This one-week walking trip concentrates on the rugged Tramuntana range which rises dramatically out of the plains then plunges steeply into the sea. We travel on foot on ancient pathways, first of all along the coast then up and through the backbone of this beautiful island. Scenery aside, there are traditional towns and villages to explore along with monasteries and a spectacular railway journey.

Soller & the rugged coast
From Palma we take the old railway across the plains before crossing the mountains to the delightful town of Port de Soller. This is our base for 2 days - we visit Deia and follow the paths along the coast. On our second day we make our first foray into the Serra de Tramuntana and walk down from Cuber Lake.

Across the Tramuntana
Our path threads on up through the mountains and we take the trail via Gorg Blau to Lluc, set amongst awe-inspiring peaks. One of the highlights of our trip is to stay in the still working monastery with the option to hike up Puig Tomir (weather permitting) for panoramic views or to take an easier route on the pilgrims trail through the valley woodlands to Caimari, starting below rocky peaks and descending into the fertile plains.

Formento Peninsula
From Lluc, the old merchants' route winds out of the mountains, with views of forests and eventually the sea and descends to the atmospheric 18th century town of Pollenca and its fascinating back streets. We continue to the coast where we have a chance to walk to the pine-clad northern coast, explore the Formentor peninsula by bike or to take it easy, beachcomb and relax on the nearby beaches.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Palma airport; train to Port de Soller. 2 In Soller; walk to Deia (5hrs). 3 Bus to Cuber Lake; Walk to Soller (5hrs). 4 Bus to Cuber Lake; walk to Lluc (7hrs). 5 In Lluc; optional walks. 6 Walk to Pollenca (6hrs); taxi to Port de Pollenca. 7 In Port de Pollenca; optional walks, beachcombing. 8 Bus to Palma where tour ends.

Accommodation: 5nts hotel, 2nts monastery; 7 breakfasts included.
Transport: Bus/On foot/Train/Tram.
Comment: The Serra de Tramuntana range offers some of the Mediterranean's finest mountain scenery and is a world away from the crowded Costas. We visit the island in autumn and spring when the weather is at its kindest. Walking is graded as moderate, with the possibility to opt out of any day's activity. Luggage is transported between hotels, so you can walk unencumbered.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader, driver(s) plus luggage vehicle.
Trip Reference: OL