The beach in Puerto Soller, in Majorca, has been named as the third happiest on the planet, according to a survey by CV Villas, which looked at photos of people’s faces to see how good a time they seemed to be having
A beach in Majorca, Spain, has been recognised as one of the happiest on the planet in a slightly unusual survey.
The beach in Puerto Soller, in Majorca, has been named as the third happiest on the planet, according to a survey by CV Villas.
The bizarre study analysed thousands of photos on Instagram using facial recognition technology, to see which beaches were the happiest. With an almost perfect score, the beach in Puerto Soller is one of the most desired destinations for holidaymakers looking for beautiful scenery and tranquillity and is located just 30 minutes from the city of Palma, reports the Majorca Daily Bulletin.
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Puerto Soller is a natural enclave surrounded by mountainous landscapes and crystal-clear waters, where little fishing boats bob up and down. For visitors, it offers both a beautiful spot to enjoy the ocean and witness the vibrancy of its port. There is also a promenade full of restaurants and shops that visitors can become lost in.
The beach itself is long and sandy, and stretches the entire width of the port. It is often shallow, making it the ideal location for families to swim or splash around in the water. Some sections of the beach have sun loungers and parasols available for hire, for around €18 (£15.13). There is also a local supermarket close by, in case a picnic is wanted.
Two lighthouses are on the headlands either side of the bay, La Badia de Sóller. An estuary attracts different birdlife, including geese and mallard ducks.
One particularly quaint local attraction is the tram. Over 100-years-old, the antique tram makes daily trips between Port de Soller and Soller, travelling along the oceanfront before heading into the Tramuntana mountains. Once the tram arrives at Soller, visitors can enjoy spectacular views as it passes the town square and a Baroque church.
The mountains can also be easily explored from the town, and are a popular destination for hiking and bike riding. Travellers can also head to the Museu de la Mar – Museu Marítim de Mallorca, Sóller, which is perched on the cliff edge and looks out across the ocean.
Soller is the main town in the port area, and features more of an old vibe. It boasts extravagant architecture and the main square is where everyone congregates at dinner time. Restaurants line the square and serve traditional Majorcan food.
The destination has recently faced overcrowding and traffic issues, so the municipality has implemented exclusive parking areas for residents. To reach Puerto Soller, you can fly to Palma airport, take a 40-minute drive, or hop on public transport, which takes less than an hour to reach the coastal town.