In 2011, UNESCO World Heritage Site status was awarded to Mallorca’s magnificent Serra de Tramuntana. This impressive mountain range – almost 90km long – forms the backbone of Mallorca, and stretches from Andratx in the southwest to the Cap de Formentor in the far north of the island.
Along the way are two lakes – the Gorg Blau and Cúber reservoirs – and the soaring peaks of Puig Major (1,445m) Teix, Massenella, and Tomir. The rural landscape is dominated by ancient dry stone terracing and walls, and nature’s own sculptures – gnarled centuries-old olive trees – but there are also towns and villages worth visiting for their cultural and historical interest (Deià, Valldemossa, Fornalutx and Sóller are all located in the Tramuntana). It’s also where you’ll find the dramatic Torrent de Pareis and the Mallorcans’ beloved Lluc monastery, as well as important country estates.
Stepping out
The Tramuntana is a combination of Islamic and Western cultures, and man’s ability to work in harmony with the natural environment. Ancient irrigation systems from the time of the Arab occupation of Mallorca still exist, and the dry stone terraces – built to create space to grow produce in a somewhat challenging agricultural landscape – are a distinctive feature of the mountain landscape.
The Balearics’ longest long-distance path takes its name from the Tramuntana’s abundant dry stone structures. The 8-stage ‘ruta de pedra en sec’, or Dry Stone Route (GR221), stretches from Andratx to Pollença, offering hikers a varied and authentic experience of ‘the other Mallorca’, and the chance to tread old cobbled paths that once linked mountain communities. Official maps and guides are available, and the GR221 has its own website. Take some binoculars if you go hiking or walking here and you’re sure to spot something of interest.
Mallorca is paradise for hikers with the mountain range of Serra de Tramuntana to explore in a wonderful climate. Here is your guide to hiking in Mallorca. […] Hiking in Mallorca
Take refuge
The Dry Stone Route’s official mountain refuges offer affordable places to eat and stay overnight. Make advance bookings through the Consell de Mallorca website. Castell d’Alaró is a unique refuge in a rugged rock-face castle. The Sanctuary of Lluc – although not a GR221 refuge – offers accommodation; book well in advance.
A family day out
The Consell de Mallorca is now a partner in the European ‘Rando pour la Culture’ (Walking for Culture) programme, promoting the traditions, culture, flora and fauna, and architecture of rural areas. The first stage offers three new family-friendly Tramuntana trails that can be done in a day, including walking routes for Alaró Castle, Deià, and s’Esquena de s’Ermita, Selva. Participants can also enjoy cultural activities in Alaró, Deià, and Selva.
Alaró is nestled in a peaceful valley on the southern slopes of the Tramuntana Mountain. Discover its charming streets, restaurants and don’t miss the weekly market! […] Alaró
The authentic small town of Selva in the centre of Mallorca offers a traditional laid-back atmosphere. Find out the many reasons why a visit to Selva is highly recommended. […] Selva
Tramuntana towns
The traditional southwest rural market town Andratx is brought to life by its Wednesday market. Visit the imposing 13th-century church of Santa Maria.
Less than 20km from Palma, Valldemossa was described by Chopin as the most beautiful place in the world. He and George Sand lodged one winter in a cell at the Real Cartuja monastery. Valldemossa is also home to an annual Chopin music festival, the humble birthplace of Santa Catalina Thomàs, and popular local delicacy ‘coca de patata’.
Surrounded by the citrus orchards of a fertile valley, the handsome town of Sóller has many Modernist buildings and French influences. A wooden train connects the town with Palma, and old trams rattle along from the town centre to the Port de Sóller. The Moors & Christians battle re-enactment in May and autumn classical music festival in the port are cultural highlights.
The charming town of Pollença – popular with artists – has a good Sunday morning market, and wander-worthy narrow streets. The town hosts an annual summer cultural festival, Moors & Christians mock battle (August), and large wine fair in spring, in the Santo Domingo cloisters. The 365 steps of Calvari hill are the setting for a moving ceremony every Good Friday.
Discover the traditional town of Andratx, its weekly market, one of the island’s best modern art galleries, and good restaurants. Highly recommended visit! […] Andratx
Discover the beauty and rich cultural heritage of Valldemossa, the historic town in West Mallorca within the Tramuntana mountain range. Read more… […] Valldemossa
The town of Sóller is one of the most beautiful in Mallorca. It is paradise for hikers and cyclists, gourmet lovers and a desirable option to live. Her is your complete guide to Sóller. […] Sóller
Pollensa town in the north of Mallorca offers lots to see & do, enchanting surrounding areas, great restaurants and hotels plus lots more. […] Pollensa
Picture perfect
Mallorca’s most picturesque villages nestle in the Serra de Tramuntana. For a mountainous backdrop and dreamy Mediterranean views, visit the terraced coastal village of Banyalbufar or, artists’ haven, Deià. The Habsburg Archduke Ludwig Salvator (Luis Salvador) came to Mallorca in the 19th century and acquired important estates in the Tramuntana: Son Marroig, Miramar, and S’Estaca (now owned by Hollywood actor Michael Douglas).
Son Marroig is the venue for the annual Deià International Music Festival concerts. In the Sóller valley, protective mountains surround you in Fornalutx – often touted as Spain’s prettiest village – and the hamlet of Biniaraix.
Known as the ‘Prettiest village in Spain’, with narrow, cobbled streets it is certainly worth a visit. Four hotels and a few cafes, it is a quiet spot in the Tramuntana and close to Sóller. […] Fornalutx
Rock on!
The wilder and more remote parts of the Tramuntana make an adrenalin-pumping adventure playground for extreme-sports fans. The opportunities offered by the dramatic and challenging rocky terrain have made Mallorca a magnet for activities such as coasteering, rock climbing, and canyoning – for which Sa Fosca canyon is considered Europe’s best. Several specialist adventure sport companies offer training and excursions in prime Tramuntana locations, including Rocksport Mallorca and Món d’Aventura.
There’s no skiing in the Tramuntana, but winter snow can be enough to close some of the roads through the mountains. The winter white-capped peak of the Puig Major gives a special beauty to the Serra de Tramuntana – and you can see it from across the island.
Our Mallorca sports special: a staggering array of activities await to arouse your passion, keep you fit and help you see the island from a new perspective. […] Sports and Activities Mallorca
Road trip
Tackle the breathtaking Coll de Sóller bends or snaking Sa Calobra pass for a thrilling drive or ride. Tramuntana Cycling rents bicycles (the Tramuntana is used as a challenging training ground for cycling teams from all over Europe) and Albion Motorcycles offers classic motorbike tours. For your dream luxury drive, choose your wheels from Rent a Classic Car Mallorca, Rent a Classic Mallorca, or Mallorca Driving.
One writer – an avid cyclist – talks frankly of his experiences of riding a bike in Palma city compared to other regions of Mallorca. […] Cycling in Mallorca
Blooming beautiful
Alfàbia’s gorgeous gardens were mentioned in literature at the time the Moors occupied Mallorca. The nearby redeveloped Raixa estate has a lovely garden and the Tramuntana Interpretation Centre. Visit Sóller Botanic Garden to see plants native to the Balearic Islands.
Literary links
Robert Graves, Jules Verne, Josep Pla and Villalonga are among those who have written on and about Mallorca. Their words enhance our views of the places that inspired their writing. With the the app ‘WoW! Literary Majorca’, or the Walking on Words print book, discover Robert Graves’s Deià home Ca n’Alluny, and Can Llobera in Pollença – an important part of the childhood of early-20th-century poet Miquel Costa i Llobera.
Artistic inspiration
The Tramuntana has always attracted artists and people who appreciate art in its various forms. Must-visits for art lovers include CCA Andratx, Can Prunera and Sóller Railway Station in Sóller, and Belmond La Residencia in Deià – which also has a resident sculptor and painter. Galleries and individual art studios abound.
The largest and certainly one of the best contemporary art gallerys on Mallorca. A visit to CCA in Andratx is a ‘must’ for all cultural lovers visiting Mallorca. […] CCA Cultural Centre Andratx
Remote restaurants
Escape the crowds and eat out in a rural Tramuntana setting. Hideaway Bens d’Avall, perched above the Mediterranean, offers fine-dining cuisine. For hilltop hotel restaurants, visit Ca’s Xorc or the remote Posada del Marques, near Esporles. Famous for paellas, Sa Foradada is reachable only on foot or by boat. Es Guix, near Lluc, boasts a natural swimming pool, and healthy natural food Restaurante Quay, near Esporles, has an attractive garden.
This spectacular north-coast restaurant ticks all the boxes for a memorable eating-out experience: picturesque location, great gastronomy, and warm service. […] Bens d’Avall Restaurant
Ca’s Xorc, one of Mallorca’s most beautiful small hotels, with commanding views of Sóller offer an authentic Mallorcan ambience with delightful cuisine. […] Restaurant Ca’s Xorc in Sóller
Village gems
Fine dining isn’t restricted to Palma and Mallorca’s larger towns. 1661 Cuina de Banyalbufar offers delicious cuisine with a slice of village life. Deià is home to long-time favourite Sebastian, and Michelin-starred Es Racó d’es Teix. Given notice, the hilltop Valldemossa Hotel & Restaurant will prepare cuisine for vegan diners.
German chef Josef Sauerschell’s cuisine has been recognised by Michelin at two separate establishments. abcMallorca dined at the restaurant he’s owned since the summer of 2000. […] Restaurant Es Racó d’es Teix, Deià
Linger in luxury
Wake up to the beauty of the Tramuntana by staying in a sumptuous hotel. Enjoy sea and mountain views from your room at the 5-star Jumeirah Port Soller or stylish Hotel Espléndido in Port de Sóller. Hide away at romantic La Posada del Marques, or hilltop Ca’s Xorc. Deià’s renowned Belmond La Residencia offers luxury in spades, and stylish Son Brull, in the Pollença countryside, is a haven of tranquillity.
Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa is a luxury five star hotel on the first line, offering an excellent restauant, spa facility and lots more. Reserve you holiday now! […] Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa
An exclusive hotels in the northwest of Mallorca in Deià is one of the most beautiful hotels on Mallorca offering excellent accommodation, a restaurant and spa. Highly recommended! […] Belmond La Residencia Hotel & Spa
Grape expectations
Despite what may appear to be a challenging terrain and winter climate, this region has quite a few bodegas – some producing wine designated ‘Vi de la Serra de Tramuntana-Costa Nord’. Wineries include Ca’n Pico, Son Puig, Son Vives, Es Verger, Tomeu Isern, Mortitx, Can Vidalet, Can Axartell, and Xaloc. The highly prized Malvasia grape variety is used in a number of wines from the Tramuntana, particularly in the Banyalbufar area.
A breathtakingly beautiful towns on the west coast of Mallorca, Banyalbufar is known for its hundreds of steep terraces dropping to the sea, home of the Malvasia grape and its laidback nature. […] Banyalbufar
Olive gold
Many of the thousands of olive trees at Son Moragues are as much as six hundred years old. The rich history of this Valldemossa estate spans 700 years, and visiting gives a fascinating look into both its past incarnations and its present-day status as a large ecological finca producing sublime olive oil, fresh produce and organic jams.
The Valldemossa estate of Son Moragues produces heaven-sent olive oil based on sustainable, organic-certified farming methods. […] Son Moragues
Brew crews
Several craft beer enthusiasts have set up their own micro-breweries on Mallorca in recent years. In the Tramuntana, Sullerica is located in Sóller, and Cas Cerveser in Puigpunyent – the village that hosts an annual artisan beer fair in the autumn.
The wild side
The mountains and cliffs are the natural habitat of significant wildlife, such as the unique Mallorcan midwife toad, lizards, wild goats, small mammals, and raptors – including the world’s only island population of black vultures. The Mediterranean Wildlife Conservation Centre (HQ of the Vulture Conservation Foundation) at Campanet offers birdwatching excursions.
Explore the magical caves, wells and natural springs of sleepy Campanet with our abcMallorca guide to this little town in undiscovered north Mallorca. […] Campanet
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