Walking Routes In
Mallorca
There are a number of delightful walks which can be undertaken on the island. These vary from short, gentle strolls to arduous full day treks. There are several books with maps indicating the walks in Mallorca.
When walking, always remember that much of the land is in private hands and several landowners do try to discourage walkers by posting forbidding ‘private/privado’ signs. If you do meet a landowner do tell him/her where you are going.
Some Suggested Excursions On Foot
Pollença To Puig De Maria And The Calvary Steps (approx. 7 km)
You will find the signpost for Puig de Maria near Km 52 on the main road from Palma to Pollença, Ma-2200. The ascent takes about 1 hour to 1½ hours. The Sanctuary, 333 metres above sea level, is set on an isolated hill that dominates the Bays of Pollença and Alcúdia, and comprises a monastery, predominantly Gothic in style, a refectory, a tower and walls dating from the 14th and 15th centuries.
You can lunch in the Sanctuary, before returning to Pollença to stroll across the town, following the signposts from the Plaça Major to the foot of the 365 steps, bordered by cypress trees that lead to the Oratory of the Calvari with views over the town. An excursion of approx. 4 hours.
Port De Pollença To The Bóquer Valley
A very popular spot for ornithologists, the Bóquer Valley leads to a small pebbled cove. In Port de Pollença, from the aeroplane roundabout, take the road towards Formentor, Ma-2200. At the 2nd roundabout along this road, take the 4th exit up a lane marked as Camí de Cala Bóquer – you can park here, if need be. Head uphill towards the old farmhouse and go through the courtyard and gate (please close after you), then turn up towards the old wooden gate and follow the paths to the pebbled cove.
Pollença To Lluc
This route runs between the Municipality of Pollença and the Sanctuary of Lluc and is classified as a ‘long route’. At Km 5.3 on the Pollença-Lluc road (Ma-10), turn left and follow the asphalt road until the asphalt ends and the ascent begins, a distance of 20 km which can be covered in a little more than five hours. The road is good, although very steep in places. It is surrounded by mountains where you can see many features of local Mallorcan ingenuity such as the dry-stone walls, springs, water channels and places where charcoal was made. At Lluc you can visit the Pilgrims’ Square where you will see the typical 16th century entrances and the basilica dating from the 17th century, with its statue of Our Lady known as La Moreneta or the Virgin of Lluc.
Alcúdia To The Victòria Hermitage
At the very beginning of the road from Alcúdia to the port, you will see a small road to the left that leads to Mal Pas. Walk alongside the sea until you reach the ascent to the Ermita de la Victòria. Once there you can enjoy the extensive views of Pollença Bay and the Formentor Peninsula, lunch in the hermitage and later, on your return journey, pause to swim at one of the small coves or beaches. If you leave your car at the foot of the hill up to the hermitage, it is only a 15-minute walk away. Later you can return to Alcúdia and admire the old town walls and the Roman remains of the ancient town of Pol.lèntia.
Artà To Betlem Hermitage (18 km)
You can reach the hermitage, founded in 1800, by taking the road going from Artà to the Ermita de Betlem, passing the high walls of the ancient fortress of Artà, the walled buildings of Ca’n Morell and going through the pass between Puig dels Coloms and the Collado de Sa Font Crutia- it is a walk of some 2 hours.
Behind the hermitage, a path leads to a hill with a mirador (viewpoint) overlooking Alcúdia Bay, the peninsula of the same name and its watchtower, Cap Ferrutx with the Morell watchtower, Ca’n Picafort and, at the foot of the hill, Colònia de Sant Pere. On returning it is worth going through Font de Binialgorta, where there is a cave with the statue of Our Lady. If you still have time, we suggest you visit the prehistoric settlement of Ses Païsses.
Capdepera To Cala Rajada Lighthouse (approx. 6 km)
While in Capdepera, visit its castle before you set off on this 2 km walk to Cala Rajada, which is no more than just a gentle stroll. After visiting the lighthouse, enjoy a swim from any one of the nearby beaches. The return to Capdepera can be made by bus.
Felanitx To Sant Salvador (12 km)
Follow the road from Felanitx to Portocolom for about 2 km and you will find the road leading to Sant Salvador on the right. The effort involved in making the ascent to the sanctuary will be amply rewarded by the stunning views over the coast of Mallorca, from the island of Cabrera to Alcúdia Bay.
You can have lunch in the monastery, or if you wish, you can continue on to Santueri Castle, following the well-signposted path, or you can return directly to Felanitx, from the castle, without having to go through Sant Salvador. This is a 12 km excursion (excluding the visit to the sanctuary).