A 3-wheel F1-style drive beats a bus tour. I love the hands-on driving and the big, open-air feeling as you run the coast. You’ll do quick photo stops at Malgrats 2 and Palma’s port, plus more viewpoints on the longer option. The main thing to consider is that this is manual-transmission driving, so you’ll need real comfort behind the wheel.

Two things I particularly like: the way the route is built around photo-ready viewpoints without turning into a long slog, and the included helmet plus light refreshments that keep the whole outing smooth. A possible drawback: the ride can be fast and weather can matter, so plan for quick changes and be ready for a gear-up, go-now kind of tour.

Key highlights that matter

• Manual driving for the driver: you’re expected to drive the 3-wheeler yourself
• Coastal viewpoints: coast run to Malgrats 2, then port photos in Palma
• Longer option adds Cala de Estellencs: a bar stop with a scenic viewpoint
• Port d’Andratx is optional: depends on time and traffic
• Small-group feel: capped at 32 travelers, with a convoy-style guide setup
• Helmet and light refreshments included: less to pack, more to focus on driving

What an F1-style 3-wheeler drive means in real life

This isn’t a slow sightseeing loop. It’s closer to a motorsport day trip, using a 3-wheeled, open-air machine (the same type many people describe as Polaris Slingshot) where the thrill comes from steering, acceleration, and the way you feel connected to the road.

That open-air design is a big part of the appeal. You get that near-constant view of sky and sea, plus a real sense of speed when you’re moving with the group. It also means you’ll want to dress for sun, wind, and quick temp shifts. In January, for example, people report it can feel too cold to be comfortable for an extended drive, even with the novelty.

There’s also the social setup: you’re not just following a guide on foot. You join a professional driver guide in the vehicle convoy, then you drive yourself for the bulk of the experience (one driver-style comment pegged it around 95% of the time). That hands-on time is what makes this feel like a bucket-list activity instead of a standard tour.

The route that mixes coast, ports, and quick photo stops

Your outing is built around a coast-and-viewpoint rhythm. You get short stops where the goal is clear: park, take photos, then roll on. That matters because you’ll spend your time doing the thing you booked for—driving—rather than waiting around.

Stop 1: Malgrats 2 (11081) — about 10 minutes

This is your first photo break, aimed at giving you that postcard angle over the island. It’s short on purpose. You’ll have enough time to get a few good shots, but not so much that the group drifts or loses momentum.

Why it’s worth it: it’s early enough in the route that you get your “wow” moment while you’re still warmed up and excited. If you’re the kind of person who takes photos from multiple angles, do it fast here. The day doesn’t drag, and you’ll want time for the bigger Palma port views later.

Stop 2: Palma de Mallorca port — about 10 minutes

Next up is Palma’s port area for photos. This stop is also brief. You’ll get a chance to snap the boats-and-city vibe and stretch for a moment before heading back out.

The tradeoff: a quick stop means you won’t have time to explore on foot much. If you want cathedral-level sightseeing, do that separately. This tour’s job is the driving and the scenic hits, not turning into a full city day.

The shorter tour (2-ish hours): what you actually get

If you choose the shorter option, you’ll basically get the coast-to-photo structure: Malgrats 2 and Palma port, then you’re done. People who do the shorter ride often describe it as the right length for a first-time try—especially if you’re not sure you’ll love manual driving for an entire session.

In practical terms, the short version is best if:

• you’re mostly in it for the car experience and the views
• you don’t want a longer day
• you’re pairing this with other Palma sightseeing

If you’re hoping for multiple scenic viewpoints plus a drink stop, you’ll probably feel a bit teased off by the time limits.

The longer tour (around 4.5 hours) adds Cala de Estellencs

The longer drive is where the route starts to feel like a real scenic afternoon.

Stop 3: Cala de Estellencs viewpoint — about 20 minutes

This is the standout added stop. You’ll pull in at the viewpoint, do photos, and then you can grab a refreshing drink at the bar. That break matters because it shifts you from driving mode to just soaking in the view for a bit.

Why this stop is a win: you get a more relaxed pace without giving up the main motorsport fun. It also helps if your group has mixed driving comfort—passengers get a calm break, drivers reset and then head back out.

Port d’Andratx: the quick extra if traffic allows

There’s also a possible final photo peek at Port d’Andratx.

Stop 4: Port d’Andratx — about 5 minutes (only if time allows)

This stop is short and conditional. If the day runs smoothly, you might get a quick photo moment. If traffic or timing tightens, it may not happen.

So treat Port d’Andratx as a bonus, not a guarantee. That mindset keeps expectations aligned with how real driving schedules work.

Driving requirements and the comfort checklist that saves your day

Here’s the deal: you need to drive. The driver requirements are strict enough to matter, but clear enough that you can prepare.

• Minimum driver age: 21
• Driver experience: 2 years minimum
• Drivers must know how to drive manual transmission
• Copilot minimum age: 3
• Closed shoes are mandatory for the driver
• A helmet is provided

If you don’t drive manual confidently, this tour will be frustrating rather than fun. The cars are not automatic-style sightseeing vehicles. Expect to work your hands and feet a bit, especially with hills and twisting roads.

Also, the cars are open-air. That’s part of the charm, but it affects comfort:

• Wear sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Bring warm layers if you’re going outside summer.
• Wind can make it cold fast, even on a sunny day.

A small gear note: the experience doesn’t list accessories like intercom or similar tech, so if you’re coming with a group you’ll want to plan how you’ll communicate while driving.

Guides, pace, and how to stay safe without killing the fun

The driving is guided and convoy-style, which helps. Still, pace can be a real factor in how the day feels. Many participants love the fast, thrilling vibe and say it feels close to a race car for normal people.

At the same time, roads can be tricky in poor visibility or sudden rain. One account described a guide going too fast for the learning situation during bad weather. You should take that as a reminder: if weather looks questionable, keep your own comfort level high on your decision list, and follow the guide instructions without trying to push your limits.

A useful mindset:

• Ride the pace the guide sets.
• If you’re a new manual driver, focus on control and smoothness, not speed.
• Communicate with the guide before you get overwhelmed.

Guide names show up in accounts too, like Robin and Gio (from Formula Tours). The consistent theme is that good guiding is part of the value here—helping you handle the car and keeping the group organized.

Price value: what $71.20 buys you (and what it doesn’t)

At $71.20 per person for a tour that runs about 2 to 4 hours, you’re paying for three things:

1. the rare vehicle experience (a 3-wheeled, F1-style drive)
2. a professional guide and fuel/time costs
3. included gear (helmet) and light refreshments

Included are tour guidance, all taxes/fees/handling charges, use of a helmet, light refreshments, and fuel surcharge.

Not included:

• Food and drinks beyond the light refreshments (and the longer-tour bar stop)
• Insurance for the driver, listed as 30€ per driver

That driver insurance detail matters for budgeting. If you’re planning a driver/co-pilot mix, note that the insurance cost is tied to driver status, not just the passenger.

Also, group size can affect comfort. With a cap of 32 travelers, this usually doesn’t feel like a massive cattle-call. It still isn’t private, so you’ll share the experience with others on the road.

Getting there without losing your start time

The meeting point is Carrer de La Savina, 8, 07160 Peguera, Illes Balears. The tour ends back there.

This matters most if you’re arriving on a cruise. One common problem: people assume there are easy taxis right at the port, and then time slips away. If you’re doing this as a cruise stop, I strongly recommend lining up transport early—don’t gamble on last-minute options.

A practical pro move: give yourself extra buffer for paperwork and check-in. Some people reported the initial admin step can feel slow, even when the tour itself runs well.

When to go: season, weather, and what to wear

This experience requires good weather. If conditions aren’t right, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

From real-world comfort:

• Spring and autumn are often a sweet spot for open-air driving.
• Winter can feel too cold, even if the day looks sunny.

And regardless of season, remember you’ll be outdoors. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a plan for wind are not optional if you want to enjoy the ride instead of just surviving it.

Who should book this (and who should skip it)

This tour is a strong fit if:

• you want a driving experience, not just a viewpoint bus stop
• you can drive manual and you’re comfortable with hills
• you want classic Mallorca coast views plus ports and viewpoints in a few hours
• you’re traveling with someone who’s happy being a passenger and photographer

It’s a weaker fit if:

• you only drive automatic
• manual transmission is still new to you
• you’re not comfortable with fast, curvy road driving
• you’re expecting lots of walking through historic streets during the tour itself

Should you book the Formula Tours F1-style car drive in Mallorca?

I think it’s an easy yes if you want a rare, hands-on motorsport feel and you’re ready for manual driving. The included helmet, light refreshments, and guided route make it practical, and the stops are timed well for photos without dragging your day.

But book with eyes open. Weather matters. The ride can be spirited. And the start time can be tricky if you’re coming from a cruise port and rely on taxis at the last minute.

If that matches your style, this is one of those trips where you’ll remember the steering wheel time more than the postcard spots.

FAQ

How long is the Mallorca F1-style car experience?

It runs for about 2 to 4 hours, depending on which tour length you choose.

What stops are included on the route?

You’ll stop at Malgrats 2 (11081) for photos, Palma de Mallorca port for photos, and on the longer tour you also get a stop at Cala de Estellencs viewpoint. Port d’Andratx can be added if time and traffic allow.

Do I have to drive the 3-wheeled car?

Yes. You need to have a driving because you have to drive the car yourself.

What are the age and experience rules for drivers and copilots?

Drivers must be at least 21 years old and have a minimum of 2 years of experience. Copilots must be at least 3 years old.

Is a helmet included?

Yes. Helmet use is included.

Are food and drinks included?

Light refreshments are included. Food and drinks are not included, though the longer tour includes a bar stop where you can drink something.

Do I need insurance for the driver?

Driver insurance is not included. It is listed as 30€ per driver.

What if the weather is bad?

This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in a tour group?

The tour has a maximum of 32 travelers.