If you ever find yourself on the island of Mallorca, don’t miss Port de Sóller.
I’ve gotten to know Port de Sóller well over the years. My cousin Kate lives and works there, so I’ve had the chance to experience it beyond the tourist brochures. And trust me — it’s even more beautiful in person.
This town on the island’s northwest coast feels like it was made for slow mornings and long, sun-soaked afternoons. It’s tucked between the Tramuntana Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea and has a picturesque harbor lined with colorful buildings.
Along the seafront, especially near the beach Playa d’en Repic and the old abandoned spot next to Las Delicias, you’ll find a community of local cats who’ve made this beautiful place their home. They make this already pretty town feel even more alive.
Let’s meet the cats of Port de Sóller and explore the place they call home
Cats of Port de Sóller
If you’re hoping to meet the cats as well, there are two main places to check out: Las Delicias bar (you’ll find it at Paseo de la Playa 17) and Playa d’en Repic beach, right in front of it.
However, keep in mind that most of these cats are muy tímidos, very shy. They will come out and venture onto the bar’s patio and the Playa d’en Repic to look for food, but they will run away if there’s no edible incentive.
Some of these cats have seen better days. Please share some leftover food or a handful of kibble with them. They will appreciate it, and it’ll definitely brighten their day.
I had a sweet encounter with an especially friendly tabby.
At first, he couldn’t care less that I took pictures of him, and he even turned his back on me. But after a few minutes, when he noticed he was the center of my attention, he came over for cuddles. When I sat down on my knees to photograph him, he jumped on my lap and settled down for a nap. He didn’t move for at least 20 minutes, even when I put myself in a more comfortable position.
When I saw the tabby again a few days later, he did exactly the same: he installed himself on my lap, and he stayed for more than an hour. If I didn’t have a plane to catch, he would have stayed even longer.
One of the main draws of Port de Sóller is its stunning beaches. For those who prefer sunbathing on the Playa d’en Repic, located in front of Las Delicias, the cat encounters continue. Don’t be surprised if one of them wanders by to say hello to you on the beach (especially if you’ve got snacks).
How to care for these stray cats during your vacation?
I visited Port de Sóller during the winter, which means there are no more tourists to feed and take care of them. Here’s how you can care for these cats while you’re enjoying your vacation:
Respect their personal space
Some cats might want to say hello, while others prefer to stay at a distance. Always respect their boundaries. If a cat backs away or shows signs of discomfort, don’t try to force a cuddle or petting session. Only offer gentle strokes or chin scratches if the cat clearly feels comfortable.
Offer food and water responsibly
If you want to feed the cats, bring a small bag of dry cat food. Put the food in a clean dish or a quiet spot away from busy areas so other animals don’t get to it first.
You can also offer a small bowl of fresh water — especially on hot days, hydration matters. Just remember to refill the water regularly.
And please, don’t feed cats anything toxic. Avoid chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, alcohol, caffeine, or anything with xylitol (a common artificial sweetener). These can seriously harm cats, causing anything from upset stomachs to organ damage.
Connect with local animal groups
If you fall in love with the cats and want to help beyond your trip, look for local animal welfare groups or shelters. They often need support with feeding, medical care, or even adoption programs. One local organization you might want to check out is FeliZnoz, gatos en Mallorca. They can guide you on how to help responsibly or where to donate.
Things to do in Sóller
Sure, the cats steal the show, but Port de Sóller has so much more to offer. From stunning beaches and a historic tram to delicious food and amazing hiking trails, Port de Sóller has something for everyone. Let’s briefly dive into the highlights that make this town a must-visit destination.
Hiking haven
Port de Sóller is a gateway to the Tramuntana Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning hiking trails. If you explore these rugged peaks, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea.
Historic tram
One of the town’s most beloved attractions is its vintage tram, which has been running since the early 1900s. It connects Port de Sóller to the nearby town of Sóller, winding through the gorgeous countryside. Hop on for a nostalgic ride and take in some stunning landscapes along the way.
Culinary delights
Port de Sóller offers a fantastic mix of restaurants and cafes serving fresh Mediterranean dishes. Think fresh seafood, traditional Spanish tapas, and flavors that perfectly capture the region’s culinary spirit. If you go to the seafood restaurant Só Caprichos, you’ll find even more cats.
The Night Manager filming locations
Fans of the popular TV series The Night Manager might recognize Port de Sóller as one of the filming locations.
Orange groves
The surrounding area of Port de Sóller is known for its orange groves, and these valleys produce some of the finest oranges in Mallorca. Freshly squeezed orange juice is a local specialty.
How to get to Sóller from Palma?
Planning a trip to Sóller? Here are the best ways to get there:
Train
Take the historic wooden train from Palma’s Estació Intermodal to the town of Sóller. The scenic ride takes about an hour and winds through olive groves, tunnels, and mountain views. Once you’re in the town, take the tram to Port de Sóller.
Car
Drive from Palma via Ma-11 through the Sóller Tunnel and follow signs to Port de Sóller. There’s public parking once you arrive.
Bus
Catch TIB bus 204 from Palma to Sóller, then transfer to bus 203 to Port de Sóller. The ride takes 45–60 minutes and offers great views.
Boat
In summer, hop on a boat from towns like Palma, Port de Pollença, or Port d’Andratx. It’s a scenic, relaxed way to reach Sóller and soak in the coastline.
Conclusion
Saying goodbye to the cats was bittersweet. However, the memories and the joy they brought me will stay with me for a long time, and I am grateful for the time spent with these creatures.
So, when planning your next trip to Mallorca, don’t forget to include Port de Sóller on your itinerary. And if you do, share a snack or a cuddle with these cats and tag us on social media with your favorite Port de Sóller cat photos
Text and photos by Vanessa Morgan
