europe

The Definitive Guide to Hiking in Mallorca

Mallorca has a huge amount to offer – both in and out of season, and increasingly visitors are looking for a holiday here that is active (rather than the traditional one of sun, sea and sand); one during which they can really experience the place, and preferably without too many other tourists around. One of the best ways of doing this is by getting off the well-trodden tourist track – on foot.

In recent years local government has invested substantial funds to develop a network of hiking trails around the island and as a result there are plenty of well-marked paths that take you to some of the most stunning and totally un-spoilt parts of the island – parts that you can’t get to other than on foot. You’ll discover breathtaking scenery and views, villages tucked away with tiny homesteads and beautiful churches, mouth-watering local cuisine and locally grown produce – and a completely different Mallorca to the one you’ve always heard about.

Hiking in Mallorca

When it comes to walking in Mallorca, there is literally something for everyone. There are mountain peaks of 1,000+ meters to challenge the experienced hiker and there are easy, coastal walks to please those who like more of a stroll. There are also 2 long-distance hikes, the GR221 and the GR222 (still under construction). Many of the stages of both of these hikes can easily be broken down into a good day walk (some longer than others). So you don’t have to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy these fantastic trails…

One of the most popular walks on the island – for local residents as well as visitors - is a short climb to a ruined castle, the Castel d’Alaro, which is perched on a cliff-top with far-reaching views of the whole of the Bay of Palma. This is a short and easy walk (in spite of the climb!) with lots of highlights and historical points of interest along the way, and for this reason it has become a bit of a Sunday pilgrimage for many Mallorcan families. Most then reward themselves for the effort with a delicious local lamb lunch at the well-known Es Verger restaurant (a very rustic and very Mallorcan experience, which is a “must-do” if you’re in the area!).

Hiking in the North-West of Mallorca

The whole of the northwestern coastline of the island comprises the Tramuntana mountain range, so needless to say this is where there is the greatest concentration of good walks. The town of Sóller is the centre of walking country, and here you’ll find some of Mallorca’s classic hikes. For example, the Barranc de Biniaraix is a fabulous hike through a dramatic gorge, following the torrente along old cobblestone donkey paths, with an ascent (or descent if you prefer to walk downhill!) of more than 800 meters. Another classic, and another dramatic gorge hike in the area is the well-known Torrente del Pareis, but unlike the Barranc this is not something for the faint-hearted or the inexperienced hiker. This is one of the most challenging routes on the island and can be dangerous depending on the water levels of the torrente, so hiring a guide is highly recommended.

Hiking in the South of Mallorca

A little less dramatic, but equally beautiful and delightful walking country is the southwestern tip of the island, around Sant Elm and the pretty port of Andratx. There are some lovely intermediate walks here with excellent coastal views over the island of Dragonera. The ruined Trappist monastery of La Trapa is also worth a visit, and on the route of one of the prettiest walks in the area: Monastic Wanderings from Sant Elm

Hiking in the North-East of Mallorca

The north east of Mallorca also deserves a mention. This part of the island is less well known for walking but actually there are some fantastic routes here. So if you’re staying in the Alcudia, Cala Ratjada, or Artá areas, it’s well worth getting your walking boots on. Some of the coves and calas along this coast are stunning with azure blue seas, and on a clear day, you’ll often get a great view of Menorca.

Many of the walks on the island are now well-marked and easy to do on your own. But there are just as many that are not, and if you’d like to be safe and worry-free when it comes to path finding, Mallorca Hiking offers excellent local guides who enhance your experience with their local knowledge, expertise and stories.

This is a guest post provided by Fiona McLean of Mallorcahiking.com