:30 pm CEST, lasting 1 minute and 30 seconds. The beaches here provide uninterrupted views to the northwest. The region is Catalonia's primary rice producer and famous for seafood dishes like arroz a banda. Visitors can take boat tours to floating seafood farms.
S'Arenal Beach, Mallorca
The eclipse will take place just before sunset, at 8:31 pm CEST, for 1 minute and 36 seconds. Palma de Mallorca won't see anything, but S'Arenal beach offers a clear view. The Government of the Balearic Islands and AstroMallorca have launched Horizonte Eclipse 2026, a free tool to check totality visibility from specific locations.
Scoresby Sund, East Greenland
About 15 expedition cruise ships are heading to the world's largest fjord system for dramatic scenery and clear skies. The eclipse will occur at 4:35 pm EGST and last 2 minutes and 16 seconds. The area is home to whales, Atlantic walruses, and polar bears, plus the isolated settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit.
Reykjavík, Iceland
Iceland's capital will have viewing areas along the southwest coast. The eclipse will happen at 5:48 pm GMT and last 57 seconds. For music lovers, the Echolalia festival hosted by Björk will coincide with the eclipse, with tickets starting from 14,990 ISK (£89).
Why is it special?
A total solar eclipse occurs at any given location only every few centuries, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most. Jamie Carter notes that eclipse chasing has exploded in popularity following the successful North American eclipses of 2017 and 2024.
Respecting the eclipse
Tourists are urged to respect natural environments, as highlighted by the Agency for Tourism of the Balearic Islands. Visitors should follow signage, stay on designated paths, and dispose of rubbish properly.
