This is a popular outing in Mallorca. An old narrow gauge train line with a tunnel right through the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, it was originally launched in 1907 to bring Sóller's oranges to the rest of the country. Now it mostly brings tourists the other way. The line starts in Palma, but we decided to join halfway, in Bunyola, to avoid Palma parking.
After an easy drive, me, mum and Jemima wedged happily together on the back seat, we found the tiny train station, barely more than a platform and a wrought-iron sign. We were early, so walked up the hill for a cortado and a croissant in Bunyola's pretty little square, with the mountains peeping between the buildings. Then back down again to catch the train.
It was adorable: it looked almost like a toy train, with attractive old wooden carriages, room for two each side. The line travelled across that lovely almond blossom-filled plain; then through a long tunnel under the mountain, emerging on the other side to views of Sóller, quite a big town in the Mallorcan ochre colours nestling in a valley, with Puig Major (where we drove on Thursday) towering above. (There was much excitement on the Reception 2 WhatsApp group because it had actually snowed on top of Puig Major - some of Jemima's classmates drove up there to see it.)
After a brief pause to enjoy the view, the line did a big loop down the mountain, travelling through thick lemon and orange groves until it arrived at our destination. We disembarked in sunny Sóller; decided to pass on the tram to Port de Sóller (which is often combined with this trip, but perhaps better left for the summer); and instead had a lovely stroll down to the bustling main square.
It felt quite Alpine: it was cold but sunny, and the town was encircled by the massive mountains. People were (bravely/ foolishly) sitting outside under heaters; but we retreated into the warmth of a café for tea and some fast-paced rounds of Pigs in Pants (our current favourite game). Then we café-hopped a few doors down for lunch.
No menú here sadly; but we had a reasonable tapas selection (I ate my body-weight in padrón peppers); and had a very jolly time. Jemima was so enjoying having Granny and Grandpa around, and it is lovely to see the fun they have together. Then it was time to get back to the station for the train journey home. This was the best bit of the day for Jemima, as Kevin took her to stand on the small area outside between the carriages (the footplate??), so she could watch the countryside rushing past. She LOVED it. And then before we knew it, we were back in Bunyola to pick up the car.
After a little rest in our respective residences, Granny and Grandpa came over to babysit while Kevin and I went out (thank you G and G - our first evening excursion). We wandered down to the marina, and followed the noise to Cappuccino, whose inside area was lively with early evening drinkers. After a lovely Spanish-strength gin and tonic interlude, we walked back to the local Indian (I was hankering for one); but as it was completely empty, instead went to the busiest restaurant on the marina, Ritzi, a very nice looking place next door to Cappuccino that we had yet to try.
It was fabulous. Really fantastic food (sea bream for me, rack of lamb for Kevin, followed by apple tarts, yum), great location, and so nice to be out in the evening - and such a treat to then be able to walk (stagger) home. Lovely. And a great end to a fun day.
Bunyola
Waiting for the train
The journey
Sóller
And home again
Rest time
Night time!
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