Mallorca is a place where mountains meet the Mediterranean — a landscape shaped by limestone cliffs, terraced olive groves, and hidden coves of turquoise water. The island’s Serra de Tramuntana range, a UNESCO World Heritage site, runs like a spine along the northwest coast, sheltering storybook villages and offering some of the most varied hiking in Europe. Ryder-Walker’s trek through Mallorca reveals this perfect blend of rugged peaks and coastal charm, from quiet inland valleys scented with citrus to dramatic ridgelines where the sea spreads out in every shade of blue.
Our journey begins in Sóller, a picturesque town ringed by orchards and mountains, linked to Palma by a historic wooden tram. From here, we set out into the Tramuntana, hiking to the Cúber Reservoir and descending through the Biniaraix Gorge — a lush, stepped ravine carved by centuries of agriculture. We’ll also visit Tossals Verds, one of the original Spanish refugis, tucked into the highlands. Moving on to Deià, the island’s bohemian enclave, we follow winding paths through olive groves and pine forests to reach limestone cliffs before dropping into Valldemossa, a cobblestoned gem with a rich cultural heritage.
Hiking in Mallorca is a study in contrasts. Trails might lead along sunbaked coastal cliffs where waves crash far below, or into cool, shaded ravines where streams wind between ancient terraces. Inland routes pass through pastoral farmland, while mountain paths crest ridgelines with panoramic views of both sea and interior. The blend of seaside and summit walking, plus the ease of moving between remote landscapes and charming towns, makes Mallorca an ideal hiking destination for travelers who want variety every day.
Mallorcan culture is as layered as its landscapes. Moorish, Catalan, and maritime traditions mingle in its architecture, music, and cuisine. Meals highlight the island’s bounty: freshly caught seafood, rustic breads, olive oil from centuries-old groves, and local wines. Markets brim with produce and traditional delicacies like sobrasada, a paprika-cured sausage. The people of Mallorca are known for their warmth and pride in their island’s heritage, greeting visitors with a hospitality shaped by centuries of seafaring exchange.
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