The Balearic island of Mallorca is renowned for its beaches as well as its high-energy party and upscale nightlife scene, but it also offers epic hikes. In fact, Travel + Leisure just shared the news that family-owned tour company Island Hopping named it the No. 1 island in all of Europe for hiking.
To determine the rankings, it analyzed islands across Europe for their number and quality of trails, factoring in safety, climate conditions, accessibility, and the average length of trails on each. The number of online searches for trails and average nightly room rates were taken into consideration as well.
The top four islands on the list all had 500 hiking trails, but Mallorca stood out among the rest with its spectacular natural parks, stunning seaside views, unique cultural and historical heritage, and Mediterranean climate, bringing over 300 days of sunshine a year.
Hiking Diverse & Dramatic Landscapes
Mallorca has a wide variety of trails, from coastal paths to mountain climbs. Visitors can hike along seaside cliffs, through pine forests, lush valleys, and into the Serra de Tramuntana Mountains, known for its charming mountain villages. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this range is the backbone for many of the island’s best hikes.
Some of the top treks start from Cuber Reservoir, including the flat and easy 2.85-mile loop trail that winds around it, showcasing Tramuntana mountain views. If you want to combine history with panoramic views, consider the Castell d’Alaro hike. Covering 3.4 miles, the moderate hike ascends 954 feet, leading to the castle ruin. At its highest point, you’ll have a view of the Sierra de Tramontana, the town of Alaro, and the Mediterranean.
Camí de l’Arxiduc (the Archduke’s Path) traverses seven miles with some of Mallorca’s most iconic sea and mountain views, while the Mondragó Natural Park Coastal Path is a great option for a more relaxed hike. It winds through pine forests, leading to sheltered coves and beaches.
Beach Time
After any hike, you’ll find dozens of beautiful beaches to relax on. Playa de Muro, along the island’s northeast coast, is the largest, offering fine golden sand and calm, shallow waters ideal for families with children. It includes a mix of more tranquil areas for relaxation and lively spots with loungers, water sports facilities, and beachfront eateries. There are no facilities at unspoiled Cala Torta, a hidden paradise ideal for romance-seeking couples, with a sweep of white sands lapped by brilliant turquoise water.
Near the city of Palma, Playa de Palma is a long, lively span fringed by palms and a seafront promenade with shops, cafes, and restaurants. By day, it attracts all types of beachgoers for swimming and water sports. After dark, it becomes a popular clubbing destination.
