Explore Mallorca’s Breathtaking Trails and Scenic Hikes
Take a Walk Around Mallorca's Most Beautiful Landscapes
The most breathtaking hiking trails in Mallorca span the rugged mountains of the Tramuntana range as well as postcard-worthy Mediterranean beaches and should be on every hiker’s bucket list. The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca is an improbably photogenic place replete with nature trails leading past stony shores, through pine forests, up craggy limestone mountains, and even into vast stretches of wetlands.
Every path seems to lead somewhere interesting: a summit with a panoramic view, an old village visited by a famous painter, an archduke’s favorite lookout point, even a castle. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a short, easy stroll or an experienced hiker seeking a rewarding challenge, you’ll have an abundance of great options to choose from.
1. Puig de Ferrutx
Sunny peak with panoramic views of the sea
Good for: Adventure, Photo
The Puig de Ferrutx, near Artà in northern Mallorca, is an out-and-back hike with jaw-dropping views of the Serra de Llevant mountains and Mediterranean Sea. Follow a zigzagging trail with wide open views, and only occasional bouts of shade, from the Hermitage of Betlem and up to the mountain peak. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, wild donkeys, gulls, or vultures on your way there and back again.
Considered moderately challenging, the trail is 10 km long in total and takes roughly 4 hours to complete. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction as the path is rocky and somewhat overgrown in places, with a bit of a scramble towards the top.
Location: 07579, Balearic Islands, Spain
Puig de Ferrutx
2. Puig de sa Rateta
Challenging but rewarding mountain ascent for the wild at heart
Good for: Adventure, Photo
The twin-peaked Puig de sa Rateta overlooks the Embalse de Cúber reservoir, looming over multiple trails winding through the rocky terrain. None are for the faint of heart, but all offer breathtaking views in return. A favorite among them begins at the reservoir and climbs up counterclockwise through the mountains before returning via GR221.
Goats and songbirds are a common sight among the fragrant rosemary and mountain thyme. This route is 12 km at its longest, but shortcuts are possible on clear days. Expect a few scrambles and bring a flashlight for the tunnels. The trail is sparsely marked by cairns, when it is marked at all, so print or download a map ahead of time.
Location: 07349, Balearic Islands, Spain
Puig de sa Rateta
3. Cami de sa Volta des General
Cliffside path with coastal views and quiet coves
Good for: Adventure, Couples
If the sea is calling your name, few routes are quite as scenic as the Camí de Sa Volta des General snaking along the Mediterranean coastline. Take time to enjoy the cool shade of the pine forest as well as unforgettable ocean views from atop Mallorca’s brilliant red cliffs as you head toward the humble village of Port des Canonge.
It’s a relatively gentle route, just over 8 km long, a little rocky but with no steep inclines or scrambles. The serene Playa de Son Bunyola beach awaits you at the end of your journey, but if the call of the sea is too strong, swim in the crystal-blue waters of the smaller coves you’ll find en route.
Location: Ma-10, 07191 Banyalbufar, Illes Balears, Spain
Cami de sa Volta des General
4. The Natural Park of s’Albufera
A walk through wetlands rich with wildlife
Good for: Adventure, Unusual
The Natural Park of s’Albufera encompasses the iconic wetlands of the Balearic Islands; for a full tour of the area, take the Camí d’Enmig - Ses Puntes trail. At 13.5 km long, this trail is the longest but also lets you explore a little bit of everything the park has to offer. An easy amble, it provides sweeping views of not only the wetlands but also forests, beaches, and open skies.
Birders will especially enjoy this hike; keep an eye out for egrets, ospreys, falcons, and even flamingos, depending on the time of year. For a better view, take your binoculars up to the top of the observation tower, and for faster traversal, feel free to bring a bicycle instead.
Location: Av. de s’Albufera, 07458, Illes Balears, Spain
Open: Daily from 9 am to 6 pm
Phone: +34 971 89 22 50
The Natural Park of s'Albufera
5. Camí de Bóquer
Sunny coastal path leading to a snorkeler’s paradise
Good for: Adventure, Unusual
Experiencing the Camí de Bóquer trail in the Serra de Tramuntana is equally about the journey and the destination. This moderate-difficulty coastal hike from Port de Pollença to the Cala Bóquer cove is sunny and rocky, with a steep descent to the beach. However, it’s relatively short, and you’ll be treated to striking views of both sea and mountains, including a dramatic reveal of the cove’s sparkling turquoise waters at the end.
The cool, clear ocean and rocky outcroppings make Cala Bóquer a great place to swim or snorkel. If you bring a picnic, keep food close and containers closed whenever possible; the goats are friendly, but greedy. Do note that the cove is also a popular nudist beach.
Location: 07460 Pollença, Balearic Islands, Spain
Camí de Bóquer
6. Puig de Massanella
The highest reachable summit on the island
Good for: Adventure, History
If you crave a challenge, Puig de Massanella is the highest mountain peak in Mallorca after Puig Major, which is inaccessible to the public. There are many trails to follow alone or with a guided tour, all ranging from moderate to highly technical, but the panoramic view of the island from the summit is nothing short of breathtaking.
A popular route begins and ends at the Santuari de Lluc, a majestic 13th-century monastery with a museum, garden, and more to explore. The trail winds through both shady forest areas and open terrain; be prepared to jump, crawl, and climb over rocky areas, including a boulder field. Bring cash as some routes cross private property that require a fee to pass through.
Location: 07315, Balearic Islands, Spain
Puig de Massanella
7. Camí dels Pintors
A real-life “artist’s way” with picturesque views of the mountains and sea
Good for: Adventure, Couples, History
Camí dels Pintors, or The Painter’s Way, isn’t just a pretty path; its unparalleled beauty has inspired artists for generations. Follow in the footsteps of master painters and poets such as Joaquín Mir and Robert Graves, marveling at the rugged scenery depicted in their works. To one side glitters the Mediterranean sea, while on the other loom the majestic Serra de Tramuntana mountains.
This rocky cliffside route is moderately difficult, not kid-friendly, but ideal for experienced hikers eager for a magical experience. Venture into Llucalcari, a village where Picasso once stayed, and soak in Es Canyaret cove’s natural spring. Then, head onward to the stony shore of Cala Deià, a small but beloved beach with food and trinket vendors nearby.
Location: Cami Son Bujosa, 11, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, Spain
Camí dels Pintors
8. Castell de Bellver
Gorgeous Gothic castle atop a wooded hill
Good for: Adventure, Families, Unusual
Castell de Bellver is literally a castle with “a lovely view” as its name suggests, whether you’re looking up at it or out from it. Situated atop a hill west of Palma, this majestic round castle, the only one in Spain, rises out of a sea of pines like something from a fairytale.
Reach the castle via one of two routes: a shady 4.5-km trail that loops through the Bosc de Bellver forest, or a slightly more difficult 9-km loop from the Moll de la Llotja, passing through the woods, port, and a few urban neighborhoods along the way. Both are beginner-friendly, though signage may be scarce at times, so print out a trail map in advance.
Location: Carrer Castell de Bellver, 19, Ponent, 07014 Palma, Illes Balears, Spain
Phone: +34 971 73 50 65
Castell de Bellver
9. Camí de S’Arxiduc
Commissioned by royalty but free for all to enjoy
Good for: Adventure, Photo
The Camí de S’Arxiduc, or Path of the Archduke, is one of the most scenic trails in Mallorca by design. A looping bridle path starting and ending in Valldemossa, it was commissioned by Archduke Ludwig Salvator in the 19th century, specifically to enjoy the best possible views.
Follow the trail through woods, past seaside cliffs, and along the mountains; be prepared for a few steep inclines and a descent down a gravel road. Keep a camera handy for literal photo ops; the archduke had viewpoints like the Mirador de Can Costa built along the way to show off to his guests. Note that the main ascent requires a free permit; alternatively, follow the slightly rougher Camí de ses Basses instead.
Location: Ma-10, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, Spain
Camí de S'Arxiduc
10. Puig des Tossals Verds
A moderately challenging ascent with a refuge to rest at midway
Good for: Adventure, Photo
The path up to the Puig des Tossals Verds summit is well-marked and much-loved, taking hikers past the iconic Cúber Reservoir and into the Tramuntana Mountains. Glance up and, soaring above the mountains on either side of you, you might spot a rare griffon vulture; look around and you’ll be treated to scenic olive groves, oak forests, gaping gorges, and historic snow pits.
Following the main trail counterclockwise makes for a rockier start but gets several dark tunnels and a scramble over with early on, allowing you to enjoy a gentler amble through the woods the rest of the way. Halfway, stop at the peaceful Refugi Tossals Verds to grab a bite and rest before continuing your journey.
Location: 07315 Escorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
Puig des Tossals Verds
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