There are various routes to admire Mallorca's landscapes, distinguished by their diverse nature, ranging from mountains to beaches, caves, and parks. Today we'll slow down and stop in the Tramuntana Mountains. If you're looking for hiking excursions in Mallorca, this is undoubtedly one of the best options, as it offers a wide range of options for hiking enthusiasts.
The iconic routes you can't miss in Mallorca
The Tramontana Mountains (Serra de Tramuntana in Mallorcan) are located in the northwest of the island of Mallorca. Its name comes from the Tramontana wind, which blows coldly from the north over the Balearic Islands and northeastern Catalonia. In total, it comprises 18 municipalities and has a total population of over 110,000.
Furthermore, the Tramontana mountain range is home to three large reservoirs: Cúber and Gorg Blau, which supply water to Palma de Mallorca, and Puig Mayor, used by the military. The latter also houses the highest point on the islands, reaching 1,445 meters.
Among the Main excursions you can do in the Sierra de Tramontana are found:
- The climb to Puig de Galatzó
- The climb to Puig del Teix de Valldemosa
- The Binairaix Ravine route
- The route of the camí vell de Lluc
Whichever option you choose, it will be a great route in Mallorca for mountain lovers.
Ascent to Puig de Galatzó
The path to Puig de Galatzó is one of the most popular hiking routes in the Sierra de Tramontana. Due to its impressive views of the island, its natural surroundings, and heritage sites such as charcoal burners and lime kilns, the summit, at over 1,000 meters above sea level, offers views of other mountains, several towns, and the city of Palma itself.
With a total length of 12 kilometers, the Puig de Galatzó trail is a hike that requires a full day, as it takes between 4 and 5 hours to complete. While it's easy to follow in terms of difficulty, it requires a good level of physical fitness, as the route is long and the final section involves a more challenging ascent.
Another way to get to Puig de Galatzó is through the Puigpunyent slopeHere lies a wonderful mountain village surrounded by incredible natural scenery where one can find peace and quiet. This dream location has just 1,400 residents and charming bars and restaurants so people can enjoy their stay.
Another nearby town that can be added to this route is the Estellencs slopeIt's impossible not to fall in love with this place, thanks to its history and its cobblestone streets that lead from the church to the sea. Estellencs is the municipality with the lowest population density in Mallorca, with around 400 residents. Its scenic, ecological, and natural beauty make this iconic location one of the most picturesque on the island.
Climb to Puig del Teix de Valldemosa
Valldemossa is one of the most beautiful villages in the Tramontana. With more than 2,000 inhabitants, its narrow, steep streets offer a special charm. Its main attraction is the Cartuja de Valldemossa, an old palace that was the residence of King Sancho I of Majorca and where Frederic Chopin, Miguel de Unamuno and Ruben Darío, among others, have passed through.
One of the most amazing trails that come out from there is the one of the climb to Puig del TeixIts summit, which rises more than 1,000 meters above sea level, offers spectacular views of the Mallorcan coast. The rocky trail follows a circular path around the mountain for 8 kilometers.
This route is partly done by the Archbishop's Way, a path steeped in history that was commissioned by Archduke Ludwig Salvator of Austria, a pioneer of tourism in the Balearic Islands. According to legend, the reason he commissioned this great feat of engineering was to breathe fresh air and thus relieve the symptoms of his asthma. The Camí de s'Arxiduc offers a unique perspective of Valldemossa, the mountains, and the coast, and is one of the best places in Spain to watch the sunset.
Another of the trails that start from Valldemossa is the one that goes to the Ses Puntes Viewpoint and the Voltor Mountain. Please note that you must apply for a vehicle permit before embarking on this excursion. The Ses Puntes viewpoint, also known as Mirador de Can Costa, is possibly one of the largest and most striking in Mallorca. You can reach it after a one-hour hike (half of it uphill) and it's an ideal place for taking photos.
Biniaraix Ravine Route
Another fairly simple hiking route that can be easily done as a family is the Biniaraix RavineWith a duration of approximately two hours, its cobbled paths make it one of the best trails in the Tramontana mountain range.
This excursion departs from the town of Biniaraix, A place characterized by its green landscapes and orange groves, with just over 500 inhabitants. The trail's final destination is the ravine itself, formed by giant rocks and a stream.
The Biniaraix Ravine route is part of the famous Dry Stone Route (Dry stone route or GR221), declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCOThis entire route, over 167 km long (87 km on the main route and another 82 on alternative routes), owes its name to the dry stone walls that run through the island's heights. Furthermore, thanks to the local climate, the Dry Stone Route can be hiked at any time of the year.
Pilgrims' hiking route: the Cami Vell de Lluc
Every year, on the first Saturday of August, the Walk from the Grotto to Lluc on foot (March from Güell to Lluc on foot) which has already attracted more than 50,000 pilgrims who walk from Plaça Güell to the Monastery of Lluc. It is one of the most popular events in the Balearic Islands and consists of a 48-kilometer walk that lasts between 8 and 12 hours.
As part of this walk, you will find the Old Road of Lluc, one of the most outstanding trails on the Lluc hiking route. This cobbled path, which can be walked in about two hours and begins in the village of Caimari, offers views of some of the most exceptional landscapes in the Tramontana mountain range.
To make the travel experience even more complete, it is advisable to make a stop at It's GuixThis restaurant, located just 2 km from Lluc, tucked away in a forest in the heart of the Tramontana Mountains, is ideal for sampling the best of Mallorcan cuisine surrounded by a unique natural setting. make your reservation in just one minute.
