"Sa Travessa”, much more than hiking

A 164 km route explores the rich landscape and cultural heritage of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains

The “Ruta de Pedra en Sec” GR 221, known as “Sa Travessa”, runs from one end of the Serra de Tramuntana to the other, from Port d’Andratx to Port de Pollença. A group of seasoned hikers -Alejandro Sánchez, Dani and Mario Barros, David Escobar, Miquel Estelric and Juan Cañas- set out to do it in just four stages during Easter. This has been their adventure.

Along 164 signposted kilometres, those who dare to take on such a challenge discover the unique landscapes of “pedra en sec” of this precious corner of the Mallorcan geography. Good footwear, physical preparation and favourable weather conditions are a prerequisite to enjoy the experience to the full.

The path often runs along the coast – something that makes it unique – and combines holm oak woods and scrubland – the island’s characteristic vegetation – with historical remains and buildings of great ethnological value. All of this under the watchful eye of the osprey, the feral goat and the genet, typical specimens of the area that prowl the refuges where it is possible to stay. “Sa Travessa” allows hikers to approach the highest peaks of the Serra – the Coll de ses Cases de Neu, at more than 1,200 m high, is the highest point – and to immerse themselves in the customs, traditions and gastronomy of the most beautiful villages in Mallorca.