I have spent many holidays in Majorca and despite its sun and beach holiday reputation it is one of the most peacefiul and scenic walking destinations I know. The island is full of hills and mountains on its Northern coast and numerous mule trails and footpaths thread through the hills connecting villages with each other and with the sea. Even in busy holiday periods these will be largely unfrequented by other holidaymakers although in truth the best walking weather is outside the busy summer months, either Spring time or Autumn.

The main walking centres that I have used are Soller and Pollenca. The former is deep in the heart of the mountains and forms the hub of a network of footpaths while also being a good centre for exploring further afield, thanks to the rapid links to the capital town of Palma. Pollenca is a more traditional holiday centre but again has good transport links to many fine walks around the coast and in the Northern and Eastern mountains.

While I am naturally attracted to the hills there are many lower level walks in the foothills in the centre of the island and around the coast. There is also a fabulous nature park at the foot of Galatzo mountain, and while a climb to the summit is a major walk, the marked nature trail is both scenic and interesting.

Walking from Soller

There are several nice walks around Soller from the very short stroll up to the beautiful quaint village of Formalutz to the more challenging mule trail from Valledemosa down to Soller. The latter passes through that well known hideaway of the rich and famous, Deia. You might just spot Sting or Robbie Williams or a host of other A-List celebrities who stay at the luxurious hotels and villas surrounding the town.

Walking around Pollenca

Pollenca provides access to mountain tracks around Lluc monastry and also several hidden valleys leading down to isolated caves and coves. In addition there are many rare species hiding in these remote valleys and you might spot the Mallorcan Vulture or some other unique creature.

There is also a lot of history associated with this part of the island and several walks lead to old abandoned look-out stations, some of which still have remains of cannon and other military memorobilia lying around. A reminder that in earlier times Majorca was of significant strategic importance as a Mediterranian island port.