In the mountainous village of Sóller lies the Jardí Botànic, a botanical garden nestled in the stunning landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana. In this article, I’ll tell you whether it’s worth visiting and the best time to do so.
The Botanical Garden is located on the road between Palma de Mallorca and Sóller (Ma-11), just before the entrance to the village of Sóller. It is set in a charming landscape, surrounded by the stunning Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
The Botanical Garden of Sóller
The Sóller Botanical Garden was founded in 1985 and has since become an important center for the conservation of the Balearic flora. Originally created as part of the Institute of Natural Sciences of Sóller, today the garden plays a central role in botanical conservation and research in the Balearic Islands.
The Jardí Botànic covers an area of approximately 2.5 hectares and is divided into 12 sections. Each of these sections represents different aspects of Mediterranean flora. One thing is clear: here you can discover a great diversity of Balearic flora.
In addition to Mediterranean gardens, there is a section dedicated to endemic plants. Among these plants, which are only found in the Balearic Islands, is the rare helianthemum. Another section is dedicated to plants that are only found at higher altitudes, like those in the Sierra de Tramuntana (alpine plants).
For children, the wetlands and the fruit and vegetable gardens will surely be more interesting.
Highlights of the Botanical Garden
- Endemic plants: Admire the rare Helianthemum scopulicolum, which is only found in Mallorca, or the brilliant Helianthemum caput-felis.
- Aromatic floral splendor: In spring, the hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) is covered with a fragrant white blanket of flowers.
- Mediterranean variety: Be enchanted by the Vinca difformis and Allium triquetrum.
- The Museum: Learn about the fauna (the animal life of Mallorca) and discover prehistoric findings made on the island.
Another highlight of the Botanical Garden is its seed bank, where seeds of rare and endangered plant species are safely stored. This facility is crucial for reforestation and the conservation of biodiversity in the Balearic Islands. However, this facility is not open to the public.
Best time to visit: When is there more to see?
The Sóller Botanical Garden is worth visiting all year round, but the best time to enjoy the full splendor of the flora is between April and June. During these months, more than 60% of Balearic flora is in full bloom.
The garden is especially spectacular in spring, when the almond trees bloom and the entire surroundings are transformed into a charming sea of white and pink flowers. Also in the fall, when the temperatures are mild and many plants experience a second blooming, it is worth visiting.
The Botanical Garden Museum
The museum entrance is included in the price of admission to the garden. In my opinion, visiting the museum is very much worth it. I was surprised to find a prehistoric exhibition on the first floor. There, you can admire several findings made on the island.
In the second floor, you will get closer to the animal life of the island. In my opinion, the ground floor can be quickly toured. I must admit that the museum was a pleasant surprise during my visit to the Botanical Garden.
Practical information for your visit
The Botanical Garden is open every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM throughout the year. Admission costs €8 (Mallorca residents pay €6). Children up to and including the age of 5 can visit the park for free.
- Address: Jardí Botànic de Sóller, Ctra. Palma-Sóller, km 30
- Website: jardibotanicdesoller.org
Conclusion
If you are interested in the flora of Mallorca and its history, I highly recommend a visit to the Botanical Garden. The museum not only pleasantly surprised me, but it will also make children’s eyes light up. However, I recommend visiting in spring or late autumn when many plants are in bloom.
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