Many people think of long sandy beaches when they come to Mallorca. No doubt about that. But there is something I love just as much: a hike along the mountainous coastline. With an endless blue sea, wild ragged cliffs and the spicy scent of the pine trees that mingles with the salty air. Whether in Liguria, on the Côte d’Azur or on the Balearic Islands, for me that’s the essence of the Mediterranean. In the Tramuntana there are numerous paths leading along the picturesque rocky coast.

Rather than going out and back on the same trail I prefer loop hikes. Like the Camí dels Pintors from Deià to Llucalcari. The easy hike offers some breathtaking vistas that inspired many local painters. It starts with a walk down to scenic Cala Deià. The popular restaurant up on the cliff was the backdrop of a dramatic scene in the BBC series The Night Manager. In the early morning sun though the small pebble beach is still sleepy. 

I could stay here all day had I not just started my trip. So I follow the narrow way up for a view of the iconic Còdols Blancs, the three white rocks. Further on the route holds some beautiful picnic places inviting you to take a break before you get to Llucalcari. The tiny village is one of the most enchanted places on the island. Located on a slope above the sea it only consists of a handful of houses. Here our path meets again with Mallorca’s long distance hiking trail GR 221. You can continue further north towards Béns d’Avall and Sóller. Or take a right for the alternative route leading back to Deià.