Night pilgrims and motorcycle round trip cause closures in Palma and the Tramuntana

Wide roads, narrow streets: Pilgrimage to Lluc slows traffic

If you planned to head to the coast or into the mountains this afternoon on a whim, be prepared for delays. Some 5,000 people from around 45 municipalities will set out in the evening for the Lluc Monastery—a nocturnal march through the Serra de Tramuntana that will occupy many rural roads.

The route runs over small mountain passes, tight hairpin bends, and popular viewpoints. That means: more than 60 sections on various island roads will be closed temporarily or only one-way at times. Especially affected are accesses to places like Escorca, Lluc itself, and parts of the MA-10, where the road is already narrow.

Palma: Closure on the Paseo Marítimo from 16:30

In Palma, an evening motorcycle round trip is also added. From about 16:30, the Paseo Marítimo in front of the cathedral toward Andratx is closed—causing traffic jams along the harbor promenade. If you need to reach the city center, you should use public transport or choose another route; bus lines may run later than usual.

Practical tips: If you are out today, allow more time, avoid known choke points, and check the current notices from local authorities before setting out. Cyclists and pedestrians should be especially careful: dark sections in the Tramuntana are hard to see and lighting is often lacking.

Experience shows that such events bring good mood but also tangible traffic problems. Residents report music in village centers and groups with flashlights on field paths. A neighbor in Sóller told me he already sees the string of lights from his terrace — “like a small procession, very impressive,” he said, “but parking afterward is chaos.”

Emergency services and police are on site

Emergency services and the local police have prepared deployment plans. Paramedics are stationed at several points, and access for emergency vehicles will be kept clear. Nevertheless: anyone venturing into the mountains after dark should bring their own first-aid kit and warm clothing—the temperature drops noticeably around midnight.

The organizers ask for consideration and follow the experience from the larger pilgrim march in August, when nearly 9,000 participants were on the way. Today the number is smaller, but the routes are similar and the traffic impact comparable.

Current closures and recommendations are published by the Island Council on its website and through local channels. For drivers: signs, detours, and traffic posts will become visible gradually—follow the instructions and expect delays.

If you plan a relaxed evening without traffic: go later or enjoy a TV night at home. For everyone else: staying calm helps, don't forget a flashlight, and plan a bit of time.

What else is important

The event is expected to end in the early morning hours once the participants reach the Lluc Monastery. Then most closures will be lifted again, but cleanup may take a little longer. In short: Tonight Mallorca will be on the move differently than on normal days—and noticeably so.