You know what it feels like when you get to the top of a mountain. Take a deep breath and surrender to the breathtaking panoramic view. Mallorca offers many extraordinary hiking tours, most of them in the Tramuntana mountains along the Northwestern coast of the island. Who wouldn’t love the proximity of mountains and sea, the blue sky merging with the Mediterranean on the horizon. If you want to make the most of it, these tours are among the best Tramuntana hikes.

1. Galatzó

The signature mountain of the southern Tramuntana is a landmark and a classic hike for locals and visitors alike. You can choose between different ascents and get a clambering bonus on the last stretch to the top. From where you can overlook the whole area. At the foot of the Galatzó there is also an easy walking-tour across the protected grounds of the public Finca Galatzó. A great destination for a picnic with family and friends.

2. Cap Fabioler

Still somewhat off the beaten track is the hike to Cap Fabioler. The trail offers amazing views of the west coast near Andratx. From the Mirador d’en Josep Sastre the cliffs break off vertically more than 400 meters into the sea, with a fascinating vista of the whole Dragonera island. An easy hike, yet you may feel like an explorer in this rough landscape that looks so different from the familiar picture postcard Mallorca.

3. Cornador Gran

Looking up at the Sóller mountain ridge it is hard to imagine how you can ever climb Es Cornadors. The mountain top is a steep rocky triangle that seems rather unaccessible. But the panorama of the surrounding highest Tramuntana mountains is stunning. In the distance the orange valley of Sóller and the Mediterranean blend in with the sky. Standing here makes you humble and pride at the same time.

4. Barranc de Biniaraix

The hike from Cúber to Sóller connects two most beautiful places on Mallorca. Leaving the aquamarin water reservoir and the pointed shape of the Puig de L’Ofre behind we start the descent down the marvelous canyon, the Barranc de Biniaraix. Soon the track turns into a cobbled path that leads past steep ravines and along beautifully terraced slopes and olive groves. If you’re hiking in early spring, don’t miss the waterfalls just a few steps from the main route.

5. Tossals Verds

Another fabulous route starting at the Cúber water reservoir goes counterclockwise around Puig de Tossals Verds. The gorge leading almost all the way down to Alaró always reminds me of La Gomera and its steep barrancos, the island where I discovered my love of hiking. The tour leads across steep and rocky terrain, with a halfway stop at the refugi. Sitting on the terrace I marvel at Puig d’Alaró and swap stories with other hikers coming from Lluc, Orient or Sóller.

6. Castell d’Alaró

There are several ways leading up to the Castell d’Alaró. I love to start the hike in Orient. A narrow trail nicely meanders through a grove of ancient olive trees inhabited by friendly sheep. Later on a cobbled path with beautiful vistas leads you all the way up to the ruins of the legendary castle. A place in the shade in front of the refugi, a coffee and a piece of cake with the island to your feet is all you could ever want.

7. Massanella

The twin peak mountain next to Puig Major is the highest summit on the island that is freely accessible. An exciting, varied way up rewards you with a stunning 360-degree view. The major mountains of the Tramuntana, Mallorca’s water reservoir Cúber and the endless Mediterranean to one side. And the wide lowlands to the other. On a clear and sunny day, the Massanella even allows a glimpse of Menorca and Ibiza.

8. Lluc

The monastery of Lluc is a popular destination. But it’s also the perfect starting point for some of the best Tramuntana hikes. Beautiful circular tracks through shaded holm oak forest. And into the unique landscape of the Tramuntana which has been declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO, ten years ago. Walk along cobbled paths, abandoned charcoal burners sites, and fantastic rock formations that make you feel like a dwarf in the land of giants.

9. Torrent de Pareis

The most challenging hike on Mallorca is the crossing of the Torrent de Pareis. Past huge rocks and massive boulder fields, through needle’s eyes. While it seems to be easy to follow the direction you definitely need some experience or a local guide in order to get the hang of it. The island’s grand canyon leads from 620 meters above sea level all the way down to the stunning bay of Sa Calobra. Where you can treat yourself with a swim and a lovely boat ride to Port de Sóller.

10. Talaia d’Alcudia

Joan Bennàssar once introduced me to the Talaia d’Alcúdia. My favorite hike here is the circular route across the Victória peninsula. Down and up steep ravines with more breathtaking views all along. On a clear day you can spot Menorca in the distance. And Platja des Coll Baix, a beautiful secluded beach at the end of the world, offers a great opportunity to go for a swim. What else could you want of a hike?

If you cannot decide on one of the best Tramuntana hikes, you may as well hike the entire mountain range. The marked trail GR 221 leads from Andratx to Pollença and connects the highlights of the Tramuntana. The best place to spend the night is in the refugis where you can also have a simple meal. Do not forget to book in advance.

And if you fancy a little walk but aren’t up to trekking and climbing, there are also many easy tours. Like the hike from Port d‘Andratx to Sant Elm, or the Camí des Correu from Esporles to Banyalbufar. And last but not least a few terrific coastal hikes.