Trekking in Mallorca

Guidebook to hiking the GR221 Drystone Route (Ruta de Pedra en Sec) traversing Mallorca's Serra de Tramuntana between Pollença and Andratx. Following rock, paved paths and mule tracks between welcoming villages, the 140km (87 mile) trek is described in 10 day stages and showcases the island's forests, mountains and drystone structures.

The GR221 long-distance trail through northwestern Mallorca, from Port d'Andratx to Pollença is also known as the 'Ruta de Pedra en Sec' ('the Drystone Route'), the GR221 is a celebration of Mallorca's limestone heritage, taking in many historic drystone structures as it traverses the rocky peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana. Following old stone-paved paths and mule trails, it showcases the region's beautiful landscape of mountains, forests and cultivated terraces, as well as its spectacular coastline. 

The GR221 can be hiked in 1-2 weeks, although the guide also covers 3 alternative start-points and 3 alternative finishes, which would allow for a shorter trek. The main route is presented in 10 stages of 8.5-20.5km (5-13 miles), with a handful of optional detours to bag neighbouring summits. Detailed route description is accompanied by 1:25,000 mapping and inspirational photography, plus a wealth of information on local points of interest. Accommodation and travel are also thoroughly covered: the trail boasts good transport links and plentiful facilities on route, with accommodation in welcoming mountain villages and the occasional 'refugi'. A comprehensive introduction offers the opportunity to discover more about the region's diverse plants and wildlife and unique history and culture, and an English-Spanish-Catalan glossary can be found in the appendix.

With a favourable climate and stunning scenery, the Serra de Tramuntana has much to tempt the hiker. The GR221 Drystone Route represents an ideal way to explore this fascinating World Heritage Site.

Paddy Dillon

Paddy Dillon is a prolific outdoor writer with over 60 guidebooks to his name, as well as more than a dozen booklets and brochures. He writes for a number of outdoor magazines and other publications, and produces material for tourism groups and other organisations. He lives near the Lake District and has walked in every county in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales; writing about walks in every one of them. He has led guided walks and walked extensively in Europe, as well as in Nepal, Tibet, Africa and the Rocky Mountains of Canada and the US.