Nat Geo Day Tour: The Valley of the Oranges

Nat Geo Day Tour: The Valley of the Oranges

Picturesque hills and aromatic citrus orchards best describe Sóller. From Palma de Mallorca, travel into the Serra de Tramontana mountains, where you'll discover this eye-catching town, nicknamed the 'Valley of Oranges'. Historically, Sóller was isolated from the rest of Mallorca due to its mountains, allowing the development of unique cultural and agricultural practices. Sóller's orange groves trace their roots back several centuries, introduced to the region by Arab settlers during the Spanish occupation. On this exclusive tour, you'll uncover the region's conservation initiatives with your National Geographic-trained guide, visiting the Balearic Museum of Natural Sciences for an exclusive audio-visual experience including photos illustrating the history of the orange groves and their impact on Sóller's local economy. After this, tour Sóller's citrus-infused Botanical Gardens, where you'll study the botanical properties of different citrus varieties, enjoy an exclusive visit to the seed bank and learn more about the museum's work to conserve the Balearic Islands' plant species, unique ecosystems and natural habitats. Finish with a cooking demo featuring a zesty dessert with a citrus tang. Next, discover Sóller's secrets on a guided walking tour, before stopping by Sa Fàbrica de Gelats, an ice cream Parlor featured in National Geographic España as one of the best spots for orange-flavoured gelato. Finish with some free time to explore at your leisure.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Mallorca's Flor de Sal, Unearthing an Island Treasure

Behind the white sand beach of Es Trenc stretches the Protected Area of the Levante Salt Flats. For millennia, precious salt has been harvested here, and today it's a haven for nature enthusiasts and home to over 160 different species of birds. With luck you will be able to spot avocets, stilts, and pink flamingos among many others. Spanning an expansive 150 hectares, the Levante Salt Flats have been designated as a Natural Area of Special Interest. Three conditions are essential for the purest salt to form – hot sun, sea breeze and low humidity. You will witness the ancient process of salt harvesting as you explore the salt pans on a gentle walking tour, your National Geographic-traned guide providing you with local insight and explaining the history of this ancient Balearic occupation. Watch the expert Salineros using age-old techniques to gather the finest, Flor de Sal salt crystals, and then have a go at harvesting some yourself. The tour also spotlights the sustainable nature of the sea salt industry. The production is in total harmony with the ecosystem, in fact many migratory birds rely on the mineral-rich wetlands to restore balance after long flights from overseas. The delicate nature of salt crystals means hand harvesting is the only workable method, so there is no need for mechanisation. Enjoy landscapes and artisan processes that have remained unchanged for centuries as you soak up the peace and nature of this special place.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Marine Treasures of Mallorca, the Posidonia Oceanica

Inspired by the work of National Geographic's Pristine Seas project, which aims to protect the last wild places in our oceans, this National Geographic Day Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and unspoiled Mediterranean waters by kayak, accompanied by a marine biologist and learn about the importance of Posidonia Oceanica. Posidonia Oceanica is more than just a seagrass. In the words of Manu San Félix, a member of the National Geographic Pristine Seas Project: "Posidonia is the architect of the Mediterranean marine ecosystem." It is an essential part of this ecosystem with broad implications for ecology, coastal stability, tourism, and even climate regulation. Efforts to conserve and protect this important species are crucial to maintaining the health and balance of the Mediterranean environment. This humble plant plays a vital role in oxygenating seawater, helping to stabilize sediment, and providing a habitat for many species of fish and other marine life. Accompanied by a marine biologist, you will paddle your kayak a distance of approximately 2.5 miles around the Marine Protected Area of the Malgrats Islands, a biodiverse ecosystem which is home to dolphins, fish, birds, algae and more. The protected zone was established to safeguard the surrounding marine habitat, an important location for Posidonia Oceanica. Exploring mostly by kayak with an optional snorkel stop, you'll see the Posidonia meadows for yourself, with explanations from the marine biologist about the impact this seagrass has on the Mediterranean and the wider world. Learn how each of us can play a part in protecting the Posidonia meadows, by raising awareness of their role in the battle against global warming, as featured in the National Geographic documentary, 'Pristine Seas: The Power of Protection'.