Why do a lighthouse road trip in Mallorca (history + scenery)
Mallorca’s lighthouses have a magnetic pull. They sit at the island’s edges, where roads end and cliffs begin. Some still operate, others belong to maritime history, but they all share one thing: the views are unforgettable.
You don’t need to be a navigation geek to love this route. All you need is a car, the urge to drive, and time to enjoy winding roads, coastal towns, and sunsets that look painted.
Many lighthouses are surrounded by hidden coves, hiking paths, or small fishing villages. So visiting them isn’t just about white towers: it’s a complete journey through the most authentic Mallorca.
Map and how to plan your driving itinerary (1, 2 or 3 days)
The best thing about this route is how easily it adapts to your schedule.
- 1-day route: combine the Formentor Lighthouse in the north with the Ses Salines Lighthouse in the south. Two ends of the island in one day.
- 2-day route: add the Capdepera Lighthouse (east) and the Portocolom Lighthouse (southeast). A mix of nature and seafaring tradition.
- 3-day route: round it out with Cap Blanc, Cala Figuera and historic Portopí, just outside Palma.
Driving is essential if you want to link several lighthouses. From the airport you’re on the road in 5 minutes with Autos Mallorca’s express service, already on the Ma-19 to circle the island. With unlimited mileage you can take every detour you fancy without watching the odometer.
Formentor Lighthouse: the Tramuntana icon
The island’s most famous lighthouse crowns the tip of the Formentor Peninsula, 210 metres above the sea. The access road is narrow and twisty, but every bend reveals a new viewpoint: Cala Figuera, the Colomer lookout, and the headland itself.
The view from the lighthouse is pure postcard. Sunset is magical, though it’s best to arrive early: access is regulated in peak season. Parking can be tricky, so a compact car is a smart choice for these curves.
With Autos Mallorca’s fully comprehensive insurance with no excess, the stress of tight car parks disappears. And with free additional drivers, you can swap seats on Tramuntana roads without a fuss.
Capdepera Lighthouse: watching over the east
Set on the far northeast between Capdepera and Cala Ratjada, this lighthouse oversees the Menorca Channel. On clear days you can see the neighbouring island on the horizon.
The drive from Palma takes just over an hour, but the rugged scenery and lighter crowds make it worth it. Cala Ratjada adds great restaurants and coves for a worthwhile stop.
Parking is straightforward here, and the surroundings invite a stroll along the cliffs. Thanks to the full-to-full fuel policy, you keep fuel costs under control on these longer drives with no surprises at drop-off.
Portocolom Lighthouse: colour and maritime tradition
The Portocolom Lighthouse stands out with its white tower striped in black, next to one of Mallorca’s prettiest fishing towns. Portocolom keeps an authentic feel, with colourful houses and traditional boats.
Pair the lighthouse visit with a harbour walk and, in summer, a swim at Cala Marçal or S’Arenal. It’s a great stop for a seafood lunch right by the water.
Access is easy and parking gentler than at other lighthouses. Ideal for a relaxed half-day route.
Portopí Lighthouse: history minutes from Palma
Portopí Lighthouse in Palma Bay is one of the oldest still operating in the world (13th century). It isn’t always open to visitors, but its historic weight makes it a must for the curious.
Its closeness to Palma is a plus: a perfect late-afternoon plan after exploring the capital or as the finale to your lighthouse loop. Getting there by car is quick, and being in an urban area means services are close at hand.
Cap Blanc & Cala Figuera Lighthouses: the southern cliffs
The Cap Blanc Lighthouse stands atop dramatic cliffs in the island’s south. The spot blends a deep sense of calm with the raw power of open sea.
Nearby is the Cala Figuera Lighthouse, though it sits within a military zone (access isn’t always possible). Even so, the views along this stretch of coast are spectacular and well worth it.
It’s often windy here, so bring a light jacket even in summer. On clear days, sunset photos are jaw-dropping.
Ses Salines Lighthouse: gateway to the Natural Park
At the island’s southern tip, near Mondragó Natural Park and Colònia de Sant Jordi, you’ll find the Ses Salines Lighthouse. The setting is wild: virgin beaches, pine trails, and that end-of-the-map feeling.
You can see Cabrera on the horizon from here. It’s also a good starting point for walks like the path to Es Carbó beach.
The road is quiet, though a little long. With unlimited mileage and free cancellation up to 24h, you can improvise or change plans with the weather.
Practical tips: parking, weather and road safety
- Parking: some sites are limited (Formentor, Cap Blanc). Aim for early or off-peak hours.
- Weather: wind and humidity can be intense. Pack a light jacket, even in summer evenings.
- Safety: Tramuntana has tight bends and cyclists; patience pays off.
- Plan B: if the sea is rough and cliffs don’t appeal, switch to nearby towns (Cala Ratjada, Portocolom, Santanyí).
A customer put it simply: “I trusted the reviews and everything was perfect. I’ll repeat if I come back to Mallorca.” Being able to move around without fine-print worries makes a real difference on long routes.
Rent without surprises: tour the lighthouses with Autos Mallorca
Doing a lighthouse road trip in Mallorca is far easier when you’re not tied to bus timetables or trains that don’t reach the coast. With Autos Mallorca you’re out of the airport in 5 minutes and starting the adventure with these perks:
- Express Pick-up: shuttle with no waiting.
- Fully comprehensive, no excess: zero stress in tight car parks or twisty roads.
- No card holds: your funds stay available.
- Unlimited mileage: cover the whole island without counting kilometres.
- Full-to-full fuel: total control of costs.
- Free additional drivers: up to three people can share the driving.
- Free 24h cancellation: real flexibility.
👉 Book your car now and set off to discover Mallorca’s lighthouses with total freedom.
FAQs
Which is the most beautiful lighthouse in Mallorca?
Formentor is the most iconic, but Ses Salines and Capdepera have tons of charm.
Can you visit inside the lighthouses?
Most can only be seen from the outside; Portopí is the one with the richest history.
Where’s the best lighthouse sunset?
Formentor and Cap Blanc deliver the most spectacular colours.
How long do I need for a lighthouse route?
In one day you can cover two ends (north & south). With three days you’ll see most of the main ones.
