GR221 Experience Overview
- Mediterranean coastal magnificence
- Ancient dry stone engineering marvels
- Authentic Mallorcan mountain villages
The GR221, known as the "Ruta de Pedra en Sec" (Dry Stone Route), spans approximately 140 kilometers through the dramatic Serra de Tramuntana mountain range on the Spanish island of Mallorca. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers one of the Mediterranean's most spectacular hiking experiences, combining rugged limestone mountains with sweeping sea views. The trail follows ancient pathways built with traditional dry stone techniques that have been used on the island for centuries, connecting h... Read more
| Hilliness | |
| Start Point | Estellencs |
| End Point | Soller |
| Activity Type | Walking, Hiking, Trail Running |
| Distance | 53km | 33 miles |
| Ascent | 2,100m | 6900ft |
| When to go | March-May, September-November |
| Baggage Transfer | Available |
Custom Adventure Plan: $94.00
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Sample Itinerary
Here's what's on the trail. We'll split the stages to each day just right for your pace.
From Estellencs, the trail climbs steadily through holm oak forests and historic olive estates, with dry stone walls lining much of the route. High above the coastline, hikers are rewarded with spectacular sea views before reaching the 4km high point and descending gradually into Banyalbufar, a charming village with cafes and restaurants.
The next section, from Banyalbufar to Esporles, follows the historic Postman’s Path (Camí des Correu), once the vital mail route between mountain towns. Starting from Banyalbufar’s plaza, the trail ascends eastward with sweeping Mediterranean vistas before entering shaded oak woodland. The beautifully maintained cobbled path showcases traditional Mallorcan stonework, winding past the estate of Son Sanutges and reaching Coll des Pi, the section’s highest point.
From here, the route descends gently into Esporles, a welcoming hub on the GR221. This picturesque village provides hikers with essential services, making it an ideal rest and resupply stop.
The trail from Esporles to Valldemossa leads through the authentic heart of Mallorca’s Serra de Tramuntana. Leaving Esporles, a steady climb follows a gully before joining a paved road, offering views back toward the village and surrounding valleys. The ascent continues on deteriorating tarmac that gradually gives way to rocky paths as you approach Coll de sa Basseta.
From here, two further climbs rise through dense holm oak forest, reaching Sa Comuna at 690m. The terrain can be rocky and slippery in wet conditions, but the effort is rewarded with panoramic viewpoints over the forest and distant coastline. Along the ridgeline, short climbs alternate with flatter stretches, providing natural pauses.
The route then descends through woodland toward Valldemossa, where cafes, bars, and restaurants offer welcome refreshment. This stage combines steady ascents, rugged stone paths, and shaded woodland, showcasing the wild beauty of the Tramuntana mountains.
Leaving Valldemossa’s stone streets, the trail climbs steadily on old mule tracks through Mediterranean woodland, with beautiful views of the village below. As elevation is gained, the forest opens into rocky limestone terrain, where ancient paths lead to lookout points offering sweeping panoramas of both coastlines—the turquoise Mediterranean to the northwest and Palma Bay to the south.
The route continues over Puig Gros (938m) and Es Caragolí (944m), a demanding ascent of nearly 600m. The exposed ridgeline requires care on the rocky paths but rewards hikers with breathtaking 360-degree views across mountains, sea, and Palma Bay.
A steep, sometimes technical descent follows, with centuries-old stone steps leading through shaded holm oak forest. Soon, the village of Deià appears, terracotta roofs clustered around its hillside church. Known as a haven for artists and writers, including poet Robert Graves, Deià retains its reputation as a bohemian retreat, with cafés and restaurants offering welcome rest.
From Deià, the trail descends through ancient olive groves and terraced farmland, with occasional sea views. Passing Es Porch, it winds past citrus orchards before gradually dropping toward the coast. As you near the sea, sweeping views of Port de Sóller’s horseshoe bay and the Cap Gros lighthouse appear. The rocky path includes some steeper downhill stretches before reaching Refugi de Muleta, perched above the bay with superb Mediterranean vistas.
From here, the route follows a road down to Port de Sóller’s beach and lively seafront promenade, lined with cafés and restaurants. Continuing inland, the trail meanders on gentle stone roads through the fertile Sóller Valley, renowned for its citrus orchards, irrigation channels, and traditional fincas. The stage ends in Sóller, a picturesque town of 14,000 residents with a bustling central plaza, historic railway station, weekly markets, and abundant options for food, drink, and accommodation.
How long will it take?
Everyone has a different approach to trails. Here are our suggested times for the GR 221 Experience for different types of adventurers.
Here we have assumed that you will be out on the trail for around 8 hours per day, including regular breaks but not extended lunch stops.
3
Days
For walkers who love the journey as much as the destination.
You enjoy full days on the trail, moving steadily, soaking up the scenery — with plenty of time for food and drink stops along the way!
3
Days
For long-distance walkers who enjoy the challenge of a steady pace over varied terrain.
You’ve got the fitness to cover strong distances over several days — this is where most keen hikers will find themselves.
2
Days
The first of our faster categories — built for those who prioritise pace.
You move quickly with minimal stops, carry just the essentials, and have the fitness to handle long days and tough terrain.
1
Days
Our fastest pace – ideal for those used to ultramarathons.
You mix fast hiking with running on flats and descents, even over mountains. Speed and efficiency matter most, with minimal stops as you aim to complete each route as quickly as possible.
Essential Travel Information
Summer (June-August) brings intense heat (often exceeding 30°C/86°F), water scarcity on remote sections, and crowded villages. Winter hiking (December-February) is possible but carries risks of heavy rainfall, especially in the mountains where flash flooding can occur. The higher sections may experience occasional snow and ice, particularly on north-facing slopes.
Most facilities, including refuges and smaller restaurants in mountain villages, operate from March through October. Some close or offer reduced services during winter months. Weather patterns can bring sudden changes year-round – the Tramuntana wind that gives the mountains their name can produce strong gusts, particularly on exposed ridges.
Accommodation Costs:
- Refuges: €15-25 per person per night
- Budget hotels/guesthouses: €50-80 per room per night
- Mid-range hotels: €80-150 per room per night
- Luxury accommodations (especially in Deià and Valldemossa): €150-300+ per night
Transportation Expenses:
- Airport to Estellencs by public transport: approximately €10
- Soller to Airport by public transport: approximately €12
- Local buses between villages: €3-8 per journey
- Taxi from trailhead to Palma: approximately €60
Food and Supplies:
- Breakfast at local cafés: €5-8
- Set lunch menu (menu del día): €12-18
- Dinner at mid-range restaurants: €20-35 per person
- Self-catering grocery costs: approximately €15-20 per day
- Water refill: free at public fountains in most villages
Additional Fees:
- Museum entries (Valldemossa Monastery, Robert Graves House, etc.): €5-10 each
- Guided tours (optional): €25-60
- Vintage train from Sóller to Palma (optional scenic route): €25 return
Airports/Major Cities:
Palma de Mallorca Airport is the main gateway, located approximately 40km from Estellencs (trailhead) and 25km from Soller (trail end).
Public Transportation:
- From Palma Airport to Estellencs: airport shuttle to Palma, Bus #202 (total journey approximately 1.5 hours)
- From Soller to Palma Airport: Bus #204 to Palma, then airport shuttle (total journey approximately 1.5 hours)
- Circular connections: Bus service connects most major towns on the route (Estellencs, Banyalbufar, Valldemossa, Deià and Sóller), though frequency is limited in smaller villages
Trailhead Access:
The start in Estellence is accessible by bus from Palma. No permits are required to begin hiking.
Evacuation/Bail-out Points:
- Banyalbufar (bus service to Palma)
- Valldemossa (frequent bus service to Palma)
- Deià (bus service to Sóller and Palma)
In emergencies, the Guardia Civil mountain rescue service operates throughout the Serra de Tramuntana. Cell phone coverage is generally good except in deep gorges and remote mountain sections.
The GR221 offers diverse accommodation options, making it more comfortable than many European long-distance trails:
Refuges:
Six official mountain refuges operate along the route (Ses Fontanelles, La Trapa, Muleta, Tossals Verds, Son Amer, and Pont Romà). These basic hostels provide dormitory accommodation, cooking facilities, and sometimes prepared meals. Prices range from €15-25 per night. Advance booking is essential through the Consell de Mallorca website, especially from April to October. Refuges typically require bookings 3-6 months ahead during peak season.
Hotels and Guesthouses:
Most villages offer accommodations ranging from simple pensions to boutique hotels. Smaller villages (Estellencs, Banyalbufar) have limited options (€60-120/night), while larger towns (Sóller, Pollença) offer greater variety (€40-200+/night). Valldemossa and Deià, being popular tourist destinations, have higher average prices.
Monasteries:
Lluc Monastery offers unique accommodation in converted cells (€45-70/night), providing an authentic cultural experience.
Camping:
Wild camping is prohibited throughout the Serra de Tramuntana. The only official campsite near the route is in Port de Sóller, approximately 2km from the main trail.
Popular stopover points include Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller, and Lluc Monastery. These locations offer the best combination of services, cultural interest, and accommodation options. During peak hiking season (April-May, September-October), booking accommodation at least 2-3 months in advance is recommended.
The GR221 has gained significant popularity over the past decade, particularly among European hikers seeking Mediterranean alternatives to Alpine routes. Peak seasons (April-May and September-October) see moderate trail traffic, with most popular sections (Valldemossa-Deià-Sóller) experiencing the highest visitor numbers.
Peak Season Crowding:
- The sections between Valldemossa, Deià, and Sóller can be busy year-round due to day-hikers
- Refuges routinely fill to capacity during spring and autumn weekends
- Popular villages (especially Valldemossa and Deià) can be crowded with tour groups during daytime hours
Quieter Alternatives:
- Hiking midweek rather than weekends reduces encounters with local day-hikers
- Winter months (with appropriate preparation) offer near-solitude, though with weather risks
Cultural Considerations:
- Mallorcan culture combines Catalan and Spanish influences with unique island traditions
- Respect for private property is essential – many trail sections cross working farms and estates
- Water conservation awareness is appreciated – Mallorca faces increasing water scarcity
- Basic Catalan phrases are appreciated by locals, though most speak Spanish and English
Typical Hiker Demographics:
- Predominantly European (German, British, and Scandinavian hikers are most common)
- Broad age range, with strong representation from experienced hikers in the 40-65 age bracket
- Mix of thru-hikers completing the entire route and section-hikers focusing on favorite segments
- Growing popularity among solo hikers due to the route's safety and good facilities
Opportunities for Solitude:
- Early morning starts (before 8am) offer tranquil hiking even on popular sections
- Alternative side-trails and variants can provide more solitude (maps available from local tourism offices)
- Winter hiking offers solitude but requires careful planning for accommodation as many places close
The GR221's unique combination of cultural richness, natural beauty, and good infrastructure makes it an excellent introduction to Mediterranean long-distance hiking, striking a balance between comfort and adventure that few other European trails can match.
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