Sóller Tunnel to be Temporarily Closed at Night – Detours and Tips for Commuters

Sóller Tunnel Closed at Night: What Locals and Visitors Should Know

Anyone commuting between Palma, Sóller, and the small Orange Valley should set their alarm: the Sóller Tunnel will be closed several times at night. The island administration plans to carry out the works from October 6 to approximately November 13 – each Monday to Thursday from 22:00 to 06:00.

I was at the Sóller Market yesterday afternoon, bakers were still filling baskets with croissants, and the mood was fairly relaxed. Still, the topic is already on the radar in town: many locals work shifts or commute daily to Palma. For them, this means leaving earlier or taking the route via the Coll de Sóller in the future.

What exactly is being done?

According to the announcement, several technical installations will be modernized. Specifically, camera and event-detection systems will be replaced, drainage systems will be cleaned, and fire and ventilation technology checked. Some of this sounds dry, but it is important – especially if a bus or a truck gets stuck.

The responsible teams say the work is expected to last until the second week of November. A firm completion date will only be set once the checks and tests are finished. So: plan a bit of buffer in your calendar.

Detour and exceptions

A detour via the Coll de Sóller will be set up for cars and motorcycles. Expect about 30 extra minutes – depending on weather and traffic it may take longer. The narrow, winding road is often wet in autumn, so be careful.

Good news for travelers relying on the bus: The red and yellow intercity buses (tib) may continue to drive through the tunnel, as well as emergency vehicles such as police and fire brigade. This at least eases the main connections.

Practical tips

• Where possible: schedule outside the affected nights or depart earlier.
• Update navigation on your phone – the detour is usually shown in map apps.
• Take school buses and rush hour into account: in the morning the Coll can get tight quickly.
• If you arrive late: hotels in Port de Sóller will inform you that many offer shuttle or alternative access.

In short: there will not be a complete traffic meltdown, but the nights will be different from usual. Bring a little patience, have a coffee beforehand (best not in the car), and follow the signs on site. If everything goes smoothly, the tunnel will soon be safer and more modern – and the orange trees along the route can continue to enjoy their peace.