The mountain range of the Serra de Tramuntana, located in the northwest of Mallorca, represents a unique and wild natural beauty, fantastic views, and famous tourist attractions like no other landscape in the Balearic Islands.
In 2011, UNESCO declared the region a World Heritage Site in the category of Cultural Landscape, as the mix of towering mountains, gentle valleys, winding roads, and picturesque villages is unique. It also demonstrates how the interaction between humans and nature can work perfectly, as people have lived here for 4,000 years.
Geographical Location & Climate
In total, the Serra de Tramuntana covers more than 1,000 square kilometers. With a length of 90 kilometers, this mountain range largely defines the landscape of the island.
It descends abruptly towards the coast, while gentle hills prevail inland on the island. Deep gorges, bizarre rocks, and majestic peaks give this magnificent natural wonder an unmistakable character.
Naturally, within this mountain range lies the highest mountain in Mallorca: Puig Major, standing at 1,445 meters tall. In January and February, it is often covered with snow. Very few people can climb to the summit of Puig Major, as it is a restricted military area.
The weather in the Serra de Tramuntana is usually a bit cooler than in other parts of the Balearic island, partly due to the north wind.
Probablemente, the name of the mountain range comes from this, as in Catalan, Tramuntana means “north on the wind rose.” The second highest mountain in the Sierra de Tramuntana, after Puig Major, is Puig de Massanella, at 1,364 meters.
What excursions can be taken in the Serra de Tramuntana?
There are many options for engaging in unforgettable activities and excursions in the mountainous region. The Serra de Tramuntana stretches from Andratx and Peguera, through Sóller, Valldemossa, and Sa Calobra, to the impressive Formentor peninsula.
First and foremost, there are hikes and visits to places of cultural and historical interest. Countless trails traverse the landscape and charming towns, offering a wide variety of activities during vacations. Cycling routes through the mountains are also very popular.
Popular attractions in Tramuntana
Driving Through the Serra de Tramuntana
A car ride can also be charming. First of all, I recommend the Ma-10 from Valldemossa through Deià to Sóller. The approximately 20-kilometer route passes through beautiful scenery with olive and almond trees, vineyards, and lemon groves.
The travel time from Andratx to Sóller is approximately an hour and a half. Along the way, there are also the two villages of Valldemossa and Deià. The road winds like a snake along the steep coastline, characteristic of the Serra de Tramuntana.
Good to know:
Mallorca has been planning for some time to restrict private traffic in the Serra de Tramuntana. The reason is to preserve the island’s nature and culture. Therefore, it might be helpful to find out the current legal status of the desired routes before going on a driving excursion.
Easy Hiking Trails in the Serra de Tramuntana: The Best Examples
One of the highlights of the Serra de Tramuntana is undoubtedly the picturesque mountain villages. One of these villages is the starting point of a delightful nine-kilometer hike. It begins at a parking area located about a kilometer east of Banyalbufar and leads along well-maintained trails along the stunning rugged coastline.
Along the way, hikers enjoy spectacular views of the famous Banyalbufar terraces. The destination is Port des Canonge, where charming restaurants invite a break before returning.
In my experience, it takes about three hours for this hike without stops.
Extra tip:
Three kilometers outside Banyalbufar towards Estellencs is the Mirador de Ses Ànimes. The view of the Mallorca coast and the mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana from here is simply sensational.
Those who walk from the estate Son Marroig near Deià to the famous Punta de Sa Foradada can admire at the end one of the most interesting sights in Mallorca: the same-named rock hole, a wonder of nature.
It is one of those places on the island that you will surely never forget and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, just like the entire Serra de Tramuntana. You should plan about 2.5 hours for this route.
One of my favorite hikes, which I do at least once a year, is the climb to Alaró Castle. This hike can also be done with children. Once at the top, though, you have to be a bit careful with the kids, as the cliffs are not protected.
Moderate trails through the mountains
The 14-kilometer route from Sóller to Port de Sóller is one of the most paradisiacal hiking trails in the Serra de Tramuntana. It starts at the Sóller station and passes through olive groves and orange orchards. From the mountains, you can admire the bay.
Therefore, it’s worth taking a break during the hike to enjoy the spectacular view. The route isn’t too demanding, but since you have to conquer 240 meters of altitude, a certain level of physical fitness is required.
For many hikers, the GR221 long-distance trail is the most beautiful route in the mountains. It’s also known as the Dry Stone Route. The GR221 covers eight stages and stretches from Andratx to Pollença through the Serra de Tramuntana.
Some stages are over 1000 meters high, but there are also some easier ones at moderate heights. The stage between Deià and Sóller, for example, is one of my favorites: More than three hours of walking through idyllic olive groves and orange orchards.
If you go hiking in Tramuntana, you should definitely try a section of the GR221. The Dry Stone Route is one of the most beautiful hikes in Mallorca.
Richard Hanke
Another moderate hike begins shortly after Palma, in Bunyola. It passes through a beautiful forest and climbs to a mountain called Penyals d’Honor.
In the forest, you can admire ancient water reservoirs and lime kilns, and in the mountains, a spectacular panoramic view awaits. On the way back, you pass by the cave houses of Sa Cova. Duration of the route: approximately five hours.
Challenging routes in the Serra de Tramuntana
The circular trail from the Lluc Monastery in the Serra de Tramuntana is one of the challenges of the mountain range. It is aimed at experienced hikers, even though the total length is only 16.5 kilometers. But the ascent alone stretches for eight kilometers!
The starting and ending point is the well-known Lluc Sanctuary. The highest point at 1205 meters is the Coll des Prat. The estimated hiking time for this mountain route is six hours. Good shoes suitable for the mountain are a must. Additionally, surefootedness is an absolutely necessary condition. However, the circular trail is one of the highlights of the Tramuntana Mountains.
Also, when walking from Deià to the rocky cove Cala Deià, it’s essential to wear sturdy footwear, as the paths are mostly unpaved. Famous artists once lived in Deià: residents included, for example, Pablo Picasso and Peter Ustinov.
During a visit, you can follow in the footsteps of these personalities. First, you descend the GR 221 directly to the water. Here you can relax after the hike, jump into the sea, or grab something to eat at a restaurant. The way back is all uphill, making this hike one of the most exhausting activities in Mallorca.
Pearls in the Serra de Tramuntana: The Reservoirs of Mallorca
The Serra de Tramuntana is famous for its beautiful reservoirs. At the foot of Puig Major, nestled among the mountain beauty, are the “Cúber” and “Gorg Blau” reservoirs. Both reservoirs greatly contribute to the water supply for the island’s capital, Palma, and are connected by a channel.
Here you will also find the Torrent de Pareis canyon, framed by high rock walls: a popular destination for guided canyoning tours! Here, once, a rushing stream carved its way to the Mediterranean Sea through the rocks.
Fun fact:
Some also call the Torrent de Pareis the Grand Canyon of Mallorca.
Around the “Cúber” there is a beautiful trail, also suitable for families, which can be easily walked in an hour and a half. Benches invite you to rest, and some open areas are perfect for a picnic.
The climbing path to the summit of the Puig de l’Ofre is reserved for experienced climbers. This part of Mallorca, around the two reservoirs, charms with its rich species of flora and fauna. Wild goats are often seen in the Serra de Tramuntana, climbing the mountains fearlessly and boldly.
They find the ideal habitat in the Serra de Tramuntana. You often see sheep, cows, and donkeys as well. If you occasionally look up towards the peaks, you might even spot a griffon vulture.
More wonderful activities in the Serra de Tramuntana
A visit to the Cap de Formentor at the northern tip of the island of Mallorca is almost a must during vacation. The locals of Mallorca also refer to the peninsula as the “meeting point of the winds,” as the stunning rugged coastline was shaped by water and wind.
Discover places in the Serra de Tramuntana
Seaside walkways alongside Mediterranean rural life: The municipality of Andratx brings together many contrasts.
The idyllic mountain village of Biniamar, with about 400 inhabitants, is one of the smallest in Mallorca.
The artistic village is located on a hill at the edge of the Serra de Tramuntana.
Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Fornalutx is a place you will fall in love with.
Approximately 200,000 people gather each year on the third Thursday of November in Inca to celebrate "Buena Vista" or "Dia del Buitre."
Every year, on Good Friday, thousands of islanders and tourists make a pilgrimage to the Descent from the Cross procession at the Calvary.
A paradise for water sports enthusiasts and families! The Bay of Pollença is protected, so there are almost no waves and the water is quite shallow.
Sant Elm captivates with its idyllic location and paradisiacal beach. Additionally, its culinary offerings are sensational.
Throughout the year, the charming town of Sóller, along with its port, Port de Sóller, is in full high season.
As the refuge of George Sand and Frédéric Chopin, Valldemossa has always been a magnet for tourists.
From Cap Formentor, you can enjoy one of the most fascinating views of the island. The two villages, Fornalutx and Valldemossa, located in the heart of the Serra de Tramuntana, are also worth seeing with their picturesque houses and traditional culture.
When I feel like having a soda after hiking in the Serra de Tramuntana, I like to visit one of the beautiful nearby beaches. My favorites are the beach of Port de Sóller and Cala de Sa Calobra.
I can also recommend the Cala de Valldemossa and, at the northwestern tip, the Cala de Sant Vicenç. And if you just want to take a leisurely stroll through charming streets, you should visit Andratx and Calvià.
To conclude, an exciting tip for drivers in Mallorca: the winding 14-kilometer road to Sa Calobra not only has twelve sharp bends but also the so-called “tie knot”.
This spectacular curve makes a loop of no less than 270 degrees and finally passes underneath itself! If you want to experience the roads of Mallorca up close in the Serra de Tramuntana, don’t miss this route. For the construction of the winding road, 30,000 cubic meters of rock were removed, partly by hand.
Paradise in the Northwest of Mallorca
The Serra de Tramuntana is the wild and romantic heart of Mallorca, and for any nature lover, it’s a pure delight. Whether on foot or by car, a leisurely walk or a challenging route, here everyone finds what they’re looking for.
Other regions in Mallorca
- Central Mallorca
- North
- Northeast
- East
- Southeast
- South
- Southwest
- West
- Serra de Tramuntana
- Cap de Formentor
