Even though traffic restrictions remain in place until the end of summer, visitors still flock daily to one of Mallorca’s most iconic landmarks: the Formentor lighthouse. With private cars banned, only authorised vehicles, cyclists, walkers and passengers on the TIB 334 bus can make the journey. Yet this hasn’t stopped hundreds of curious travellers from making their way to the island’s northern tip.
On arrival, many are surprised to find not just spectacular views but also some unusual locals. Signs have recently been put up along the route asking visitors not to feed the goats. These animals wander calmly among people, perfectly used to human company. The posters – in Spanish, Mallorcan and English – make it clear: “Do not feed the goats.”
The reason is simple: tourists are often tempted to offer them sweets or snacks, which aren’t healthy for the animals. Still, the goats have become an attraction in their own right. Alongside the dramatic cliffs and endless sea views, their friendly presence adds an extra charm to the lighthouse experience. Many visitors can’t resist stopping to stroke them or snap a photo.
You don’t just see them at the lighthouse, either. The goats often appear along the 17-kilometre road from Puerto Pollensa and at the Mirador d’es Colomer, another viewpoint popular with travellers. Their easy mingling with visitors has become almost as memorable as the scenery itself.
Even so, the new signs are hard to miss, placed in strategic spots like bins along the route. Most visitors respect them, but a photo with one of the Formentor goats has quickly become one of the most treasured souvenirs of this unique trip.