” ‘A day in paradise,’ promises the brochure for the natural park ‘Reserva Park.’ 2.5 million square meters of idyll in Tramuntana, so close to the vibrant metropolis of Palma? As we take the ‘Son Moix’ exit on the Via Cintura, it’s still hard for us to imagine. But Mallorca’s hallmark is undoubtedly an incredible diversity in a compact space.”
Just 14 kilometers from Palma lies the picturesque village of Puigpunyent. At the southern edge of the village, a sign points the way to the Reserva. Now it’s our turn to travel a stretch through forest paths until we reach the parking area. As soon as we get out of the car, a proud family of ducks walks past us.
At the entrance, we receive a map of the Reserve and purchase the “Local Flora Directory of the Protected Area.” A large bear enclosure is the first attraction on the 3.7-kilometer circular trail. Just a few steps ahead, at the “Queen’s Lookout,” we enjoy a postcard view over the d’es Ratxo Valley.
It’s no wonder that the first settlements were established in this dreamlike landscape in the 6th century B.C. The deeper we go into the forest, the more intense the aroma of Aleppo pines becomes. The holm oaks provide refreshing shade. Rare lichens are a sign of the healthy climate. Impressive waterfalls and small caves invite you to take a break.
Suddenly, we hear a harsh “Kjää-kjää, kjää-kjääää.” With the binoculars, we can see an Eleonora’s falcon very high up. The rare bird species inhabits the crevices of the rocks at Puig de Galatzó, the bird guide informs us a few steps from the “Reco de ses Bruixes,” as the resting place with a charcoal pit is called.
With just the press of a button, we can listen to the sounds of different bird species. Then, it’s time to close our eyes and sharpen our ears. In the nesting area, we can test our ability to identify different species by their songs.
The “Vall de les Sis Fonts” rest area would be easy to find even without a map: just follow the smell of the succulent barbecue! At the bar, we buy drinks and meat to grill ourselves. All around us, just happy faces. Could the “Reserva Puig de Galatzó” compete with the Garden of Eden? Without a doubt, it is an absolute natural paradise for stressed-out urbanites.
What to bring: sportswear, sturdy footwear, camera, binoculars (for birdwatching), bird guidebook, food for grilling (although there’s also meat available for grilling at the bar).
Address:
Reserva Park
www.lareservaaventur.com
E-Mail: info@lareservaaventur.com
Tel.: 971-61 66 22
Hours: every day from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (ticket office closes at 5:00 PM)
Access by car: exit at Son Moix/Can Valero Puigpunyent on the Via Cintura, signposted from Puigpunyent, large parking lot with picnic tables and playground
Guided bus tours: Ask at hotels in the coastal areas!
Tip: The Reserve also features an elaborate adventure park (mountain biking, climbing, zip lines, hanging bridges, etc.). An additional entry fee is required for this separate area.
Other Nature Parks in Mallorca
15 km
53 km
57 km
65 km
