Office hours: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:30; Sat 09:30 - 13:00
Office hours: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:30; Sat 09:30 - 13:00
Office hours: East Coast USA: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:30 (04:00 - 12:30 local time); Sat 09:30 - 13:00 (04:30 - 08:00)
West Coast USA: Mon - Fri 09:00 -17:30 (01:00 - 09:30 local time); Sat 09:30 - 13:00 (01:30 - 05:00)
Office hours: Ottawa: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:30 (04:00 - 12:30 local time); Sat 09:30 - 13:00 (04:30 - 08:00)
Vancouver: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:30 (01:00 - 09:30 local time); Sat 09:30 - 13:00 (01:30 - 05:00)
Office hours: Canberra: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:30 (20:00 - 04:30 local time); Sat 09:30 - 13:00 (20:30 - 24:00)
Office hours: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:30 (22:00 - 06:30 local time); Sat 09:30 - 13:00 (22:30 - 02:00)
Office hours: Mon - Fri 09:00 - 17:30 (check internet for local time equivalent); Sat 09:30 - 13:00
Mallorca: Palma and the Serra de Tramuntana – 9 nights (to Pollensa)
Where the mountains meet the Mediterranean
Back to Routes
Sea views on the way to Banyalbufar
Coming over the pass towards Lluc
Valldemossa
A typical Mallorcan path
Palma cathedral
Early morning near Gorg Blau
Soller
Bird's-eye views!
Alaro landscape in blossom
Terraces above Banyalbufar
A view to the coast
Santuari des Lluc
Banyalbufar sunset
At a glance
9 nights (8 days walking) - the extended route. Add extra nights in any hotel. See 'Prices' tab for what's included.
Suggested route pairing: Marina Alta
How much walking?
Full days: 4¾-20½ km per day, 1-8½ hrs walking
Using shortening options: 4¾-18¾ km per day, 1-6¼ hrs
The olive groves and dramatic sea coast of undiscovered Mallorca
This stunning walk shows to perfection two unspoilt faces of the island of Mallorca. Spend an evening in the relaxed and historic capital – Palma – and explore its labyrinthine streets, palace courtyards, art museums and elaborate cathedral before heading for the hills – the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. These limestone mountains form a dramatic landscape of peaks and deep valleys, largely undiscovered except by walkers. The fauna and flora are undisturbed and early spring (from mid February) walkers can have the added bonus of almond blossom time.
Unlike the other versions of this route, you’ll now transfer from Soller to the Cuber Lake and walk onwards over the Col de Prat to Lluc, Mallorca’s most important holy site and beyond to the charms of Pollensa. Please note that this is a challenging option as the walk from Cuber to Lluc cannot be shortened, other than taking a taxi the whole way.
Much of this Mallorcan walking tour route we have selected is on the GR221 so navigation is easy, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking views and dramatic landscapes. This is a route that can be enjoyed as a winter break (mild, though occasionally rainy), for the spring flowers or for autumn colour, and its extended season will suit those who can’t get away during the more conventional walking season.
Discover the other face of Mallorca – remote, high and wild, but with unequalled hospitality and wonderful food, and as far away from the seething crowds as it’s possible to be.
Walked by On Foot staff: Simon, Mary and Emma
Consider pairing this route with Marina Alta (5 hrs transfer by ferry to Denia) – for more details click here.
REVIEWS: For independent walker reviews submitted to the Association of Independent Tour Operators visit Aito.com.
ARTICLES: Read an article in The Telegraph newspaper about On Foot’s Mallorca holiday here.
TRAVEL ADVICE: To find the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office for UK citizens travelling to Spain, click here. Citizens of other nations will also find it useful, but should always check their appropriate local agency.
Route Highlights
- Sophisticated Palma and its gothic cathedral
- Winter blossoming orchards and orchids
- The Postman’s Path
- The Archduke’s Path to Deia
- The alleys and restaurants of Soller
- Lluc – Mallorca’s most important holy site
- Pollensa and its 17th century charm
- Mallorcan warmth and hospitality
- Birdwatching during spring and autumn migration
This route features the following characteristics and interests: Mountains, Villages and farms, Birdwatching
Things you should know
- There are some long and challenging walks, with a few long hauls up and tricky descents.
- Acrophobia may be an issue for some, especially the Archduke’s Path and the subsequent descent into Deia.
- Not all the accommodation is staffed at all times.
We Recommend
Why not spend an extra night in Soller and hire a bike from Tramuntana Tours. Explore the Soller valley and its byways, ride down to Port Soller for a swim. Consider extra nights in Pollensa or even at Port de Pollensa for some relaxation on the beach.
How much Walking?
Using shortening options: 4¾-18¾ km per day, 1-6¼ hrs
Well-marked paths and good signage; Valldemossa to Soller is hard, scrambling, vertiginous for some (see below). Highest point on route: 1220m.
Hard: Full route: Average cumulative uphill stretches (CUSs) 640m per day (150m-1070m).
Medium-hard: using shortening options: CUSs 495m per day (150m-900m).
NB: The averages for this walk are reduced by the Lluc Circuit, which is a short and easy walk to do on your spare day in the village, leaving you plenty of time to explore or just rest.
Acrophobia/vertigo warnings: The Archduke’s Path (Valldemossa to Deia) is not suitable for the acrophobic, but avoidable by taking the bus part way. Otherwise, no significant issues.
On Foot Holidays Companion app available for GPS navigation/mapping and all other documentation and advice. Separate GPX files for your own device also available.
Important note: Times given for each day are walking times for an “average” walker and exclude stops. “CUSs” stands for “Cumulative Uphill Stretches” and measures the aggregated ascents in each day, expressed in metres of climb. See “Walk Grading” for more information.
When to go?
The best months to walk: late February, March, April, May, October
Other possible months: June, September, November
This is a route that can be walked in the autumn, winter (except December and January) and spring, though the summer is too hot. February is almond blossom time but many hotels are closed in January and early February, which is why it’s not available until late February. However, the island is green – because it can rain at any time, particularly in the winter months – so make sure you are properly equipped. The wettest month is October, with heavy showers, often interspersed with sunshine. In low season (November and February) it can be difficult to find a full choice of restaurants open (especially in Valldemossa when it’s best to be there on Thu, Fri and Sat), so while there should be something open in every village every night, you won’t necessarily have a full gastronomic experience. Avoid Easter – we won’t be able to get you in.
Note: from April to September the route is busy and it is normally not possible to arrange one-night stays in Estellencs and Banyalbufar. Instead walkers normally stay two nights in Banyalbufar and use the local bus to enable all described walking to be done.
Start Dates
Weather Chart
Temperature and rainfall chart for Soller
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival day
Arrive in Palma and check into your hotel. Stroll around the town, visit the Gothic cathedral and why not try tapas before dinner?
Day 2 - Es Capdella to Estellencs
After a short taxi transfer to the village of Es Capdella, your first walk begins gently enough as it passes the Finca Galatzo (a historic estate house well worth a visit) and then winds its way up to the head of the Galatxo Valley, for views of the Med. It’s then down to Estellencs for a night in a rural hotel on the edge of the village. (Medium: 4¾ hrs walking (allow 6¼ hrs), 14 km (9 miles), CUSs 740m)
Day 3 - Estellencs to Banyalbufar
Explore rural Tramuntana by heading off the GR 221 for a short while to pass the Font de s’Obi and the Planicia estate before finally descending to lovely Penny’s hotel in Banyalbufar. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon exploring the village and tasting Banyalbufar’s unique Malvasia wine. (Easy-medium: 3¾ hrs walking (allow 5 hrs), 9¾ km (6 miles), CUSs 485m)
Day 4 - Banyalbufar to Valldemossa
A steep climb up from Banyalbufar over its ancient terraces is rewarded by a wonderful woodland path, the ‘Cami des Correu’ (The Postman’s Path), all the way to Esporles. The newly opened but quite tough stretch of the GR221 now takes you to Valldemossa, where you can visit its monastery (NB: closed Nov, Dec and Jan and Sundays), home to Chopin and George Sand or just relax on your hotel terrace. (Hard: 5½ hrs walking (allow 7¼ hrs), 16¾ km (10½ miles), CUSs 1000m)
Alternative: Stop at Esporles and take a taxi from there. (Easy-medium: 2¾ hrs walking (allow 3¾ hrs), 7½ km (4½ miles), CUSs 400m)
Day 5 - Valldemossa to Soller
It’s said that rewards come only after some effort and, following a stiff climb out of Valldemossa, there can be no greater prize than the amazing 360 degree views from the Archduke’s trail perched high atop the ridge. It’s then a spectacular descent into Deia, a picturesque village, once home to Robert Graves, and a perfect stop for lunch. A longish ramble follows through undulating Mallorcan countryside before joining the ‘Cami de Rocafort’ down to the fine old town of Soller. (Full route – Hard: 8½ hrs walking (allow 11¼ hrs), 20½ km (13 miles), CUSs 1070m)
Alternative: From Deia you can take the bus to Soller, worthy in itself of an afternoon perambulation (Medium-hard: 5¼ hrs walking (allow 7 hrs), 11 km (7 miles), CUSs 690m). Or for a shorter option, start with a bus to Deia and then walk from there to Soller (Medium: 3¼ hrs walking (allow 4¼ hrs), 9¾ km (6 miles), CUSs 380m).
Day 6 - Soller circuit, or rest day
A day of choices depending on your energy levels. You could simply spend the day in Soller exploring the town and the port, using the tram that links the two. In addition, you can try one of Jes’s suggested short and easy walks around this lovely valley.
Really experienced walkers (good weather only) can try the full Fornalutx circuit which, starting up the canyon known as the “Barrancs de Biniaraix”, climbs to the Col de l’Ofre, winds its way north across the mountain top and then descends steeply through the Portell de Sa Costa to Soller. A steep and tricky descent in places, over some scree and fallen trees, but worth it for the spectacular views. (Hard: 6¼ hrs walking (allow 8¼ hrs), 11 km (7 miles), CUSs 900m. Add a gentle 80 mins if starting from, and ending in, Sóller).
Day 7 - Soller (or Cuber) to Lluc
An epic day for the extremely hardy if done in its entirety! However, we think most of you will continue on with a short transfer (included) from Sóller to the Cúber reservoir.
From the Cuber reservoir, enjoy relatively easy mountain trails past Gorg Blau, whilst enjoying some very dramatic views. Then head up to the Col de Prat, with some amazing 360° views and opportunities to climb yet higher for even more spectacular vistas. The descent is long into Lluc, Mallorca’s most important holy site, where you will spend the night in the relative simplicity of the Sanctuary. (Sóller start – Very Hard: 10¾ hrs walking (allow 14 hrs), 25½ km (16 miles), CUSs 1400m). Cúber start: Medium-hard: 6¼ hrs walking (allow 8¼ hrs), 14¼ km (9 miles), CUSs 600m)
Day 8 - Lluc Circuit
Lluc is the spiritual centre of Mallorca and this short walk shows you some of the highlights of the area, including Es Camell, a striking naturally eroded rock formation uncannily resembling a petrified camel.
Thereafter, the walk explores more of the World Heritage Site and its unique and diverse landscape as cobbled paths pass under shaded holm oaks and past long abandoned charcoal burners’ sites. Back in the square enjoy a drink and watch the pilgrims as they pass by as you mentally ready yourself for journey’s end tomorrow. (Easy: 1 hr walking (allow 1¼ hrs), 4¾ km (3 miles), CUSs 150m)
Alternatives: Explore the Sanctuary and its grounds.
Day 9 - Lluc to Pollensa
Today you will leave the mountains behind you. Following a small climb at the start of the day, most of today’s walk is downwards as you head towards journey’s end and the charming, historic town of Pollensa or perhaps beyond to Puerto Pollensa, its sandier sister. Cafés and restaurants abound so you will be able to truly celebrate your adventure in style. (Medium: 5 hrs walking (allow 6¾ hrs), 18¾ km (11½ miles), CUSs 230m)
Depart for home
By taxi to the airport (included) – or back to Palma for a few more days sightseeing?
Travel Information
ARRIVING BY AIR
The only airport on Mallorca is Palma. Best intercontinental flights involve a change at Barcelona (daily flights to Palma).
Land by: No limitations
Return flight earliest: No limitations
Flight information can change rapidly and not all flights run daily. Please do check directly with the airlines’ websites or Skyscanner (see below) before finalising any booking with us. Do not book your flights until we have confirmed that we have provisionally reserved accommodation for you.
For up-to-date schedules and flights from all airports check Skyscanner.
See “Getting to the start of the walk” below for transfer information.
ARRIVING BY TRAIN
For a shorter holiday option, consider starting or ending at Soller (train connection with Palma).
Getting to the start of the walk
Getting to the start of the walk:
The first hotel is in the capital Palma, and the last in the village of Alaro.
PALMA AIRPORT:
Outward: shuttle bus 20 minutes, or taxi from rank direct to hotel. Pay locally.
Return: taxi from Alaro to airport (40 mins) included in holiday price.
Full transfer advice, is provided in your Walkers’ Pack. Contact us if you would like additional pre-booking information.
Where You'll Stay
This route is a little upmarket in terms of accommodation, all hotels being “boutique” in the best sense of the word, from the Palau Sa Font and San Lorenzo in Palma, through two little gems in Estellencs and Banyalbufar (try the paella at the latter) and to Es Petit at Valldemossa (spectacular views). Your final nights at Alaro are at a friendly, eco-conscious hotel in the heart of the village – or if walking the 9-night version you’ll stay in the simple but atmospheric rooms of the Santuari des Lluc, before more sophisticated options in Pollensa.
Note: from April to September the route is busy and it is normally not possible to arrange one-night stays in Estellencs and Banyalbufar. Instead walkers normally stay two nights in Banyalbufar and use the local bus to enable all described walking to be done. Two-night stays are mandatory at Santuari des Lluc (9 night version).
Night 1
Boutique hotel in a beautifully renovated, former 16th century palace. Small pool.
Night 1 (Upgrade)
Palma – Hotel Sant Francesc (B&B)
A restored 19th-century mansion, renovated to 5-star luxury, in the heart of the historic centre of Palma. Rooftop pool.
Night 2
Bijou historic pension, with pool, on the edge of the village, under Bernardo's expert eye. A table for dinner will be booked either at Sa Plana or in a village restaurant. Closed Nov to Jan incl.
Night 3
Banyalbufar – Hotel Son Borguny (B&B)
A pretty little hotel with the enthusiastic Penny as host. Excellent kitchen with local specialities.
Night 4 (Upgrade)
Valldemossa – Es Petit Hotel (B&B)
Best hotel in the village. Great views from the terrace. Nadal is a fine host.
Night 5 & 6
Home-from-home accommodation in newly renovated building dating back to the 19th century. Very clean and located just off the main square. Breakfast is taken at a nearby café.
Night 5 & 6 (Upgrade)
Stylish boutique hotel, with some lovely architectural details. Close to the town square. Pool.
Night 7 & 8
Lluc – Santuari des Lluc (B&B)
Converted monastery in the spiritual centre of Mallorca. Simple rooms. Pretty gardens. Two night minimum stay.
Night 9
Pollensa – Mon Boutique Hotel (B&B)
Newly refurbished 4* boutique hotel in the heart of Pollensa's historic centre.
Night 9 (Upgrade)
Luxury hotel in the heart of Pollensa with restaurant, spa and pool.
Palma – Palau Sa Font (B&B)
Boutique hotel in a beautifully renovated, former 16th century palace. Small pool.
Website
Palma – Hotel San Lorenzo (B&B)
Boutique hotel, with pool, in the fishermen's quarter of the old town.
Website
Palma – Hotel Sant Francesc (B&B)
A restored 19th-century mansion, renovated to 5-star luxury, in the heart of the historic centre of Palma. Rooftop pool.
Website
Estellencs – Sa Plana (B&B)
Bijou historic pension, with pool, on the edge of the village, under Bernardo's expert eye. A table for dinner will be booked either at Sa Plana or in a village restaurant. Closed Nov to Jan incl.
Website
Banyalbufar – Hotel Son Borguny (B&B)
A pretty little hotel with the enthusiastic Penny as host. Excellent kitchen with local specialities.
Website
Valldemossa – Ca’s Papa (B&B)
Newly renovated accommodation in the heart of the old town, adjacent to the Monastery and Royal Palace.
Website
Valldemossa – Es Petit Hotel (B&B)
Best hotel in the village. Great views from the terrace. Gonzalo is a fine host.
Website
Soller – Soller Plaza (B&B)
Home-from-home accommodation in newly renovated building dating back to the 19th century. Very clean and located just off the main square. Breakfast is taken at a nearby café.
Website
Soller – L’Avenida (B&B)
Stylish boutique hotel, with some lovely architectural details. Close to the town square. Pool.
Website
Lluc – Santuari des Lluc (B&B)
Converted monastery in the spiritual centre of Mallorca. Simple rooms. Pretty gardens.
Website
Pollensa – Mon Boutique Hotel (B&B)
Newly refurbished 4* boutique hotel in the heart of Pollensa's historic centre.
Website
Pollensa – Can Auli (B&B)
Luxury hotel in the heart of Pollensa with restaurant, spa and pool.
Website
More hotels in Palma
Palma has plenty of choice, as you can imagine, and we have sought out the ‘best of the rest’ as alternatives to those mentioned above.
The Hotel Icon Roseto (below) is a contemporary boutique hotel in the historic city centre, with a rooftop pool. The Calatrava Hotel and Hotel Can Cera both have great views of the Bay of Palma, along with spa facilities.
Prices
Total 9 nights in double/twin room, all breakfasts, transfer to start of first walk and from Alaro to airport (or Palma) at the end, luggage transfers between all hotels on walking route; full Walkers Pack with route directions, maps, transfer and background information; local telephone support.
Also included: On Foot Holidays Companion app, providing navigation/mapping and digital version of the Walkers’ Pack as above. Separate GPX files for your own device also available. If choosing to walk with app only (no printed materials): Discount of £40 per pack (based on one pack per room).
All prices are per person unless otherwise indicated, and are based on a standard booking in April. Prices may vary seasonally and a fixed price will be given to you before you commit.
Single Room Supplement (SRS): From £685
Lone Traveller Additional Supplement (LTAS): From £495
Large Party Saving (LPS): Groups of more than 2 people (on an identical itinerary, on the same booking and booked at the same time) – discount of at least £80 per person
Maximum party size: 10
Add Ons
Extra nights in any hotel: Check with On Foot Holidays (seasonal pricing applies)
Upgrade hotels available in Palma and Soller: Check with On Foot Holidays (seasonal pricing applies)
Guiding services by Jesca Scott: Price on application
Sending Walkers Packs to addresses outside the UK: Supplement payable per pack, location dependent.
Our local team
Jesca Scott
Jesca has lived in the foothills of Mallorca's beautiful Tramuntana mountains for 14 years with her husband and young family. She has been a keen hiker all her life, combined with a background in the preservation of historic buildings.
