Mallorca offers longest eclipse view in Europe: 1 minute 36 seconds of darkness

Mallorca's rugged Serra de Tramuntana mountains became a prime viewing spot for a rare solar eclipse, offering the longest duration in Europe at 1 minute and 36 seconds of totality.

Anticipation built early, with guests at the Lluc monastery gathering for breakfast before heading out. As roads began closing by 10:00 AM, a multilingual buzz filled the air, with visitors from Germany, England, the Netherlands, and Flanders eager to find the best vantage points. The advice was clear: leave early, pack provisions, avoid open fires due to wildfire risks, and use only certified eclipse glasses.

Olga Lohman, 79, and Gerhard Venhuizen, 75, had planned this trip for six months, coinciding with their 50th wedding anniversary. They hoped to recreate the symbolism of their 1976 wedding, which occurred during the Perseid meteor shower, by celebrating under a darkened sun. Their quest for a secluded, romantic spot in nature led them on a challenging drive through winding roads, marked with "Perill d’incendi" (Fire Hazard) signs.

Despite soaring temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius inland and 33 degrees Celsius at sea, and the inevitable traffic jams, the allure of the eclipse prevailed. The couple, seasoned adventurers who have traveled "off the grid" for decades, were undeterred. After scouting several locations, they discovered a semi-hidden path near Cala Tuent, leading them to a perfect viewpoint overlooking the sea. Though not entirely private, with yellow markers indicating the trail, it offered the ideal west-northwest angle for viewing the spectacle. With their eclipse glasses ready, they shared a satisfied glance, prepared for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.