British tourists visiting Majorca next week are set to encounter significant travel disruptions due to extensive road restrictions imposed by the Balearic island during the upcoming solar eclipse. Majorca is among the limited European locations where a total solar eclipse will occur on Wednesday, with the moon completely obstructing the sun’s light, unlike the approximately 90% coverage expected in most parts of the UK.
The Balearic government has outlined a series of measures to be enforced on Wednesday, impacting a wide range of vehicles. These restrictions are generally scheduled between 3pm and 9pm, with the possibility of some lasting longer. Precautionary road closures may commence earlier if traffic congestion and safety issues arise. Specific controls will start as early as 8am in Platja de Palma and on Tuesday in Santa Ponça.
All motor vehicles are subject to these measures, with no general exemptions for motorcycles or mopeds. The restrictions aim to manage traffic flow on critical roads and access points to prevent congestion, maintain clear emergency routes, and ensure swift responses by emergency services during the eclipse.
Furthermore, goods suppliers will not be permitted to enter restricted areas during road closures. In Platja de Palma, essential maintenance, installation, and delivery services must register as authorized workers to access the designated zones. The government advises planning travel in advance, minimizing unnecessary trips, and ensuring safe eclipse observation for both residents and tourists to avoid potential traffic disruptions.
Additionally, individuals are urged not to park along roadsides or emergency routes, refrain from lighting fires or barbecues due to fire hazards, and follow safety guidelines provided by the Balearic government. The eclipse is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, starting at 7:38 p.m., with the moon progressively obscuring the sun until total darkness occurs between 8:30 p.m. and 8:34 p.m. Observers in the Balearic Islands will witness the complete eclipse, with varying durations across different locations, reaching its peak in Mallorca for about a minute and a half.
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