Mallorca, a land of exceptional beauty, boasts a multitude of natural wonders, with its most prominent gem being the majestic Serra de Tramuntana. This rugged backbone spans over 80 kilometers along the entire north coast of the island, stretching from Sa Dragonera to Cap de Formentor.
The captivating landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana offers an unparalleled opportunity for hiking enthusiasts. But be forewarned, not all the trails here are a walk in the park. Many pose technical challenges with rocky terrains that will test your skills and endurance. If you're up for a multi-stage trekking adventure, this island covers you with the GR-221 Mallorca trip.
Puig de Galatzo
Nestled within the grandeur of the Serra de Tramuntana, Puig de Galatzó emerges as a remarkable mountain, proudly dominating the western landscape of Mallorca. Towering at an impressive height of 1,027 meters, it claims the title of the highest peak in the western sector of the Majorcan mountain range.
Ascending to its summit presents 2 primary routes:
Estellencs. The journey commences adjacent to the Ma-10, the scenic road tracing the north coast, near the charming town of Estellencs. Covering approximately 11 kilometers and boasting an elevation gain of 800 meters, this route demands moderate to high physical endurance. Many consider this option to be the most captivating.
Standard. It leads from the Puigpunyent side. In this case, the ascent involves conquering a positive slope of roughly 500 meters, with the route spanning just under 5 kilometers.
Galatzó's strategic location grants it the advantage of offering breathtaking views of the distant mountains of Alicante, particularly on days of exceptional visibility.
Puig des Teix (Valldemossa)
Embarking on the ascent to Puig des Teix from the picturesque village of Valldemossa is an exciting hiking adventure. Nestled within the enchanting Tramuntana Mountains, it offers the most diverse experience for hikers.
This challenging trek grants hikers the privilege of traversing one of the most exquisite mountain cobblestone paths, known as El Camí de s’Arxiduc. This trail boldly hugs the northern coastline of Majorca, providing breathtaking vistas of the iconic Sa Foradada.
It's worth noting that this particular route requires permission as it ventures into a restricted area.
Barranc de Biniaraix (Sóller)
The Serra de Tramuntana possesses a unique charm rooted in its cultural heritage, particularly its association with dry stone architecture. Notably, this cultural facet was pivotal in earning the Majorcan Mountains the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 2011.
The artistry of stone walls and cobblestone paths attains its zenith in the bridle path that winds its way determinedly through the Barranc de Biniaraix near Sóller.
This hike forms part of one of the long-distance GR221 Mallorca trail segments, known as the "Ruta de la Piedra en Seco" or the Dry Stone Route, which traverses the entirety of the Tramuntana range. The only downside to this route is its linear nature (an out-and-back journey), but the sheer beauty of the path more than compensates for this minor inconvenience. Rest assured, the route is well-marked, eliminating any chances of losing your way.
It is better to leave your car in Sóller and embark on the hike from there. The path leading to the charming village of Biniaraix is a delight. Following periods of heavy rainfall, the ravine takes on an exceptionally enchanting allure, making it an ideal time to experience its splendor.
Puig de Massanella
Ranking as the second-highest peak in Mallorca, towering at an impressive 1,364 meters, Puig de Massanella stands as a majestic mountain, second only to the Puig Major massif. Massanella's absence of a military base atop its summit sets it apart, making it even more appealing.
This iconic mountain had many hikers under its spell right from the start, exerting a magnetic pull that they found irresistible.
Several routes lead to its summit, but we recommend you begin in Lluc, ascending through the enchanting cobbled path known as "les Voltes d’en Galileu". This route offers mesmerizing vistas and aligns with the GR-221 trail. After conquering Coll des Telègraf and Coll des Prat, hikers encounter the ascent's most challenging section, a pass separating Massanella from the Bassetes. Here, only those with prior hiking experience should go further.
The result of Puig de Massanella is an incredibly scenic and rewarding mountain adventure, perfect for those seeking a comprehensive and enjoyable trek.
Camí de Cala Bóquer
Nestled between the picturesque hills of Serra del Cavall Bernat and Es Morral, the hidden gem that is Cala Bóquer Cove awaits in the northwest corner of Mallorca.
The Camí de Cala Bóquer trail offers a wonderfully uncomplicated and straightforward hike through the natural splendor of the Formentor Peninsula. You can kickstart this adventure from various points in Port de Pollença or opt for the Bóquer car park, conveniently located just off the Ma-2200 highway.
Upon reaching the car park, keep an eye out for the "Camí de Cala Bóquer" trail sign and follow the broad gravel road as it leads you northward. You'll soon encounter a black metal gate, a clear indication that dogs, camping, and fires are strictly prohibited in the area.
Within the valley, several footpaths crisscross, none significantly better than the other. As you approach the coastline, the trail diverges at Coll de Moro. Opt for the left path to reach the secluded Cala Bóquer beach or venture right to the cliff edge for breathtaking coastal vistas.
Conclusion
So, Mallorca's stunning landscapes offer a wealth of hiking and walking opportunities that allow visitors to connect with the island's natural beauty on a profound level. From the dramatic cliffs of the Serra de Tramuntana to the serene shores of hidden coves, Mallorca's diverse terrain invites exploration and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a leisurely stroll, Mallorca has something to offer everyone.
These 5 hikes and walks we've explored in this article are just the tip of the iceberg, and the island is filled with countless more trails waiting to be discovered. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your walking stick, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Mallorca – a paradise for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.
Whether you're seeking solitude, adventure, or simply a way to appreciate the island's natural beauty, Mallorca's hiking trails are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this enchanting Mediterranean gem.
BIO:
Stacey Wonder is a content marketer who enjoys sharing best practices for self-development and careers with others. In her free time, Stacey is fond of contemporary dance and classic French movies. You may feel free to reach out to her at GuestpostingNinja@gmail.com or for collaboration suggestions.
