Hiking in Mallorca is more exciting than ever this autumn: the GR-221, the legendary "dry stone wall route" through the Tramuntana, has been recognized in its entirety as an official long-distance hiking trail. This route, which has been combining stories, traditions and a wildly romantic landscape for decades, is now one of the few "GR" routes in Spain - and rightly so!
The route - from La Trapa to Port de Pollença
The GR-221 stretches from La Trapa in the southwest to the port of Port de Pollença in the north. Eight stages and a total of 137 kilometers full of adventure and natural beauty await hikers on this trail. The route leads through deep gorges, over barren mountains and along impressive dry stone walls that characterize the Mallorcan landscape. From the mountains above Banyalbufar and Esporles to the views at the Cúber reservoir and the finale in Port de Pollença - each stage has its own charm and allows you to experience the beauty of the Serra de Tramuntana in all its glory.
The stages at a glance:
- La Trapa - Coma d'en Vidal
- Coma d'en Vidal - Esporles
- Esporles - Can Boi
- Can Boi - Muleta
- Muleta - Tossals Verds
- Tossals Verds - Son Amer
- Son Amer - Pont Romà
- Pont Romà - Port de Pollença
Those who master all this will cross deep gorges, pass ancient holm oak forests and experience nature in all its diversity. Not only the locals, but also visitors rave about the route - especially now that all stages are officially signposted and safe to pass.
Hostels for hikers
The route offers easy but comfortable Hostels - the so-called refugios - where hikers can rest and recharge their batteries. At around 14 euros for an overnight stay and optional breakfast or dinner, the refugios are an inexpensive way to hike the GR-221. Bed linen, towels and simple meals can be booked for a small extra charge. An ideal way to experience the Tramuntana off the beaten track and feel the closeness to nature of the Mallorcans.
Planning and history of the GR-221
The GR-221 is the result of years of work and dedication, initiated by the island's government and supported by the Balearic Mountain Sports Association FEBME. The origins of the project date back to the 1990s, when the idea arose to restore old, forgotten paths in the Tramuntana. In 1999, the island council decided to officially design the path as a long-distance hiking route. Since then, restored sections have been opened in stages and are now fully completed and recognized.
Hiking trails for everyone: including the GR-222 and GR-226
In addition to the GR-221, Mallorca also has the GR-222which leads from Lluc to Artà, and the planned GR-226 East Mallorca - a new project that will connect the east of the island with a 105-kilometre route from Cala Mesquida to Son Macià through the Llevant. The diversity and commitment to sustainable tourism on Mallorca can be seen in these hiking trails, which allow everyone to experience the island's nature and traditions away from the beaches.
A must for nature lovers
Walking along the GR-221 is not only a dream come true for nature lovers, but also a journey back in time to the history of Mallorca. The dry stone walls that line the route bear witness to the centuries-old traditions of the island's inhabitants. And those who embark on this adventure can rest assured: The GR-221 will immerse you deeper into the wild and pristine beauty of Mallorca with every step.
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