Much of Majorca is protected, and the island offers hiking, cycling and nature all year, especially in spring and autumn.
The Serra de Tramuntana
The mountain range running about 90 km along the north-west coast has been a UNESCO cultural landscape since 2011, for its dry-stone terraces, Moorish irrigation systems, olive groves and villages built over centuries of work. The highest peak is Puig Major (1,445 m), a military zone. Experiences not to miss:
- the GR 221, the "dry-stone route", crossing the range from Port d'Andratx to Pollença in eight or nine stages, with refuges;
- the Torrent de Pareis, a spectacular gorge emerging at Sa Calobra, walkable only by experienced hikers and when there has been no rain;
- the Cúber and Gorg Blau reservoirs, the climb up Puig de Massanella and the sanctuary of Lluc, the island's spiritual centre;
- the villages of Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller, Fornalutx and Orient.
The Sóller train, a 1912 wooden train, links Palma and Sóller through the mountains and continues by tram to Port de Sóller.
Other protected areas
- Cap de Formentor, the northern peninsula, with cliffs, viewpoints such as Mirador Es Colomer and the lighthouse.
- S'Albufera Natural Park, the Balearics' largest wetland, near Alcúdia, a birdwatching paradise with hundreds of species.
- Mondragó Natural Park, with coves and dunes, and the Llevant Peninsula, near Artà.
- Cabrera Archipelago National Park, south of the island, reached by boat from Colònia de Sant Jordi, with exceptional seabeds, a castle and a blue grotto.
- The salt flats and beach of Es Trenc.
Sport
Majorca is a favourite with cyclists, including many professionals who train in spring on Tramuntana climbs such as Sa Calobra. Climbing, kayaking, sailing and diving are also popular. See also the caves and beaches.