Serra de Tramuntana

The Serra de Tramuntana, located on the island of Mallorca, is one of the grandest scenic wonders of the Balearic Islands and it is where the island’s highest mountains are found. This mountain range is the backbone of Mallorca stretching from the northeast to the southeast of the island and also gives its name to the wind that blows down from the mountains. 

Its highest peak is the Puig Mayor, which literally translates as biggest hill, is 1.445 metres high. But as Puig Mayor lies within a military zone, its neighbour Puig de Massenella at 1.364m is considered the highest accessible peak in the Serra de Tramuntana. There are also two beautiful large water reservoirs called Cúber and Gorg Blau, high up in the mountains which keep Mallorca supplied with water.

Geologically the Serra de Tramuntana is considered an extension of the Baetic System which is  made up of multiple mountain ranges that reach from western Andalucía to Murcia, through southern Castilla de la Mancha, and Valencia. The Serra de Tramuntana holds many incredible secrets. So,  we want to tell you a little more about it, plus recommend some  places to put on your must-see list in the Serra de Tramuntana, read on to learn more about them.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Since 2011, the Serra de Tramuntana has been a UNESCO World heritage site, this recognition shows the global importance of this mountain range. The beauty of its peaks and all the precious places that can be found within. 

The Serra de Tramuntana was selected to be a World Heritage site in the category of Natural Landscapes  due  to  the kilometres of "dry stones" paths that transform difficult-to-access areas within the mountains into habitable places, all this while preserving the landscape as beautifully and naturally as possible. 

Since its declaration as a World Heritage Site, Mallorca has put in place a management plan so that this natural landscape can be preserved for future generations to enjoy, where the  actions of the human habitants in conjunction with the beauty of nature work in harmony  to maintain an area of enormous fragility. The main objective of the classification of a protected Nature Area is the conservation of its natural and cultural value. For such purpose, the action plan has divided the area into regulated zones (exclusion, limited use, compatible use, and general use).

 The Villages of the Serra de Tramuntana

Within the Serra de Tramuntana lies almost twenty individual villages that, for many years, have thrived among these mountains of Mallorca. All the towns in the Serra de Tramuntana have the same characteristics. They are small towns with similar architecture, stone houses, narrow winding streets, and a unique atmosphere. 

There are around 115.000 people living  in the Serra de Tramuntana. But thanks to the construction and authorization regulations, the Serra de Tramuntana is protected. That is why it is very difficult to create new homes. This is done so that everything remains in tune with the landscape, and this unique and natural space does not become overcrowded. 

The most visited towns in Mallorca, as well as the most beautiful and authentic, are in the Serra de Tramuntana, such as Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller and Fornalutx, tend to attract the majority of tourist visits, not only from foreign  visitors, but also from the Mallorcans themselves. 

 From the centre of the island, or towns in Mallorca like Alcúdia, you can see a panoramic view of the Serra de Tramuntana, creating a unique  visual landscape. You can observe how the mountains descend down into the sea after kilometres of mountainous landscape, without a doubt, incredible scenery. 

Excursions in the Serra de Tramuntana

In Mallorca there are a variety of excursions, thanks to the combination  of sea and mountains, there are some of beautiful routes in the Sierra de Tramuntana. You can  discover the highest peaks of Mallorca and  reach some of the most hidden coves on the islands; it is one of the things that makes Mallorca even more special.

Ses Fonts Ufanes

Located right next to Campanet, in the Serra de Tramuntana, we find Ses Fonts Ufanes. A unique natural hydrogeological phenomenon. This natural phenomenon occurs when the aquifer beneath Puig Tomir and the surrounding area absorbs too much water and the excess makes its way to the surface, this excess water then gushes out between the rocks in a diffuse, powerful, and sudden way almost appearing to flow uphill. After leaving, the water continues its course to the Albufera de Alcúdia. Taking an excursion through Ses Fonts Ufanes is a unique experience that you cannot miss.

Torrent de Pareis

Another fabulous excursion to do in the Serra de Tramuntana is Torrent de Pareis, a steep, three-kilometre-deep canyon formed by the erosive action of torrential water on the cliffs of the rugged Sierra de Tramuntana Mountain range; this area was declared a natural monument in 2003. The excursion departs from Escorca and ends at Sa Calobra 25.5 kilometres of pure unadulterated nature. But it must be done with someone who knows the trail well and we do not recommend trying it with children, due to its difficulty. However, when you finally get to Sa Calobra, the effort of the excursion is  worth it. The image of the beach surrounded by cliffs is spectacular. In addition, if you make it to the end,  why not take advantage of the good weather in Mallorca  and have a well-deserved refreshing dip in the sea?

The Barranc de Biniaraix

Finally, we recommend one of the best excursions in the Serra de Tramuntana: the Barranc de Biniaraix. It is a circular route where you explore the Serra de Tramuntana on foot and enjoy the flora and fauna of Mallorca. This is an ideal trail to get to know the well-known "dry stone"  paths that made the Serra de Tramuntana a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is an excursion on the coast of Mallorca and is a perfect day out at just 6 kilometres long.

 The Astoria Playa

In Alcúdia, close to the Serra de Tramuntana, we find  the Astoria Playa.  A hotel in Mallorca with all the comforts needed to make your stay  perfect. With two different pools, both with distinctly different atmospheres, where you can enjoy the beautiful weather of Mallorca. 

And with 8 different types of rooms at the hotel to choose from, we're sure you'll find the perfect one for you. You can find comfortable rooms with Bali beds or private Jacuzzis. Without a doubt, the sunlight  rooms, well equipped bathrooms,  and excellent amenities will mean you will not want to leave. 

In addition, for those who like go on excursions in the Serra de Tramuntana and prefer  to do them by bike, Astoria Playa has a Bike Center where you will find everything you need to make your cycling route through the mountains  perfect.

We are waiting for you at Astoria Playa!